Concrete is undoubtedly the most popular commercial patio material in America. With countless decorative finishes, concrete patios bring homeowners an attractive outdoor surface with limitless design potential. Compared to wood decks, concrete patios are less costly and require less upkeep. They are available in a variety of styles from which you may choose. Concrete can be stamped, colored, honed, or polished. With a bit of planning, your Concrete Patios can be the envy of the neighborhood.

Stone and players are not always the best choice for concrete patios. Stone can be susceptible to algae growth, while pavers are not very weather resistant. If you are looking for an appealing but hard-wearing surface, these options may not be suitable for you. For outdoor living, you may have better options. Lining the area with paving stones is an attractive addition, and pavers offer a low-maintenance surface.

Concrete Patios require simple installation. There are three basic options: stamped, colored or honed. Stamped concrete patios are simply stamped with design options such as classic patterns or the company logo. Colored patios can be designed with fun, vibrant colors or classic shades. Honed pavers are finished with layers of crushed stone to create a unique design.

You must seal your concrete patios, even after staining, to protect it from ultraviolet rays and the elements. Sealers are available, but basic steps in the installation process will ensure that your new patio looks good all year long. As the first step, lay the slab on a flat, clean, dry surface. Next, level the floor with spade-trowel and string tacks under the edge of the paving.

Your next step is to stamp your basic pattern on the slab. For contemporary and modern concrete patios, choose a pattern that matches the contour of the exterior wall. Or, for more of a traditional feel, choose a stamp that matches the texture of your exterior wall. Stamping should be fairly straightforward; the design options are endless. For concrete patios that need sealing, add a few drops of your chosen sealer to the bottom of the slab.

Next, pre-drill several holes in the surface of your concrete patios. Drill holes at least six inches apart, depending on the width of your space. To provide support for heavier objects and to prevent your new patio from rocking, install wooden or metal girders at the joints. The key to properly joining the edges of your paving is to use the same radius of each joint. After drilling and stapling, apply a single layer of concrete to the joints using a rag or paper towels dampened with water.

Finally, to keep your concrete patios looking good, we have to seal them. If you want to go the inexpensive route, you can apply a single coat of paint to your surface before you begin the installation. If, however, you want to minimize the cost around your patio, applying a concrete coating by itself will not be enough. In most cases, the concrete coating will require a second coat to give it strength against water and to further protect its surface.

Now all that’s left is to add the right accessories to complete your dream outdoor space. The key to make this project easier is to choose accessories that match the style of your concrete patios and that will complement the look of your home. For example, a stone coping style counter top would work perfectly with modern concrete patios and a wooden deck. On the other hand, the black and white tiles with a rustic motif for the outside of your deck would be perfect for a period house or an old country house. These are just some examples of the ideas that can be incorporated to create a stunning space.