For years, poured concrete has remained the most preferred choice for building a backyard patio by patio or pool house contractors. Today, there are several options available, and many of them are do-it-yourself kinds of things as well. However, this tried and tested mixture of cement and sand still tends to be the favorite of homeowners. But before you consider creating one for your home, you need to consider and beware of certain pros and cons. Let’s discuss!
Pros
Durability
Although concrete can crack as well as chip but it will be decades before it comes to that point since concrete is highly durable and is proven to last decades. Furthermore, unlike pavers or bricks and natural stone, a concrete slab does not shift and if you were to add rebar, a large pour can be made stronger. However, you need to remember that decorative concrete dyes can and will fade with time. Even though the structure will remain strong but the finish might require occasional restoration.
Design
While repairing might make you despise concrete but the fact that you can make any design, shape or size, will tempt you again to reconsider it. Considering the huge variety of dyes, colors, and stamps available, you have an unlimited number of patio design options at your disposal. Furthermore, you can get a custom patio designed for your house that matches the color scheme of your garden or the house itself.
Cost And Installation
If you plan on building a concrete patio on your own, know that it might not be an ideal choice if you are inexperienced. Otherwise, decorative concrete is both easier and faster to install as compared to any other type of material. Therefore, even if you choose to hire an expert masonry, there is going to be no problem dealing with concrete and related materials.
Cons
Maintenance And Repair
While the maintenance of concrete is simple, there is a negative side to it as well when it comes to repairing. The problem is that concrete in areas where the temperatures are either extremely low or high can crack. In such cases, repairing concrete cracks is not only expensive but very difficult as well. To repair or fix even a minor crack, sometimes a major portion has to be torn up and then poured again. And then there is the added inconvenience of matching decorative concrete. The process can be frustrating and continuity might be close to impossible to achieve.
Safety
A major con you need to consider when choosing a concrete patio for your house is that concrete can become quite slippery in areas that experience heavy rain and mists early in the morning or evening. However, opting for a textured design will solve the problem. Furthermore, if cracks or chips appear, leaving it unrepaired will pose a serious trip hazard.
Wood Vs Concrete Porch
One of the reasons homeowners tend to look for concrete alternatives is because they want something unique for their house other than the boring concrete. Wood is what comes to mind but it has its advantages and disadvantages as well. Wooden patios or porches are not able to withstand as much foot traffic as concrete patios. Furthermore, some can catch fire as well but you can avoid that if you were to select exceptionally hardwoods for the purpose that are designed to prevent flammability.
On the other hand, wooden porches can expand and contract depending on the temperatures, reducing the chances of cracks or chips, as in the case of concrete. Therefore, in some ways, a wood deck is more advantageous than a concrete porch. It all comes down to what you prefer, can afford, and maintain.
Final Word
In the end, regardless of what material you use to build a patio, it is going to have its share of advantages and disadvantages. Since concrete has been long used for creating concrete patios, one can understand where the trust comes from. Therefore, considering the pros and cons and your budget for a patio, along with the advice of hardscaping company Port Jefferson, decide if a concrete patio is going to be the most suitable choice for your home. Stones and bricks may look more appealing, but concrete is a better option if you are considering durability and a longer lifespan.
