Patio Materials
January 31st, 2008 by admin
To determine what patio materials are wrong for you, take a look at the following:
1. The material you choose should blend with the surroundings and other materials used in the landscape. So, if your home is all red brick, then a black and orange tinted slate patio would look very out of place. Do not use patio materials that do not go with the rest of the area. If you have an upscale neighborhood, and an upscale yard, then a cheap pea gravel patio would look out of place. Basically, choose what looks right, it should look like a part of the place, not an addition.
2. You should have the right surface for the intended use of the patio. If you only want the patio to look at, use whatever you want. However, if you intend to entertain of dine on the patio, then a solid, level surface, such as brick, cement, or cast pavers, is best. You could even use the more expensive variety of patio materials like the flat stones, such as slate and flagstone, as these also create an even surface. If your intended use is entertainment and dining DO NOT use fieldstone; because it has a naturally uneven surface, it will not be perfectly level, and will result in a rickety table, and not as pleasant of a dining experience. If you want something that is inexpensive like pea gravel, but is still steady for a table and chairs, opt crushed granite. Once it is compacted it forms a surface that is basically as stable and firm as concrete, and water can percolate through it.
3. If you have a tight budget, you won’t likely be using slate or some other material such as marble, but you are likely to use a crushed rock, an inexpensive wood, or just a concrete slab. Basically the surfacing material of your patio is a matter of taste and cost. However, the foundation upon which the patio material sits and how the surface is set in place is key to determining the patio slope and levelness. You could have an uneven patio and have a nice even material, but if the foundation is uneven you are in for trouble. Because the foundation is important, then excavating a level area and putting in a gravel base topped with sand are essential. This is all a part of building a good and lasting patio, not matter what type you have, be it a slab of concrete or the foundation topped with the pavers of your choice.
Patio materials are going to make a difference in the look and feel of the patio. If you want a rich, warm feeling, a nice wood patio would be best. If you want ease and convenience of cleaning and maintenance, a concrete slab is a great patio material. If you want something fancier, long lasting, and intricate, go for some fancy brick work, stamped concrete, or a flat stone. The options are varied, and can meet anyone’s needs and preferences, so find something that works well with your budget, and lifestyle, not to mention the look and feel you are going for. Then enjoy your patio as a great extension of your living space.
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Tags: exterior, patio, patio_materials, remodeling
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