4 Great Materials to Use to Design Your Patio

Homeowners today are increasingly pursuing ways to expand their living space by strategically selecting furniture, utilizing storage efficiently and taking advantage of outdoor space. One of the popular ways being adopted for creating a great outdoor living space is the construction of patios.

Patios can be used as seasonal recreation centers used as in grill-out locations in summer and gathering places for bonfires during fall. Other than the recreation aspect, patios can also enhance the style of your home and that of your garden.

This article discusses some of the materials you can use in designing your patio so as to give it the desired style and authenticity.   

Dry-Laid Flagstone

The advantage of dry-laid flagstone as a patio material is that it is both easy to maintain and durable. Flagstone is also available in a wide range of colors and types that complement various architectural styles. Patios with dry-laid flagstone offer a rustic and hand-hewn look. Maintenance of this surface requires that you replace the sand between the joints and pull out any weeds from the cracks.

Stained Concrete

This is a durable surface that can be used with almost any patio design. To add color, you can either mix the pigment in the concrete before pouring, or apply it directly on the slab surface. It is advisable that you choose a hue that is slightly darker because with time it will fade in the sun. In order to maintain it so as to serve you longer, you should wash it with water and soap and seal any unwanted stains.

Brick

In the construction of patios, bricks give a traditional look complete with earthy and warm colors. When installing the bricks, you can either mortar them in place or dry-lay them on a bed of gravel. The installation process is made simpler by the uniformity in size and shape of the bricks. From time to time, you should power-wash the bricks surface so as to remove grime or moss. Any loose or chipped mortar should also be repaired immediately.

Pea Gravel

This is considered the easiest to install patio surface because it shifts underfoot, enhances walking comfort and provides better drainage than any other patio surface. By allowing water to soak through it into the ground, this surface prevents erosion. In addition to being inexpensive, pea gravel is simpler to maintain because all you need is to rake the surface so as to blow off debris and smooth displaced stones.

Other surfaces that you may also consider in constructing your patio include stamped concrete and mulch. You can discuss which material is ideal for your patio with local professionals such as Patioworld NSW Pty Ltd.