Wet Cast vs Dry Cast

There are two main types of concrete pavers, wet cast and dry cast. The biggest difference between the two is the manufacturing process through which they are created. Wet cast concrete, as its name suggests, has a wetter, more liquid consistency, or what is referred to as ‘slump’ – the state of concrete before it is cured. 

The term, derived from how the concrete holds its form following the removal of the mould – or how it ‘slumps’, then determines the type of product it can produce. 

Concrete with a high slump is inherently more pourable and is often the product you see being transported by mixing trucks. Concrete with low or no slump is therefore the opposite, holding its shape immediately after the mould is removed.  

About wet cast pavers

Wet cast pavers contain a higher water content in the uncured mix and therefore a high slump. These products are created by pouring the mix into a mould, where it is then vibrated to release air bubbles. After a specified amount of time to allow for the curing or hardening of the mix, the mould is removed, resulting in a paver that provides endless design options. 

Due to the more labour-intensive production of wet cast pavers, they generally sit at a higher price point, yet offer significantly more variety when it comes to sizing, colour and decorative surface pattern styles. Because of this versatility and natural stain-resistant qualities, wet cast pavers can suit any design style as well as both indoor and outdoor applications, with many wet cast products able to imitate natural stone in appearance. 

Products like the Nubrik pressed bricks from Austral Bricks, are a low-maintenance and hardy choice for outdoor applications and are particularly robust in poolside installations due to their slip-resistant and salt-resistant structure. 

About dry cast pavers 

Unlike wet cast pavers, dry cast pavers are created using very little water and almost no slump. Containing only enough water to hydrate the cement, the mix is then compressed in a mould using high amounts of pressure, after which it is cured before being mechanically palletised and stored for use. Due to the nature of the material, the finish of dry cast pavers can be courser, more textured or less smooth, resulting in a higher porosity than its wet cast alternative. The dry cast process also means that there is less variation or scope of colour when it comes to the finished product, making the application of these products better suited to larger-scale or commercial projects. However, products such as the Bowral Bricks ‘Highlands’ range from Austral Bricks are an optimal choice due to their high strength, durability and superior load capacity. Or, for a range with a subtle, yet rich variation of finishes, the ‘Blends’ collection from Bowral Bricks is available in a host of complementary colours to suit a range of applications.   

Which option is better for my project? 

Whatever option you’re considering, knowing the difference between the two styles will determine the best fit for your unique application. Whether working on a large-scale commercial project, or a specific residential build, there is a Brickworks product to solve all your needs. 

“Due to the nature of the material, the finish of dry cast pavers can be courser, more textured or less smooth, resulting in a higher porosity than its wet cast alternative.”

“Due to the nature of the material, the finish of dry cast pavers can be courser, more textured or less smooth, resulting in a higher porosity than its wet cast alternative.”