Three Ideas For Spicing Up Concrete Patio Designs
Posted: Thursday, February 21, 2008
by Susan Schlenger
Susan Schlenger Landscape Design
Concrete? Oh no, I don't want concrete for my patio!I hear this many times from Clients.
You might want to think twice before dismissing this paving material.
Concrete is often considered due to it being relatively inexpensive. While many homeowners may want a different paving for there concrete patio designs, such as pavers, brick or natural stone, it is not always in their budget.
- Choose a color other than the typical cement color. This can be done by adding color into the concrete mix. You can then have paving that is an attractive color. Beige tones and grays look nice.
- Use an acid base stain. This will create various shades of color and can actually look like stone. There are many colors to choose from. It is VERY nice. Be sure to hire a contractor who has had experience with this, as the application must be done correctly.
- Create a geometric pattern. Rather than have large expanses of concrete, score the concrete into large squares. These might be eighteen inches or twenty four inches in size. An added advantage is that construction joints will blend into the scoring. Consider laying the pattern on the diagonal. This adds additional interest and can make the area look larger.
Advantages of Concrete
- Inexpensive
- Blends well with other hardscapes in the landscape.
- Patterned and colored concrete normally do not fight with house colors and materials.
- Nice colors can be achieved.
Disadvantages of Concrete
- If not installed properly, can crack over time.
- Additional procedures should be considered to make it interesting, as mentioned above.
Concrete with the above additions can work very nicely for patios and swimming pool decking. You can read more about how to make concrete patios exciting by visiting Concrete Patio Designs.You might also like to visit my page on interesting patio designs and alternative paving materials at Patio Designs.
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