There is nothing more boring than a plain slab of poured concrete for a patio. But if you insist on using it, consider a stamped pattern that is dyed with a colouring agent for a more natural look. Be aware of the maintenance issues with this type of patio. You have to reapply the coating about every three years so it doesn’t lose its color. They can also show surface cracks and the color wears off in heavily trafficked areas. In frost-free zones, concrete is often the material of choice.
Natural Stone
For a completely natural look, nothing beats natural stone for a patio. There are many different types of natural stone to choose from including flagstone, slate, blue stone, sandstone and limestone. Natural stone costs more because it is naturally mined and shaped by hand.
It costs more to install because it takes longer to lay down. The varying thicknesses mean that each piece has to be put in place then lifted so the bed it rests on can be raised or lowered to make it level. Let the materials you already have on your house dictate the type of material you might have on your patio. If you have limestone on your house, then you might want limestone on your patio.
Brick
The paving product of choice for patios in Cork generally is cobble setts. It adds an old world look to a patio but its maintenance issues make it less of choice for today’s outdoor living spaces.
Brick is porous so it retains moisture. In freezing weather, it cracks so it has to be replaced. In shady areas, slippery moss grows on the bricks and it has to be scrubbed off using a bleach solution and brush. In sunny areas, the moss problem is not as profound but still grows and has to be cleaned off otherwise walking on it can be treacherous
Block Paving
There are now many different shapes, colors and patterns available in manufactured paving stones than ever before from such manufacturers as Kilsaran, Roadstone, Barleystone and Tobermore.
Even high-end homes now sport paving stone patios. Paving are manufactured stones that are all the same thickness so they go down easily and quickly saving you time and money. There are even circle kits that can allow for curving shapes and circle patios to add extra dimensions and patterns to your patio area.
Call the experts at Ideal Drives today for a free quotation on driveway paving and patio installations throughout Cork and Waterford. Unbeatable prices combined with top quality workmanship.