Types of Patios You Can Build

Your choice of material for your patio will go a long way in determining the cost, durability, and maintenance requirements. Luckily, there are many designs you can choose from. The professional builders from NO1 Patios Brisbane have outlined the top six most popular patio designs. Read on to learn about their advantages, cost, and not-too good features.

1. Paver Patios

Pavers are available in different materials, shapes, textures, and designs. The durability of the paver depends on the material you use. However, it is generally easy to incorporate paver your landscape without worrying so much about filling varying slopes. Paver is durable and will perform well against snow, ice, and rain. Since they are individually placed, you can remove any to perform routine maintenance.

On the downside, pavers require extensive labour, time, experience, and effort. Also, unwanted foliage and weeds will often grow between cracks, although there is a way around that. The installation is longer since you must ensure that the area is flat, filled and sealed.

Cost: $10-$25 per sqm

2. Brick patios

Brick patios are products of clay that are usually in the shape of a rectangle, cast, and heated. Clay bricks have been around for thousands of years and are known for their strength and durability. Although it won’t give you a modern look, brick patios can stand up to rough weather and heavy use without warping, scratching, or scuffing, and you can seal them to prevent stains. On maintenance, you only need to sweep the patio when needed and wash the stains if any ever occurs.

Brick patios are only available in a few textures and colours. As a result, they don’t offer versatile designs. It also requires periodic sealing every three years, and a laborious installation process may require that you hire a professional.

Cost: $12-$20 per sqm

3. Flagstone patios 

Flagstone is a natural stone that works for various landscaping applications. Their beautiful appearance will complete your natural landscape, and the stone is available in different varieties. They include limestone, sandstone, travertine, etc. Flagstone is durable and can last for many decades if you care for it. The stone is also easy to install, and you don’t have to worry about contraction or expansion as temperatures fluctuate. In other words, it won’t crack or shift in changing temperatures.

Despite the ease of installation, flagstone requires enough time and labour. Not only this, but the stones are heavy, and you will spend considerable time arranging them. Flagstones can be slippery after heavy rainfall and hot in extreme temperatures.

Cost: $16-$30 per sqm

4. Gravel Patios

Gravels are ideal for creating patios thanks to their soft and organic appearance. The attractive material is easy to find; hence, is economic and affordable. Gravel is easy to install, even without a professional. However, it should be laid on a flat surface. Its permeable characteristic makes gravel ideal for use during the rainy season, as you won’t have to worry about pools of water on your patio. Plus, it is easy to repair and clean with a simple leaf blower. Its natural colour palette allows customization, and you can mix it with other materials like stones and wood.

On the downside, gravel moves easily. Although it won’t decompose, it sinks into the soil, and you will need to carry out frequent maintenance. The condition will be worse if the patio is built on porous soil.

Cost: $6-$14 per sqm

5. Slate Patios

Slate is a product of metamorphic rock that has formed within the earth over a long period. As a result, it is durable and hard. Slate is scratch-resistant and performs well against scrapes and dents. It is also water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about possible damage from rainfall. Its rough texture and availability in different colours allow it to hide dirt and damage quite well. So, even if it chips, it will go unnoticed for a long period.

You only need to sweep slate patios occasionally to keep them clean. Although durable, slate is a bit brittle. As a result, it will likely crack if you drop something heavy on it. The rough surface can also be a pain to walk or barefoot or stand on for too long.

Cost: $15-$30 per sqm

6. Concrete Patios

Concrete patios are versatile and built to last. Thanks to high tensile strength, they can hold a lot of pressure and weight over time compared to other materials. Concrete is cost-effective, and you can customize the colour, shape, and size. Apart from this, the material is not expensive but could attract high installation costs.

The biggest drawback of a concrete patio is that you can’t move it. Unlike brick and other types, you can’t take out a piece for repair or remodelling. Also, freeze and thaw cycles can damage concrete patios

Cost: $6-$17 per sqm

 Conclusion

You can build your patio out of various materials, unless the location or environment restricts you. However, the six we have listed above are the most popular choices you can’t go wrong with.

Article Submitted By Community Writer