Spring is on the way and that means we can all begin thinking about outdoor projects, right? Our  next few blogs will be focused on outdoor home improvement projects. 

The days are getting are getting longer and we need a space to enjoy the extra sunlight-let’s talk patios.

Patio Surfaces: What Are Your Options?

Patio Stones
Patio stones are flat square or rectangular blocks of pressed concrete or clay.  Patio stones are manufactured in numerous dimensions and thicknesses. They are also available in a range of colors. Choose a color that blends with your garden or house, or make a patterned floor with two different colors. Patio stones are especially attractive when combined with an edging of a contrasting material. Consult a St. Louis Area masonry supplier for recommendations - www.kirchnerblock.com can point you in the right direction)!

Stone and Slate
Stone and slate are natural materials that are usually cut in standard widths and lengths, but the thickness of the pieces will vary with the stone and the cutting. The variable thickness makes the material more challenging to install, but nothing a professional can’t handle. Natural stone and slate pieces are also a bit more expensive than manufactured patio stones. Check out www.ewgroupinc.com for products and ideas.

One way of utilizing stone and slate is called "crazy paving,"  broken pieces of stone set in attractive, random patterns. This type of patio surface is the most difficult to lay properly. Because the mortar joints of a patio are the weakest point, the stone pieces must be as tight as possible to each other. This requires breaking and trimming the irregular shaped pieces. Experienced installers can break stone by hitting a piece of rebar or pipe that they’ve placed along the desired break line.  Make sure you let the professionals deal with this technique.  Visit www.masonrystlouis.com/faq.php for a list of residential mason contractors in the area.

Bricks
Bricks are a popular building material for patios and terraces. There are so many variations that your choice can be very personal except for the weather rating. In Missouri, we mostly use SW (Severe weather) bricks that can stand up to our notorious weather changes. Visit www.brick.com for suggestions.

Gravel
Gravel is sometimes thought of  as the poor cousin of outdoor surfaces, but gravel courtyards can be not only inexpensive but comfortable and very charming as well. As with other paving materials, gravel also is available now in a range of color choices and textures. You can edge the patio area with rock slabs, bricks or pavers to give your yard a more finished look.

When choosing your best patio option, consider the style of your house and garden, and the use you’ll make of the space. It’s harder to place furniture on some of the rough textured surfaces. If you have children, be sure to avoid anything that might produce an uneven surface, even after some years of settling.

Whatever you select, have fun and enjoy the sun!