Choosing the Best Patio Material

When you decide to build a patio, one of the first things you may choose to do is look at all the different possible materials available. Each of the many pages will probably list the qualities of the product and stress why that item is better than all the rest. While there are strengths to each, it is important to recognize the disadvantages of the individual materials as well. Here are four factors to consider when choosing the best material for your home patio construction project.

Material Performance

Patio materials should be resistant to your area weather conditions and sturdy enough to withstand family gatherings, foot traffic, and the earth’s shifting movements. It is also important to know if the flagstone, brick, pavers, gravel, or concrete will maintain the material’s true color over the years, or if the sun’s UV rays will bleach the product to a hue you may not enjoy.

Construction Costs

Patio construction costs can be difficult to estimate because of the different materials, size, and depth of the desired area. Discussing the project with a patio contractor can help establish an estimated budget and give you an idea of how long the project will take to complete.

Quality Categories

Most materials have different grades that can be used to create your patio. The higher the grade quality, the more expensive the material will become. The lower the quality, the poorer the performance and expected life span of the patio.

Structural Suitability 

The life of the material you choose for your patio will often determine the strength and use of the surface. If you fear the material will disintegrate or crumble with age, it is best not to use it. Other materials, such as stones or rocks, can last the lifetime of the house.

To identify the best material for your area, contact a contractor that understands patio construction.  He or she can help you choose the best patio material at the most reasonable cost.