Concrete Patios

Why Choose a Concrete Patio

Your backyard should be a place where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. A concrete patio gives you a solid, level surface that is ready for furniture, grills, fire pits, or whatever you need for outdoor living. Unlike wood decks that rot, warp, and need constant maintenance, concrete patios last decades with minimal care.

Here in Wilkes-Barre, we know outdoor spaces take a beating from weather. Concrete handles freeze-thaw cycles, summer heat, and everything in between. It does not attract termites, does not need staining or sealing every year, and stays level and stable over time. A well-built concrete patio becomes a natural extension of your home living space.

Concrete patios also offer excellent return on investment. They increase your usable outdoor space, make your yard more functional, and boost property value. When potential buyers see a quality patio, they see a ready-to-use outdoor area that adds to the appeal of your home.

Design Options for Your Patio

One of the best things about concrete patios is the design flexibility. You are not limited to a basic gray slab anymore. Modern concrete techniques let you create a patio that matches your style and complements your home.

Shape and size are completely customizable. We can create rectangular patios, curved edges, multi-level designs, or irregular shapes that work around trees and landscaping. The only limit is your imagination and your yard space. We help you design a layout that maximizes function while looking great.

Surface finish matters too. A broom finish provides slip resistance and works well for any patio. Smooth troweled finishes create a sleek modern look. Stamped concrete lets you get the look of expensive stone or pavers at a fraction of the cost. Each finish option has its own character and benefits.

The Installation Process

Building a quality patio takes more than just pouring concrete. The process starts with planning your space and understanding how you will use it. We measure your yard, discuss your vision, and design a patio that fits your needs and budget.

Site preparation is critical. We excavate the area to the proper depth and ensure the ground is level and compacted. Proper drainage is essential, so we grade the patio to direct water away from your house. A base layer of crushed stone provides stability and helps with drainage.

Forms are built to contain the concrete and create your patio shape. We install reinforcement like steel rebar or fiber mesh to prevent cracking. Then comes the concrete pour. We use high-quality mix designed for exterior use and place it carefully to achieve the right thickness throughout.

Finishing work is where craftsmanship shows. We level and smooth the surface, apply your chosen finish, and create control joints that allow natural expansion and contraction. If you chose stamping or other decorative work, this happens while the concrete is still workable. Finally, we apply a curing compound to help the concrete develop maximum strength.

Your patio needs several days to cure before you can use it. We clean up thoroughly and leave your yard looking great. Once cured, your patio is ready for furniture, gatherings, and years of enjoyment.

Making the Most of Your Patio Space

A patio is more than just a concrete slab. It is an outdoor room that extends your living space. Think about how you want to use the area. Do you need space for a dining table? A spot for a grill and outdoor kitchen? Room for lounge furniture and a fire pit?

Consider the size carefully. A patio should be large enough for your furniture and activities with room to move around comfortably. For dining, plan on at least 12 by 12 feet. If you want multiple zones for cooking and seating, bigger is better. We help you figure out the right dimensions for your needs.

Location matters too. Think about sun exposure and shade. A patio that gets afternoon shade is more comfortable for summer entertaining. Access from your house is important, you want easy flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Views also play a role in positioning your patio for maximum enjoyment.

Do not forget about landscaping. Plants, lighting, and privacy features turn a basic patio into a true outdoor retreat. We can incorporate planters into your patio design or leave space for garden beds. Many homeowners also add walkways connecting the patio to other yard areas.

Caring for Your Concrete Patio

Concrete patios are wonderfully low maintenance, but a little care keeps them looking their best. Regular sweeping prevents dirt buildup and keeps the surface clean. Wash your patio occasionally with a garden hose or pressure washer to remove grime and keep colors bright.

Sealing your patio every few years provides extra protection. A good sealer prevents stains, resists moisture damage, and makes cleaning easier. It also enhances color if you have a decorative finish. We can apply sealer for you, or you can do it yourself as a simple weekend project.

Deal with stains promptly. Oil, grease, and rust can discolor concrete if left too long. Most stains come up with soap and water or specialized concrete cleaners. Avoid using harsh chemicals or deicing salts that can damage the surface. With basic care, your patio will look great for decades.

Common Questions About Concrete Patios