How to Choose Patio Materials

There's a variety of materials on the market for outdoor patios, but it's important to choose one that fits your lifestyle and complements your home. When choosing a patio material, look at important performance features as well as cost.

Important Features

Since outdoor patios are exposed year-round to the elements, make sure the material you choose will hold up well to sun, heat, cold, rain and snow.

Durability – Choose a material that fits your lifestyle and climate conditions. If you have kids and pets, easy cleaning and maintenance is important. Look for a material that will resist stains, spills, cracking and chipping, so outdoor entertaining is easier and more enjoyable.

Porosity – If you live in an area with harsh, cold winters with snow and ice, your patio materials will be exposed to the freeze/thaw cycle. Porous materials will absorb water easier. If the water freezes at night, then thaws out the next day, that process can crack and dislodge patio tiles.

Non-Slip Surface – Outdoor patio materials can become slippery when wet, so it's important to choose a material with a non-slip, slightly abrasive surface. A non-slip surface will protect your family from falls and injuries on the patio.

Good Patio Materials

Natural Stone

Natural stone will create a beautiful patio that will complement any home style. Stone pavers or tiles are available in granite, marble, slate, travertine and limestone in a variety of sizes and shapes. They come in a variety of colors and finishes, including tumbled or honed finishes that offer a non-slip surface. Most natural stones, except granite, are rather porous, so talk to your contractor about using a sealer for added protection.

Brick

Brick pavers are durable and easy to maintain. When wet, brick dries quickly in the sun and doesn't typically require a sealer for protection. Brick pavers are perfect for a classic, traditional look, especially when laid in herringbone patterns rather than straight patterns. Brick colors range from typical red to muted shades of brown, tan and green.

Concrete

Concrete pavers are strong, durable and resilient with a natural slip-resistant surface. They will easily withstand freezing ground temperatures without cracking or chipping and don't need a sealer. Now available in more than 30 pre-mixed colors and 15 stains, concrete pavers offer a stylish look at an affordable price. Talk to a patio contractor in your area to get free quotes.