Winters in Missouri are a perfect time to start planning landscaping projects, and a great concrete patio design should be the centerpiece of your project. Whether you want a patio just large enough for a cafe table and chair or a more extensive area to host family barbecues and birthday parties, a concrete patio can transform your backyard space into the haven you’ve always wanted. But before you get too far in your daydreaming, you are wise to look for tips for concrete patio design in Missouri to make sure you get it right. Creating the space that best combines your needs and wants requires proper planning and preparation.
Why Choose Concrete For Patio Design?
Poured concrete patio slabs are long-lasting, durable, attractive, and easy to keep clean. Unlike paving bricks, concrete dramatically reduces cracks and gaps that can lead to insect infestation and weed growth.
Tips for Concrete Patio Design in Missouri
You can save a ton of money by planning and pouring your concrete patio yourself. But taking the DIY route means that you also need to spend some more time in preparation to make sure you get the job done right. Here are a few tips for concrete patio design in Missouri to ensure you get a finished product that functions as it should and is one that you will love.
1. Choose Your Patio Placement Strategically
Just like all real estate, patio placement is all about location, location, location. If you’re going to put a concrete patio behind your home, it’s important that the placement is strategic and practical. After all, it’s going to be tough to relocate a patio after the concrete has been poured. For the most functional patio design, some of the items to keep in mind are:
- Proximity to the house - How close is the patio to your home? If you are cooking on the patio or entertaining, you might want it reasonably accessible.
- Exposure to sun and shade - Too much sun or shade may not meet your needs. Make sure the area you choose has enough coverage or sun to achieve your outdoor goals.
- Outdoor activities - First, how is the view from your patio? And how will the proposed area accommodate activities that you have planned like cooking, entertaining, and swimming?
2. Allow For Patio Drainage
Another essential element to concrete patio design is drainage. Design your patio with a slight slope away from your home. This will prevent water from pooling, which could not only compromise the integrity of the concrete but could also cause damage to your home’s foundation. If the patio is next to the home, redirect downspouts away from it. And if your patio design includes a roof, make sure you have a properly maintained drainage system.
3. Add Different Design Elements to Your Patio
Designing your patio with concrete provides a myriad of customizable options. Instead of going with a square or rectangle shape, you create different areas that serve various functions, such as cooking and relaxing, steps, water features, the list goes on and on.
You can also add different design elements to your concrete patio that will customize its look. For example, you can enhance your concrete surface with stains, colors, and stamps. Finally, sealing your patio surface will give it a more finished look as well as provide additional protection from the elements.
You Might Like: What is Stamped Concrete?
Speak With a Missouri Concrete Delivery Company
Now that you have a list of tips for concrete patio design in Missouri, you’re ready to take on this exciting project. Once you’ve decided where your patio will go and have a schedule in mind, it’s time to think about materials.
Arnold Ready Mix is the premier provider of Ready Mix concrete in Jefferson County, Missouri. We offer dependable and affordable ready-mix concrete delivery. Contact us today for a free quote or to schedule your delivery.
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