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Decks and Patios Photo Gallery Ready to build your dream patio? What material will you pick? Explore more images of beautiful decks and patios.
Inti St. Clair/Photodisc/Getty ImagesMaximizing your living space is easier than you think. Efficient storage, thoughtful furniture choices, and embracing the outdoors can transform your home. More and more homeowners are exploring ways to extend their living areas beyond the interior. According to The American Institute of Architects' Home Design Trend Survey from the first quarter of 2008, over two-thirds of participants noted the rising trend of outdoor living spaces [source: Baker].
Adding a patio is a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor living area. Unlike decks, which are elevated, patios are typically level with the ground. Whether it's a summer BBQ spot or a cozy gathering place by the fire pit in the fall, patios can serve as versatile spaces throughout the year. They can also help divide areas of your yard and complement the design of your home and garden.
Patios come in all shapes and sizes, just like the homes they accompany. Whether it's a grand rectangular brick patio or a flowing, free-form slate design, consider the patio's function and aesthetic. Will it host large gatherings or offer a private escape for two? Size and appearance matter. For a patio that flows seamlessly with your home and garden, think about the vibe you want to create. For example, a brick patio might suit a colonial-style house, while a contemporary home might benefit from a sleek poured concrete design.
In this article, we will explore five of the most popular materials used for patios, starting with a natural choice.
5. Stone
Stone provides a timeless and sturdy option for patios. Liz Birkholz, who served as vice-president elect of communications for the American Society of Landscape Architects in 2010-2011, suggests opting for locally sourced stone. It’s more eco-friendly and integrates better with your backyard’s natural surroundings. Some popular stone varieties for patios include slate, quartzite, bluestone, and limestone [sources: Outdoor Living].
Natural stone blends seamlessly into garden settings due to its earthy tones. "Natural stone will certainly outlast other materials and maintain its color far better," says Thomas Tavella, president of Tavella Design Group.
Although stone is appealing for its look and longevity, its uneven surfaces can make walking difficult. It’s also quite heavy, and its irregular shapes can complicate patio installation. Additionally, stone patios tend to be more expensive than alternatives like concrete pavers or poured concrete.
Next, let's explore a more budget-friendly alternative.
4. Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are crafted from tightly packed concrete, forming individual units that can imitate brick or natural stone, but at a more affordable cost. They come in various shapes and colors.
Concrete pavers offer flexibility in installation, giving homeowners a range of benefits. Most pavers are installed as separate pieces, making it easy to replace them without disturbing the rest of the patio. Some pavers feature interlocking joints, which help stabilize the patio by preventing shifting. When placed in sand, these pavers have a bit of flexibility, allowing them to adjust to changes in temperature and weight by shifting rather than cracking [source: Outdoor Living: The Ultimate Project Guide].
However, concrete pavers do come with some drawbacks. Their rigid geometric shapes limit the variety of patterns that can be created. Additionally, some pavers have shallow colors that may fade with time, and scratching them can expose the bare concrete beneath.
Now, let's explore another method of using concrete for creating your patio.
If you're looking for an eco-friendly alternative, consider permeable concrete pavers. When laid, these pavers create a patio with gaps filled with small stones, allowing rainwater to filter through and gradually return to the soil. This method prevents water from rushing over hard surfaces and lawns, which could carry pollutants into rivers and streams [source: Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute, source: City of Palo Alto, Public Works].
3. Poured Concrete
Concrete consists of a mixture of cement, sand, and gravel, blended with water to create a sticky substance that hardens when dry. Its semi-liquid nature makes it easy to form into nearly any shape, providing flexibility for both geometric and curvy patio designs. Additionally, poured concrete is a cost-effective option that offers a sturdy, low-maintenance surface.
Poured concrete does have its drawbacks. The mixing process requires precision to ensure the best results. If the concrete isn’t properly dried or if drainage issues arise, it could crack over time. Additionally, smooth concrete can become slippery when wet. Birkholz notes that concrete may not be ideal if your patio is over sewer or electrical lines due to the potential cost of repairing the patio should those lines need maintenance. Furthermore, concrete may have an industrial or stark aesthetic that may not blend well with a natural setting.
Next, let's explore a completely different choice — tile.
If you're looking to break away from the usual plain, gray concrete, consider opting for patterned or tinted concrete. This type of concrete is either stamped or colored to resemble bricks, pavers, or stones, adding a unique flair to your patio. While this treatment generally costs more than standard poured concrete, it tends to be more affordable than pavers, depending on the treatment chosen.
2. Tile
Make sure you don't use the same tiles intended for your kitchen or bathroom. Ensure the tiles are specifically designed for outdoor use.
Dougal Waters/Digital Vision/Getty ImagesCeramic or porcelain tiles can create a highly distinctive patio. These tiles come in a wide range of styles and can provide a seamless flow between your indoor and outdoor spaces. While you may find similar tiles in your bathroom or kitchen, be sure to choose tiles and grout that are rated for exterior use. It's also important to select tiles that aren't too porous, to prevent water absorption and avoid damage from freezing and thawing. Typically, unglazed tiles are better for larger walking areas as they tend to be less slippery than glazed tiles.
Tile does come with some potential drawbacks. It can become slippery, making it a less suitable choice for areas like spas or pools. Additionally, it may become slick if it retains water for extended periods, allowing algae to develop on the surface. Lastly, tile tends to be more expensive than brick and, in some cases, even pricier than stone.
Next, let's explore brick as an alternative material for patios.
1. Brick
Bricks have been a staple in home construction for centuries, but those used for patios differ slightly from those used in buildings. Patio bricks are specially fired to make them less porous. If you live in a region with freezing temperatures, be sure to select bricks that are graded for your climate.
Brick patios don't have to be limited to just the traditional red, rectangular design. In addition to red, bricks come in colors like tan, black, and various other shades. To add further interest, consider creating patterns with the bricks. Popular designs include herringbone, where bricks alternate at a 90-degree angle, or pinwheel, which forms a square pattern using four regular-sized bricks with a half brick in the center.
Bricks can bring both a natural warmth and a sense of formal elegance to your patio, but they do come with some downsides. If laid on sand rather than mortar, weeds may sprout between the bricks, although these gaps can also allow for plants that can soften the overall appearance. Improper installation can result in bricks being more uneven than poured concrete or interlocking pavers, and over time, settling can worsen this issue. Additionally, brick tends to be pricier than concrete pavers.
Whether you choose brick, stone, or another material for your patio, it will provide you with extra space that is ideal for both entertaining guests and enjoying some peaceful relaxation.
