Richmond Concrete Pros - Patios and Pavers |
![]() Concrete Options for Patios There are multiple options when it comes to using concrete for patios. The following offers a brief explanation of each so home and business owners can make the best choice for their needs. Concrete can be impregnated with color or a colored epoxy can be used on the top to seal in the concrete and make it beautifully shine. Epoxy affords beautifully to all types of design elements. Stamped concrete is also an excellent option for patios. Concrete can be stamped in a wide array of methods. It can be made to look just like natural stones and other materials but requires much less maintenance. Stamped concrete can also add a decorative element to all types of designs. Stained concrete lasts for many years because the concrete material soaks up the stain deep into the layers. Concrete can be subtly or vividly stained, depending on the wishes of the owner and the application. Stamped concrete gives you a huge array of decorative options, many more than with other materials. The patio can be colored to look like stone or virtually any color to match your home or surroundings. Plus concrete can be poured into any shape, giving you a large number of options. Exposed aggregate can create a stunning patio that is easy to keep clean and durable. This type of concrete is created by simply removing the outermost layers to reveal the beautiful aggregate that lies below. Engraved concrete can also be used to create stunning decorative elements for trim. Using special tools, concrete experts engrave the concrete and create amazing and even intricate designs that accent the other types of concrete that have been laid. Note about Virginia soils The mid-Atlantic region has a type of soil called Virginia Marl that can cause problems with paving due to its expansive properties. In fact you cannot pave on it. It must be removed and replaced with gravel to garner the proper compaction for a good foundation. The Richmond area is prone to this problem. How are Pavers Made and Used? Pavers can be made into different shapes and are typically used for outdoor flooring, such as walkways and patios. Concrete pavers are often made in a factory setting. The concrete is poured into specially shaped molds and coloring is added. Interlocking pavers can be made, and they are even being used in some parts of the world for road construction. Pavers are preferable for exterior construction because they allow water to filter through and are forgiving when it comes to soil changes. Pavers can be made into decorative tiles that highlight a distinctive part of a landscape or interior. Pavers are easy to install in most areas. A layer of simple concrete is poured, and then sand is added to the top. The pavers are laid out on top of the sand and concrete mixture in the desired pattern. The weight of the pavers and the sand and concrete hold them in place without the need for a mortar application. Unlike concrete slab applications, there is no cracking. Pavers are ideal for patios, walkways, and architectural design elements. The first pavers were shaped like bricks, but there is now a range of options for residential, commercial, or even industrial needs. Costs While costs can vary widely depending on what part of the country you live in, it has been our experience that costs can be generalized as follows: - A basic concrete patio typically runs from $6 to about $10/Sq ft - A custom patio can run from $10 to $15/Sq ft - A patio that has curves and complex stamping can run over $15/Sq ft - A typical rectangular patio that is 20 feet by 20 feet will run from $2400 to around $4000 These costs are typical for the Richmond, Va. area. Home |
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