Concrete is the material of choice for a backyard patio, but that doesn't mean your patio has to look like everyone else's. Use a few design elements to create a unique patio.
1. Shaped to Suit
There are more options than a standard square or rectangular patio. Curves are more organic than straight lines, which helps them blend into landscaping. From perfect circles to more free-form shapes, the sky is the limit with poured concrete.
2. No Size Limitations
Concrete can be poured to any size, whether you are hoping for a tiny patio or a large one. If shifting is a concern, then your installers will add multiple slabs and expansion joints so that the patio can be large without cracking issues.
3. Endless Color Options
Adding a dye to the concrete before it's poured gives you a rainbow of patio colors to choose from. The color permeates the concrete so fading and peeling aren't issues. Finishes and seals can also be added to the surface to add gloss or to highlight patterns and colors.
4. Designer Stamping
Stamping partially cured concrete gives it the appearance of brick, stone pavers, or even tiling. The added texture can be quite convincing, but you'll have the benefit of a solid and stable concrete surface instead of shifting cobblestones or bricks. Combine stamps with color to create the perfect patio that realistically replicates stone pavers.
5. Aggregate Inclusion
Combine the beauty of quartz, granite, or other small stones with the durability of concrete. Aggregates are added to the top layer of the concrete, then a resin seal is poured over the top. The glossy finish protects the aggregate from weathering while also making the colors of the stones pop.
6. Weather Protection
Rain, sunlight, and friction can all break down paving over time. Concrete isn't completely solid as small air pockets do exist inside the material. Applying a finishing sealant to your patio keeps moisture out of these air pockets and provides an attractive sheen to the concrete surface.
7. Texture and Traction
Textured concrete surfaces serve two purposes. The first is safety, as texturing helps provide necessary slip prevention on sealed surfaces. The texture can also work as a design element. Your installers can change the pattern by using different types of tools and strokes when adding the texture.
8. Edge Finishing
The patio doesn't have to end abruptly at the yard. Your concrete crew can use transitional edge finishing to ease the transition. Sloping curbs or decorative inlays are some options.
Contact a concrete paving service, such as North American Paving, for help in designing your new outdoor patio.