Are you looking to create a beautiful and functional outdoor living space? A place where you can relax and entertain in style?
In our previous blog, “Transform Your Outdoor Space: A Guide to Crafting Your Dream Patio Design.” we offered practical tips and inspiration for designing the perfect patio for your home. This time we’ll build on those ideas and offer even more insights into creating a truly exceptional outdoor space that you’ll love to spend time in.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to update an existing patio, we will help you achieve your dream outdoor oasis.
A Comprehensive Guide to Achieving the Perfect Patio Installation in Cambridge.
A patio can be a beautiful and functional extension of your home, providing a comfortable outdoor space to relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of nature. However, choosing the right materials for your patio design is essential to ensure that your outdoor space is both beautiful, durable and easy to maintain.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of patio materials available, and the factors you should consider when choosing the right materials for your next patio build.
Durability
When thinking about patio ideas, durability is a critical factor to consider. You want materials that can withstand exposure to the elements, heavy foot traffic, and other wear and tear. Some of the most durable patio materials include:
Concrete: Concrete is a highly durable yet affordable material for high-traffic areas. Concrete pavers are long-lasting due to their resistance to harsh weather and ability to withstand freezing without cracking. They have higher compressive strength compared to slab concrete and can adapt to temperature changes through their smaller size and more joints, reducing the risk of cracking.
Pavers: A paver is a stone made of concrete, natural stone, clay brick or even porcelain. Interlocking pavers offer superior durability, they are strong, stable, and able to accommodate expansion and contraction without cracking -typically, they are small pieces that vary in size. Homeowners have a choice of various colours, textures, and patterns. Plus, their easy maintenance makes them a better option than concrete slabs for enhancing the look of your outdoor space.
Natural Stone Patio: Stone is another durable option for patio paving materials, and it comes in a variety of natural stone paving, including natural slate paving, natural granite paving, and natural limestone paving – ideal for areas with extreme weather conditions, such as hot climates or areas with heavy rainfall. The longevity and durability of stone has long been apopular choice for long-lasting structures, such as historic landmarks, which have endured for centuries.
Indian Sandstone Paving: Although more expensive, Indian Sandstone paving is a very popular and highly durable material that can be cut into various shapes and sizes. It’s also resistant to weathering and fading, making it a great choice for patios that receive a lot of sun exposure.
Maintenance
Another factor to consider when choosing patio materials is maintenance. You want materials that are easy to clean and maintain, especially if you plan to use your patio frequently. Some of the most low-maintenance patio materials include:
Composite decking: Composite decking is made from a mixture of wood fibres and plastic, making it an attractive and low-maintenance option. To clean your deck, simply use warm soapy water and a soft-bristle brush for a general clean. For a more thorough clean, you can use a jet wash with a pressure not exceeding 3100 PSI to remove surface debris.
Brick Patio Pavers: To keep your patio pavers in top condition, regular maintenance is necessary. Maintaining the appearance of your pavers by removing dirt and debris regularly and sealing them upon installation will ensure their longevity and maintain their fresh appearance for years to come.
Stamped Concrete: Stamped concrete is a type of concrete that has been stamped with a pattern to resemble natural stone or brick. It’s low-maintenance, and periodic cleaning of stamped concrete is straightforward. Regularly sweep and wash the surface to prevent dirt accumulation using a broom, hose, and gentle outdoor cleaner.
Environmental Friendliness
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards eco-friendly patio materials. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option for your patio design, consider:
Bamboo Patio Decking: Bamboo decking is an eco-friendly option that is both durable and sustainable. Bamboo grows quickly and is a renewable resource, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Recycled Plastic Patio Decking: Recycled plastic decking is another eco-friendly option. It’s made from recycled plastic, making it an environmentally friendly choice. It’s also low-maintenance, resistant to weathering and fading, and easy to clean with just soap and water.
Natural Stone: Natural stone, such as slate, granite, and flagstone, is an eco-friendly option that is both durable and sustainable. Natural stone is a renewable resource that is quarried from the earth, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Artificial Grass Patio: Fake grass has become an increasingly popular option for patio design and landscaping due to its environmental friendliness and cost-savings. Artificial turf can conserve thousands of litres of water each year, reduce energy usage for mowing and maintenance, help reduce air and water pollution, and prevent soil erosion.
Cost
Concrete Slabs: Basic concrete slabs start at about £20 per square meter, while high-quality concrete paving that resembles natural materials can cost up to £60+ per square meter.Concrete patio slabs tend to be the most cost-effective option, over natural stone paving slabs or porcelain paving slabs, whilst still having a high quality.
Limestone Paving: also known as “Indian limestone paving,” is a popular choice in the UK due to its resistance to the elements. It has low water absorption, allowing it to dry quickly after rain, making it well-suited to the British climate. In terms of cost, Limestone paving is usually the most economical option among patio materials.
Indian Sandstone: Another popular option for patio materials and typically costs around £40+ per square metre. This versatile stone offers a range of colours and finishes, making it a versatile option that can be incorporated into many different design styles. Sandstone can be a little more expensive than basic concrete, but it offers a unique and timeless look that many homeowners find appealing. Just like other patio materials, Indian sandstone requires some maintenance to keep it looking its best, such as cleaning and sealing, which can add to its overall cost.
Local Patio Installers and Landscape Gardeners in Cambridge
Looking to transform your outdoor space into a stunning oasis? Whether you’re dreaming of a lush garden landscape or a beautiful new patio installation, our expert landscape gardeners in Cambridge are here to help. With years of experience as a top-rated patio installer in Cambridge, we have the skills, knowledge, and equipment to bring your outdoor vision to life.
From choosing the right materials for your patio to designing the perfect garden landscape, we’ll guide you through every step of the process. With our comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to achieve the perfect garden landscaping and patio installation in Cambridge. So why wait? Contact us today to get started!
EDGE & CUT- GARDEN LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE SERVICES CAMBRIDGE
Transform your garden with a stunning patio installation in Cambridge! Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced local patio installers and landscape gardeners in Cambridge.
T: 07985331808, 07961284122