Concrete Patio Designs and Ideas
What comes to mind when you hear of a concrete patio? If you are like most people, you also probably imagine a sad, cracked slab in an uncherished outdoor space.
Luckily, though, there are plenty of concrete patio ideas that can help transform yours into something beautiful and full of character, says Bighorn Rentals.
If you came here looking to spruce up the look of your concrete patio, you have landed at the right place.
Idea #1: Install a two-level patio.
Have space for a two-level patio? If so, then consider installing it. A two-level patio can help transform your ordinary patio into something unique.
The entrance to your home could be where, whether it’s a regular door or a sliding glass door, the second level starts and then transitions down to the first level where people can sit down and relax.
You may even decide whether you want the concrete to be of one color or one that has several coordinating colors to look like stone or cobblestone.
Idea #2: Get creative with paint.
Painting is an easy and affordable way to instantly add some character. If you want to let your creative juices flow, try mimicking a carpet or even a game board. You can also mimic the appearance of upscale stone patios with just a bit of paint and some stamps.
Whatever color you decide to paint, though, make sure it is bold and bright. You may also try painting it a fun pattern, such as chevron.
Before embarking on the painting process, remember to power-wash the concrete first. According to doityourself.com, you can rent one for about $60 a day. But if you lack the basic skills or simply don’t have the time, then hire professional painting services.
Idea #3: Fake the look of stone.
The goal here is to transform the look of your concrete patio into something that looks like real brick or stone.
To get this look, concrete masons usually use a patterned rubber roller made specifically for concrete patio designs.
The patterned rubber roller shares the same shape as a paint roller and is used just before the concrete has cured. Now, these concrete rollers come in a variety of graphic, brick, and stone patterns. They aren’t cheap, however.
They usually cost anything between $900 and $1,700 for just one mat so make sure to hire Cesar’s Concrete to get this done.
Idea #4: Fake the look of brick, flagstone, or cobblestone.
For a professionally installed stamped concrete patio, expect to spend at least $11 per square foot. On the other hand, building an elevated wood deck can easily end up costing up to four times as much.
Time, sun, water, and inclement weather conditions will cause a wood patio to fade, splinter, and rot.
Idea #5: Create an interesting look using stencil patterns.
This is a good option if you want to create something different or unique that may not be easy to find. You can make use of paper stencils to add some color to the concrete. Concrete stencils come in a wide variety of shapes, patterns, and sizes.
It’s even possible to stencil the concrete patio to match the floor in the area of the home that transitions to the patio for a seamless look. Ideally, go with professional services.
Idea #6: Update your concrete patio by staining or sealing it.
This is a quick and inexpensive way to transform an uninteresting concrete slab into an elegant patio. The following are the simple steps you will need to follow.
First and foremost, you need to start removing dirt, grease or mildew by scrubbing the area using a stiff-bristled brush or a non-residue cleaner. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a degreaser and a pressure washer.
Secondly, you will need to spread muriatic acid onto the concrete. Make sure you have your safety gear on before doing this. Let the acid etch for up to half an hour. This helps neutralize the alkalinity of the concrete.
After the thirty or so minutes, clean the area using plenty of water.
Lastly, apply the concrete stain. You, however, need to wait for not less than 48 hours before sweeping off any residual concrete powder. Use a brush or a roller in any pattern or style you wish. If you think another coat is necessary, wait for at least 24 hours before applying it.
Again, consider hiring professional services if this isn’t within your scope of skills.
There you have it. 6 concrete patio designs and ideas you can start implementing now to transform the look of your backyard. Just remember to do your due diligence when looking to hire a professional.
