Summer is here to stay and there’s no better time to get those outdoor projects completed. If you’ve been dreaming of your own outdoor oasis where you can soak up the sun, fire up the grill, or enjoy an outdoor meal with friends, you might want to consider a stamped concrete patio. Not only can a concrete patio enhance the look of your home, but it’s also a durable and virtually weather-proof option.

Why Choose a Stamped Concrete Patio? 

Looking for a custom backyard patio without breaking the bank? A stamped concrete patio delivers beautiful, budget-conscious results. Although many homeowners may not consider concrete to be the first option when considering a patio, here are some reasons why concrete beats the competition. 

  1. Custom Colour Options – Want a patio that matches the exterior of your home? Concrete can be mixed with any colour to create the perfect custom look.
  2. Patterns and Textures – Once your concrete patio has been poured, the surface can be stamped into any pattern or texture you desire. You can choose from the look of slate, stone, brick, and any texture available.
  3. Affordability – Unlike traditional patio materials such as cedar or stone, poured concrete is much more cost-effective, especially over time. And, since concrete patios are poured in slab form and not assembled piece by piece, the cost of installation is lower than other materials.
  4. Durability – Unlike wood, a concrete patio doesn’t require annual sealing and maintenance to maintain its beauty. A concrete patio holds up to all seasons, heavy foot traffic, children, and pets. Not to mention, you won’t have to worry about pulling weeds from between cedar slats or stones like you would with a traditional patio.
  5. Low Maintenance – Although you don’t need to seal a stamped concrete patio, doing so can help seal in colour, prevent cracks, and provide a non-slip surface. If you choose to seal your design, it can be done every few years or as needed to maintain its quality. Otherwise, all that’s needed to keep your patio clean is sweeping, and the occasional hose-down.

DIY or Professionally Installed? How to Plan Your Patio

Are you a weekend warrior? You may be up for the job of mixing, installing, and stamping your own patio. Here’s what you need to know before you attempt it:

  • You’ll need a very level surface. You can achieve this by digging down and using a laser level and stakes to show where your level line will be. 
  • You need to give yourself enough time and be sure to work quickly enough that the concrete surface doesn’t dry before you complete the stamping on the surface. 
  • Have all your equipment ready before you begin to ensure everything is completed efficiently. This includes wood to build up the perimeter of your patio, concrete and mixing equipment, a long trowel for smoothing the surface, rebar to protect against cracking and weather, concrete stamps, and sealant. 
  • Check the weather forecast and be sure to only tackle this project when there is no chance of rain. 

Why Hire a Professional?

Simply put, you can’t undo a mistake when it comes to concrete, and although you may be a confident DIYer, there is always the potential for error. Hiring a contractor who works with concrete regularly can assess your personal needs and make further recommendations based on their experience. For instance, if your yard is on a slight slope, or if you’re adding stairs, all these things will need to be accounted for. Here are some more reasons why a professional concrete contractor can save you the headache of doing it yourself:

  • A contractor can ensure your ground is professionally leveled, and that a proper sub-base is spread before pouring concrete. 
  • Your contractor will ensure no low-points in the slab where puddling can occur.
  • A contractor has access to all the equipment needed to mix, pour, or pump the concrete easily for your project.
  • If you want coloured concrete for your patio, a contractor can ensure it’s expertly matched to the shade you desire. 
  • Stamping concrete has a very small margin for error – any mistakes are permanent, and something best left to a professional.
  • A concrete contractor will ensure your patio is cured, sealed, and build to last. Often, control joints are added, creating a seamline that will prevent future cracking

What About Pavers? 

It all depends on the look you’re going for. Concrete pavers are created to look like real stones, bricks, and slate. They can be equally appealing for an outdoor patio, walkway, or pool area. The thing to consider is maintenance. Concrete pavers can lift and crack over time during freeze/thaw cycles, and are also prone to weeds, roots or grass poking through the seamlines. Although a stamped concrete patio can crack over time as well, control joints and sealing will ensure lasting results. 

Are you itching to create the perfect backyard oasis this summer? Contact RestoreAll for a free quote. We have over 40 years of experience and look forward to working with you on your next project.