Concrete Patios

Why Concrete Beats Wood Decks and Pavers

When you are planning an outdoor space, you want something that looks good and lasts without constant upkeep. Concrete patios give you exactly that, and here is why they outperform other popular options like wood decks or paver patios.

Wood decks need annual staining, regular cleaning to prevent mold, and board replacement when pieces rot or warp. You are looking at ongoing maintenance costs and time that add up year after year. Pavers can look nice initially, but they shift over time, weeds grow between them, and individual pieces can sink or become uneven. You end up spending weekends releveling sections and pulling weeds just to keep things looking decent.

Concrete patios solve these problems while giving you design flexibility you might not expect:

• Minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and resealing every few years
• No rotting, warping, or insect damage that plagues wood structures
• Stable surface that does not shift, sink, or develop uneven spots
• Design options including stamped patterns, colors, and decorative borders
• Lower total cost when you factor in years of use and maintenance savings
• Perfect for heavy furniture, grills, and outdoor entertaining without worry

The key is working with experienced contractors who know how to design and build patios correctly. We handle everything from initial layout and design consultation through final finishing touches. Whether you want a simple entertaining space or an elaborate outdoor kitchen area, we create custom concrete solutions in Goldsboro that match your vision and budget.

Creating Your Perfect Outdoor Space

Your patio should fit how you actually use your backyard. Some families want a cozy space for morning coffee, while others need room for large gatherings or outdoor cooking. We help you figure out the right size and layout based on your lifestyle and property.

Size and Shape Planning

Start by thinking about how you will use the space. A small intimate patio might be 10 by 12 feet for a bistro table and chairs. A family entertaining area typically needs at least 12 by 16 feet to fit a dining table and grill. Larger outdoor living spaces with multiple seating areas can be 20 by 20 feet or more.

Shape matters too. Rectangular patios are simple and efficient, but curved edges or irregular shapes can soften the look and flow better with landscaping. We can extend your patio to wrap around corners, create multiple levels for sloped yards, or design custom shapes that work with your existing landscaping and home architecture.

Surface Finishes and Colors

Plain gray concrete works fine, but you have many options to create something more interesting. Stamped concrete can mimic natural stone, slate, brick, or wood planks at a fraction of the cost of the real materials. Colored concrete lets you choose earth tones or custom shades that complement your home and landscaping.

Texture matters for both safety and appearance. A broom finish provides good traction when wet. Exposed aggregate creates visual interest with decorative stones showing through the surface. You can even combine finishes, using stamped borders with a different texture in the main area. We bring samples to your consultation so you can see and feel different options before deciding.

Integration with Your Yard

A great patio connects naturally with the rest of your outdoor space. We think about how people will move from your house to the patio and from the patio to your yard. Maybe you need a concrete walkway to connect different areas, or steps to handle a grade change.

We also consider drainage carefully. Your patio needs to slope away from your house so water does not pool or flow toward your foundation. We grade the area properly and can add drainage solutions if needed. The result is a patio that works well in all weather and protects your home from water issues.

How We Build Patios That Last Decades

The difference between a patio that cracks and settles after a few years and one that looks great for 30 years comes down to proper installation. We do not cut corners because we know the prep work matters as much as the concrete itself.

First, we excavate the area to the correct depth and remove any grass, roots, or organic material that could cause settling. We check the soil conditions and compact everything thoroughly. If your soil is clay-heavy or has drainage issues, we address those problems before moving forward. A stable base is critical for long-term performance.

Next, we add a gravel base layer and compact it in lifts to create a solid foundation. This base helps with drainage and provides a stable platform for the concrete. We set up forms to create the shape and install reinforcement to prevent cracking. For patios, we typically use wire mesh or rebar depending on the size and planned use.

When we pour the concrete, our crew works efficiently to spread, level, and finish the surface before it begins to set. We create proper slope for drainage and add control joints to manage expansion and contraction. The finishing process depends on your chosen surface texture, whether that is a simple broom finish or elaborate stamped patterns.

After pouring, proper curing is essential for strength and durability. We protect the concrete and keep it moist during the curing period. Your patio will be ready for light use in a few days, but we recommend waiting a week before placing heavy furniture. This attention to detail ensures your patio performs well for decades. If you are planning other outdoor projects, check out our decorative concrete options for coordinating finishes.

Common Questions About Concrete Patios