Concrete and pavers and slate, Oh My!
One of the most challenging parts of landscape design is the pure volume of options there are for almost every element of your design. Do you want real grass or artificial turf? Do you prefer brick or slate for your outdoor fireplace? What type of wood do you want your patio cover to be made of? The possibilities are virtually endless when it comes to landscape design!
While it can be great to have so many patio options, for those of us that struggle with making big decisions in general or those of us that like a lot of different options and can’t pick between them, all the available options can be more of a curse than a blessing.
If this sounds like you, you’re not alone, and when it comes to patio spaces, weighing the options is not as daunting as it may seem.
Read on to get some helpful guidance on the types of stone options available for patios, the pros and cons for each, and how to select the best option for your unique space.
Different types of stone and materials for patios
When designing your patio, one of the first – and most important – things you’ll need to decide is what material will be the foundation of your space! Depending on where you live, your budget, and what you plan to use your patio for, some options are better than others, but a few patio materials are popular here in the PNW that are both beautiful and hold up to our winter weather.
Slate
Slate is a very popular choice because it comes in a variety of colors and looks very unique, natural, and organic. Slate is also non-slippery and super durable, so it’s a great option for families or if you know your patio will get a lot of use throughout the year.
Pavers
Pavers can be used in a few different ways in your landscape, like for paths and driveways, but they are also very popular as the foundation for patios. Since pavers are largely man-made, they come in a variety of shapes and colors, so they can fit almost any design aesthetic. Like slate, they are also fairly cost-effective, non-slippery, and durable.
Concrete
Concrete is probably the most used material for patios because it’s clean, easy to install, cost-effective, and durable. If you know you want concrete but don’t want the simple look of concrete, you can use concrete stamps to bring a unique texture or color to your patio, too.
How do I pick the best stone for my patio?
When you’re faced with the decision to pick a material for your patio design, there are a few things you should consider to help make the decision-making process as smooth and painless as possible.
How do you plan to use your space?
How you plan to use your patio is a crucial part of deciding on a material, because not every option will be the best fit for your unique needs and goals.
Be sure to think about: Is your patio mostly for looks and aesthetics, or are you envisioning more of an entertaining space? Do you have kids and pets? Does your space need to be super durable to accommodate a lot of foot traffic and use? Do you plan to use your patio in the Fall and Winter months when it may be wet?
After evaluating your and your family’s needs, make sure you pick a material that is going to support your lifestyle and how you plan to use the space.
How much do you plan to spend on your patio project?
Patio stone and other materials can get pricey, especially if you need to cover a larger amount of space, so finding an option that fits your budget is very important. If you’re willing to splurge on a higher-end material, pick something like slate, and if you’d rather spend your money elsewhere, you can pick something a little more cost-effective, like concrete or pavers.
What design aesthetic are you going for?
Lastly, you should make sure the material you select for your patio matches your overall design aesthetic and other elements of your landscape. For example, if you have a more modern design, you may want something with cleaner lines, like pavers, or no lines at all, like concrete. Or, if you like a more rustic, natural look and feel, something like slate would be a great option for you!
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Build the patio of your dreams with Greenhaven Landscapes’ design experts
We know that there are a lot of decisions to make when creating your dream yard. Greenhaven has over 25 years of experience designing and building high-quality patios and outdoor spaces for you to enjoy for years. If you’re ready to get started on a backyard or patio overhaul and are looking for the right partner to design and construct your space, contact our team of landscape designers today!