Three Ideas For Spicing Up Concrete Patio Designs

By Susan Schlenger

Concrete? Oh no, I don't want concrete for my patio!
I hear this many times from Clients. However, 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.

However, concrete can actually look very nice as a paving material choice. You just have to know how to spice it up. Here are some great ways to do just that.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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
1. Inexpensive
2. Blends well with other hardscapes in the landscape.
3. Patterned and colored concrete normally do not fight with house colors and materials.
4. Nice colors can be achieved.

Disadvantages of Concrete
1. If not installed properly, can crack over time.
2. 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.
Susan Schlenger is a professional Landscape Designer with a degree in Landscape Architecture. To read more about concrete as a paving material, visit Concrete Patio Designs.
You can also read about other patio design ideas and additional paving choices at Patio Designs.
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