Decorative Options For Your Concrete Patio
Few options are more durable than concrete when it comes to a material for your patio, but you may be concerned that the patio will resemble a boring gray slab. Fortunately, concrete has come a long way and you know have many design options to choose from. The following are a few ways you can spruce up your concrete patio so it is anything but boring.
Integrate curves
In the past, many concrete patios were installed as perfect squares or rectangles simply because the shape is easy to frame out and pour. Yet, curves instantly make the patio look more pleasing to the eye by giving it a more organic shape. For patios that have one wall skirting the house, consider curving out the outer edge. For the most attractive look, only use flat edges where the patio bumps up against a building or neighboring paved area, like a walkway.
Frame it in
Another decorative element that doesn't require a lot of additional work or expense but provides a major visual improvement is to add a border. This can be a true border of bricks or paver stones set into the concrete, or you can have a faux border installed by using a different color of concrete around the perimeter and then having it stamped to resemble bricks or stone. Tile is another excellent border option, and the large variety of tile available gives you a chance to really play with color.
Skip the gray
The most boring aspect of a standard concrete patio is the gray part. Fortunately, there is no good reason to settle for a patio in bland cement gray. Concrete dyes are mixed into the concrete, so there are no future worries about chipping or fading. You can choose from almost any color, from rich slate gray and black, to earthy browns, red, or even greens. It's even possible to have an acid stained applied after the concrete cures if you prefer multiple colors or intricate design.
Add some surface texture
While polished concrete is attractive indoors, it can pose a slipping hazard outside. Instead, go the other direction and add more texture to your outdoor concrete surfaces. You can have something as simple as sand worked into the top surface to add texture, or you can opt for decorative pebbles. Another option is to have the concrete stamped with a decorative design.
For more help, talk to a concrete contractor, like one from Elizalde Construction, in your area.