Concrete Patios

Why Concrete Is the Smart Choice for Patios

When you are ready to create outdoor living space, you have several material options. Wood decks, pavers, and natural stone all have their place. But concrete offers a unique combination of durability, versatility, and value that makes it an excellent choice for most homeowners.

Unlike wood, concrete does not rot, warp, or require regular staining and sealing. Unlike pavers, it does not shift, settle, or allow weeds to grow between joints. A properly installed concrete patio can last 30 years or more with minimal maintenance.

Concrete also adapts to your design vision. You can choose from many textures, colors, and patterns. Want the look of natural stone without the high cost? Stamped concrete delivers that appearance at a fraction of the price. Prefer a modern, smooth finish? A polished or troweled surface creates a sleek contemporary look.

Advantages of Concrete Patios

• •Long lifespan with minimal upkeep compared to wood or composite decks
• •Lower cost than natural stone or premium pavers
• •Unlimited design options through stamping, staining, and texturing
• •Seamless surface without joints that trap dirt or allow weeds
• •Better heat resistance than wood decking
• •Can support heavy outdoor furniture and features like fire pits

Design Options for Your Perfect Patio

Your patio should reflect your style and meet your needs. Here are the most popular concrete patio options we install in Acton.

Standard Broom Finish

A broom finish is the most straightforward and economical option. After we pour and smooth the concrete, we drag a broom across the surface to create fine lines. This texture provides traction when the surface is wet, making it a safe choice for areas near pools or where rain might make the patio slippery. The simple, clean look works well with any home style.

Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete uses special mats to imprint patterns into the surface before it fully hardens. You can choose patterns that mimic slate, flagstone, brick, cobblestone, or wood planks. We add color to match your home and landscape. The result looks remarkably similar to the natural material but costs much less. This is our most popular decorative option for patios and walkways.

Stained Concrete

Acid stains or water-based stains add rich, variegated color to concrete. Unlike paint, stains penetrate the surface and become part of the concrete. This means the color will not chip or peel. Staining works especially well when combined with other finishes like stamping or scoring to create unique, artistic designs.

Exposed Aggregate

This finish reveals the natural stones within the concrete mix. We wash away the top layer of cement paste before the concrete fully hardens, exposing the decorative aggregate below. The result is a textured surface with a natural, earthy appearance. Exposed aggregate provides excellent traction and hides dirt well.

Smooth Trowel Finish

For a modern, minimalist look, we can create an ultra-smooth surface using steel trowels. This finish works well for contemporary homes and can be polished to various levels of sheen. Keep in mind that smooth finishes can become slippery when wet, so they work best for covered patios or areas that stay dry.

How We Build Your Patio to Last

The installation process for a patio is similar to a driveway but with some important differences. Patios typically do not need to support vehicle weight, so we can use a thinner slab. However, proper drainage and a stable base remain critical.

Planning and Layout

We start by discussing your vision for the space. How will you use the patio? Do you want areas for dining, lounging, or outdoor cooking? We measure the space and create a layout that fits your yard and connects well with your home. We also identify any obstacles like trees, utility lines, or drainage issues that might affect the project.

Excavation and Base Preparation

We excavate to the proper depth and grade the site to direct water away from your home. A 4-inch base of compacted gravel provides a stable foundation and allows for drainage. This step prevents settling and cracking over time.

Forming and Reinforcement

We set forms to define the patio edges and create any curves or borders you want. Most patios use 4 inches of concrete, which is sufficient for foot traffic and furniture. We add wire mesh or fiber reinforcement to minimize cracking.

Pouring and Finishing

After pouring the concrete, we work quickly to apply your chosen finish. For stamped concrete, this involves adding color, stamping the pattern, and detailing the joints. For other finishes, we use the appropriate tools and techniques to achieve the desired look. We create control joints to manage any cracking that might occur as the concrete cures.

Curing and Sealing

Proper curing takes 7 days or more. We apply a curing compound and provide care instructions. After the concrete has cured, we recommend sealing the surface to protect it from moisture, stains, and weather damage. Resealing every 2 to 3 years keeps your patio looking great.

Frequently Asked Questions