What are the advantages of using faux stone versus real stone on a patio?

The biggest difference between real stone and a concrete surface that has been stamped, stained or overlaid to look like stone is the price.

You could spend as much as $8 to $15 per square foot on real flagstone, for instance, while a textured concrete, faux flagstone floor might run as little as $5 to $7. Also, faux stone:

• Doesn’t stain as easily as real stone.
• Won’t flake like some stones, which are formed in layers.
• Has no grout, so you don’t have to deal with crumbling or discoloring.
• Maintains its color longer if properly sealed.
• Holds up a little better around pool water.