All About Concrete Patios

A patio is an important part of outdoor living. When the weather is warm, it can offer a striking outdoor area that effectively serves as an extra living and dining room. Unlike a lawn, a concrete patio delivers a flat and solid surface with fewer insects and mud. Because of its durability and various design structure, concrete makes a superb paving choice for patios. In fact, the numerous features make it the perfect area for outdoor entertainment without the stress of an indoor mess.

When compared to other decking and patio surfaces, concrete patio offers innumerable benefits such as:

• Exceedingly durable
• Very low-maintenance
• Flexible to any individual style
• Can be poured into numerous shapes

In addition, concrete can cater to any style or design to match your exterior décor. For instance, concrete can be poured into any shape, it can also be stamped, decorative and stained.

Decorative Concrete
If you are interested in concrete but desire luxurious look of brick, natural stone or appealing tiles then decorative concrete is the ideal solution. In truth, you can get the same look as high-end materials at a much cheaper price.

Decorative concrete features a wide variety of styles, textures and colors. In addition, its decorative beauty can still be utilized for the same practical uses like driveways, building walls and patios.

Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is when the surface of your concrete is stamped to create textures that imitate brick, slate, tile, wood, stone and other various textures and patterns. It is typically used for patios, decks around the pool, driveways, sidewalks and interior flooring. Since it is a close replica to authentic materials, it makes an excellent alternative with a much cheaper price.

Stamped concrete is also referred to as imprinted or textured concrete.

Stained Concrete
Colored or stained concrete is the effect of either natural stains or acid stains. It complements a variety of structures such as concrete sidewalks, patios, driveways and interior flooring.

Acid Stains – this type of stain comes in a wide variety of colors including earth tones such as tans and browns, electrifying colors like turquoise and red oxide. Since acid stain can be toxic, tremendous care needs to be taken when applying or handling.

Natural Stains - this type of stain is a lot more Eco friendly. Natural stains are non-toxic and much safer to use than other types of stains. As well, natural stains are extremely diverse. For example, you can use coffee stains or iron sulfate (a rust color). Some of the benefits of using a natural stain include:

• No fumes
• Cost effective
• Warm, glistening colors
• Environmentally friendly and non-toxic

You can also combine several colors to create a certain design to fit your needs. The possibilities are endless.

Turn you dull concrete into a spectacular flooring statement. Since concrete is porous and is light-colored, it can easily be transformed into a custom concrete element of your choosing. However, a DIY project may be tempting, it is best to consult a professional. What is more, Plano Concrete Contractors years of experience and the expertise to turn your concrete into something stunning!