Concrete is still the top choice for patios in the country. Concrete Patio entices homeowners with numerous decorative finishes that desire an attractive outdoor surface with limitless design potential. Compared to stone, paper, and wood decks, concrete patios are less durable and require more upkeep. It can be used for both residential and commercial projects. If you’re considering a concrete patio, it’s essential to follow some basic guidelines to make sure you get a quality product. Keep reading to learn how to choose the right one for your needs.
There are countless design options when it comes to concrete patios. You can choose from precast options or customize your own. In either case, there are several factors to consider. To help you make the right choice, below is a list of the main design options for concrete patios:
Wood Patios: These patios are easy to construct. For instance, if you buy a prefabricated kit, all you have to do is add lumber to the bottom, footers, and other relevant parts. Plus, wood decks are available in a wide array of designs, so you are bound to find one that suits your personality. Some popular wood decking materials include cedar and redwood. However, these types of patios require regular upkeep and may not be appropriate for those prone to allergies. In addition, they tend to be costly due to the wood being harvested from trees.
Brick Patios: Compared to wood decks and pavers, brick patios have the advantage of requiring little maintenance. They are easy to install, which makes brick pavers a more preferred choice for homeowners looking to install a covered patio surface. Pavers are also available in a wide variety of designs. They are not only easy to install, but you can also use them to create patterns on the landscape if you like.
Concrete Patios: Although concrete patios are easy to install, they may not suit everyone. The problem with concrete patios is that they can be pricey if you need to hire professionals to install them. On the other hand, asphalt and clay hardscape surfaces can be installed easily without hiring professionals. If you are considering building your own deck, you can save a lot of money by doing it yourself. Just remember that you must have the necessary skills, tools and expertise to pour the concrete.
Concrete Patio Sealing: Once you have chosen the concrete patio that you want, you have to prepare the area for pouring the concrete. Before starting the pouring process, you must thoroughly prepare the area. For instance, you have to remove all rubble, grass and weeds. Then, clear away any plants that may be growing on the area. Last, you have to reinforce the area by using rebar or steel bars.
One of the best ways to prepare the area is to use a steel scrap that is at least two inches thick and enough to cover the entire area. Then, you have to rake away the grass and any weeds that are growing on the surface of the landscaping. Once you have finished raking, you can start pouring the concrete mixture on top soil using a steel shovel or a smaller shovel with a pick up handle.
Before pouring the concrete, you have to add the right materials. For instance, the first batch of concrete should be mixed with water. After the water dries, you can use a steel shovel to further level the area. Now, you can start pouring the concrete mixture on the concrete patio. When you are finished, you can place the landscaping bricks or paving stones on top of the area. Make sure that you secure all of the joints by using rebar or steel bars.
