Your choice of patio surface is personal. Since you know you have a potential issue with water, it will be important that you create good drainage to prevent settling (and cracking).

The advantage pavers provide is that a few can be removed and releveled if ever such becomes necessary. Concrete will eventually crack and there really isn't any way to make repairs once that happens.

Our paver patio is elevated, held in place by a retaining wall. To level the grade, up to 12" of compacted gravel was placed below the pavers and additionally French drainage to direct water to a low area adjacent. No problems in over 12 years and I too reside in the Chicago area. Good luck.

{{!gwi}}

MOST CONCRETE WILL CRACK IN TIME.
pavers ,i feel are better but i used concrete as it was easier to do and its 9 years old and no cracks, so far.

fnmroberts -

Your patio looks great! I have ruled out concrete and am thinking of pavers or flagstone.

Thanks for your input.