Patio Picks
Patios are one of the most popular options when considering a seating area in your garden. Somewhere to entertain your friends or dine alfresco with family, you want a patio that will look fantastic whilst offering the durability to withstand a lifetime’s worth of wear and tear. So what do you choose?
The three most common materials used for patios are Concrete, Stone or Porcelain. Keep reading to see the pros and cons of each material.
Concrete
The original choice. A low-cost option with a life expectancy of 30-50 years, concrete is an appealing option to those who want durability without the price tag. Other benefits include its fast installation, hardwearing properties and how easy it is to keep clean.
However, as you’d expect with the lower price, the cons of concrete far outweigh the benefits. The most obvious drawback is the look Concrete patios are durable but prone to cracking, especially during periods of heavy frosts. With this in mind, it’s also worth noting that concrete patios are much more difficult to repair and they will likely need sealing every couple of years to maintain them. Another downside is that they cannot be moved. Once your concrete patio is installed, you cannot easily rearrange your garden layout. The patio would need to be removed and a whole new one laid. Lastly, they can be very slippery when wet. This may not seem a big issue, but if your patio is in a heavy-traffic location to access other areas of your garden, you may find it a hazard.
Natural Stone
Sitting in the middle price bracket, there are an array of natural stones offering many versatile styles to suit any garden. There’s no compromise on the durability as natural stone can withstand the frost better than concrete and should any repairs be needed, the individual stones can be replaced by a professional. You can expect a lifespan of around 10 years when laid correctly and regularly maintained. They’re also much less slippery when wet, a subtle but important bonus to avoid falls. Finally, these stone patios are known to greatly enhance an outdoor space and can even increase the value of your property!
The negatives of natural stone can vary, depending on which stone you opt for and where it is positioned in your garden. Be sure to research the properties of the stone you are getting! Whilst they are a sturdy option, due to their porous nature, some stones can flake over time and some will easily scratch. Most will likely require regular maintenance to prevent cracking and other issues. Maintenance can include annual sealing, anti-algae treatment, stain removal and regular cleaning.
Brick
Not as popular as the alternatives, brick patios can give a traditional looking feature in your garden. One of the more environmentally-friendly options they are also relatively low-maintenance and usually require less cleaning than natural stone and concrete. They are frost resistant and have been known to last up to 100 years, a great investment if you have no intention of ever moving house!
On the other hand, brick is one of the more expensive options. A brick patio requires a lot of thorough preparation before it’s installed to ensure a level finish that will last all of those years! This also means that installation is typically slower, especially if the bricks need cutting. Although they require less maintenance, the joins may need topping-up with sand periodically and it’s not uncommon to find some bricks need replacing over time.
Porcelain
These man-made paving slabs have been created with a mix of sand, clay and minerals resulting in a high-performing material that will withstand extreme weather temperatures. Ideal for the British climate, porcelain will not get damaged by frosts or fade from strong sun exposure. It is also great underfoot during the heat as it doesn’t get too hot and it isn’t slippery when wet, perfect for young families and pet-lovers alike. The non-porous nature of the porcelain means that the paving will not stain and they do not require any regular maintenance such as sealants. They can also be easily cleaned with a quick wipe down!
There are limited cons for porcelain. For those on a tight budget, it is a more expensive option due to the cost of the materials and also the more specialist tools required for the installation if the slabs need cutting. As the porcelain paving is very heavy, it may also need more preparation before installation and you should expect your installer to check that the ground can support the weight.
Porcelain patio in the process of being laid.
It’s important to make the right decision. Speaking to a professional will help you to consider all factors and choose the best option for your needs. We’re happy to help if you’re considering a new patio or looking to upgrade your current one, speak to us today!
