Spring is a great time to start thinking about home projects for the season. One of the most common projects people want to start on are their patios and deck spaces. There are a lot of ways to spruce up these spaces, starting with choosing the materials that make the most sense for your budget, preferences and local building codes. Patios originated as part of Spanish and Spanish American architecture. The word “patio” derived from the Latin word “patere” which means “to lie open.” Patios came about sometime in the 15th century, so needless to say they’ve been a central part of human architecture for quite some time. Below we’re going to discuss some popular materials for your modern-day patio and list some pros and cons about each one.

1. Pavers. An impressive way to rev up your patio game is to install pavers for its surface — they have a timeless look to them that can't be beat. They are on the pricey side however, so if you’re considering them, you will need to start off with a larger budget in order to get the work completed. Their classic appearance is an investment that helps not only your home’s value increase, but can make you feel proud of your beautiful patio and have a hardscape you will definitely want to show off.

2. Flagstone. Flagstone is a wonderful, natural stone-looking option that looks good just about anywhere, especially if there is some greenery nearby. Flagstone comes in a variety of colors that you can pair well with your home’s aesthetic, and there’s one for everyone. Although a gorgeous option, keep in mind that the labor and work that needs to be put in to installing it can be difficult. If you choose flagstone as your patio material, you’ll want to ensure that a professional installs it because they will have all the right tools to get it done for you. Part of the reason flagstone is challenging to work with is because of its sheer weight which requires specialized safety gear to install properly.

3. Concrete. One of the best all around, affordable options is using concrete as a base for your patio. It’s popular because not only is it inexpensive, it can be molded or stamped into just about any shape or design to create something that looks beautiful and expensive. It’s also a great option because it lasts a long time and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. One thing to be aware of when it comes to concrete patios is that there is a susceptibility to the patio freezing and eventually causing cracks or pieces to break off of the patio. Over time you may need to perform some maintenance such as fill in cracks here and there but overall, it’s a durable, inexpensive option to vamp up your patio space.

As you can see, there are many options and things to consider when you’re laying out a new patio or thinking about what materials to use for your new home project. We offer landscaping specialists who have the tools and know how to make your patio whatever you want it to be. For more information or to book a patio consultation, click here to be redirected to our patio portfolio page and contact us to set up a consultation! For more information and resources about choosing materials for you patio, head over to Home Stratosphere here.