Concrete Patio Designs

Browsing and choosing concrete patio designs is the first step in enhancing outdoor and backyard living. The versatility of concrete makes the options endless and allows homeowners to be creative in thier design.

As concrete contractors, we try not get to involved in backyard and landscape design other than the concrete itself. Much of the lanscaping around the concrete can be done by the customer which can save them alot of $$. Most of our customers can't afford to dump tens of thousands of dollars into a backyard facade. The only part we don't recommend for do it yourselfers is installing the concrete, especially if it's decorative.

The biggest mistake in planning concrete patio designs is assuming that you need to start with a large square slab. Think about giving it some character and uniqueness. Consider using curved and oblong shapes. Or maybe design a few individual slabs interconnected with small sidewalks.

	Use designs without any straight lines like this stamped concrete patio. Decorative stone and block can be incorporated to make seatwalls and firepits.
	Exposed aggregate concrete is a popular choice for patios. Use formwork to incorporate flower beds or planter strips rather than using flower pots and planter boxes.
	How about a combination of curved and straight lines. Adapt to sloped yards or elevation changes and add character with multi-level designs.

There are few items to consider when planning.

• What is your budget for the entire project? Make a few calls to get some ballpark sq ft prices for the concrete. The concrete will probably eat up at least half of the available budget if not more.
• How much space do you have to work with?
• What accessories will you need to accomodate? Table and chairs, grill, firepit, swing, etc. In our experience, a good size patio that accomodates the basic accessories is 300-400 sq ft.
• Regular or decorative concrete? Stamped concrete is normally about double the price of broomed finished concrete. Perhaps you could save some money by having regular concrete installed and staining it yourself later.

With so many options, the biggest question when planning is where to start. Browse the web for ideas and tips. Search through Google images and contractor websites. Also try patio and lanscaping books. Books are much more descriptive and can help you figure out what you can and can't do yourself.