It’s time to install a patio or re-do the one you already have, but you want the right materials. With many choices, you need to analyze what you want your patio to be and what materials fit that. With choices such as concrete, brick, wood, patio pavers and natural stone, the possibilities of your patio are endless. Check out below for our explanations of each material and the pros/cons of choosing that material.

Concrete

Concrete is one of the most common material used for patios. It is among the cheapest and the most durable of the group. While it can be beautiful with some work and coloring, it also can turn out very bland and look like a slab. However, with some work, or some specialty tools, a typical concrete patio can be given a surface texture that makes it look more varied or even like pavers.

Pros –

Easy to install

Inexpensive

Durable when installed correctly

Cons –

Can be unappealing

Can crack from natural causes

Needs regular cleaning and discolors over time.

Brick

Tried and true, brick patios are both beautiful and easy to work with. With the number of different types of bricks, creating a unique patio is easy and can be extremely impressive. Bricks can be a perfect extension from your home, as the red hues contrasts with the green surroundings, while also complementing the building.

Pros-

Easy to install/replace

Color and shape remain through the years

Endless possibilities in terms of design

Cons-

Can crack from natural causes

Can shift/sink if not installed correctly.

Small, making them hard to install initially

Wood

More often used for a deck, wood can also be used for a patio. A patio made of wood has the ability to both blend in to your property and its aesthetics, while also standing out. With a large variety of wood, you can create whatever you dream of. Wood provides opportunity when the property is uneven or sloped, as it can be built up to be even without having dirt imported.

Pros-

Typically less expensive than other materials

Easy to install

Attractive and fits in with wooded properties

Cons-

Shorter shelf life than other materials

Certain types can be extremely slippery when wet

Requires upkeep to maintain beauty/viability

Patio Pavers

Another strong choice with a lot of options is pavers. Like bricks, these can be easily installed and you have a lot of options regarding design. While not as bright as some other options on this list, they can still be beautiful. As pavers are typically larger than brick, they can cover a larger area and be quicker to install.

Pros-

Large number of options available

Long lasting, tough surface

Cheaper than other choices, but can create the same effect.

Cons-

Requires regular cleaning or can become extremely discolored.

Mainly come in dull colors

Can crack if not the correct type (weather-proof)

Natural Stone – Flagstone, Limestone, Slate

If you’re looking for a truly natural look, this is the perfect choice for your patio.  Not only does it provide a unique look, it also can combine house with the surrounding property.

Pros-

Large selection, as there is a strong variety of natural rock

Each piece is unique, which means your patio will be unique as well

Less upkeep (almost none!) required

Cons-

More expensive than other materials due to a number of hidden factors (transportation, extra man power needed)

Harder to install as the thickness and edges vary

Can be extremely heavy