How to choose the best materials for my patio?

Your patio is at the heart of your summer gatherings, your memorable family reunions, your meals and leisure time under the magnificent summer sun. 

It goes without saying that you have to carefully choose the material for the patio, bearing in mind its use, maintenance requirements, your tastes and your budget. 

Here’s a summary of the many materials you can choose from :

1. Paver and slab patio

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Concrete pavers and slabs add a touch of luxury to your patio and the rest of the layout. This type of surface requires little maintenance and is much more durable than wood or composite. They are available in many finishes, shapes, sizes and colours, pavers and slabs fit with all types of décor and increases your home’s value! 

One advantage of this type of patio is that they are durable and remain beautiful for years. Though they can seem expensive at first, they are worth the investment.

In addition, with the price of wood and composites these days, concrete slab surfaces are now the more affordable choice for low patios, namely those less than 21 inches high. Of course, costs vary depending on the surface being covered and the desired patio height.

2. Wood deck

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Natural wood, treated or not, gives warmth to any space. If you prefer to do the work yourself, you will like this option because installation is fast and easy.

Be aware that this is the material that requires most maintenance. It needs to be stained to be protected against ageing. The process must be repeated after a certain number of years, depending on the quality of the wood, its location, and the weather it is exposed to.

Ultimately, wood is a generally affordable and accessible solution. However, with the sharp rise in prices we’ve seen lately, and the scarcity of the product, it is wise to prepare in advance and compare the various options you have before finalizing your choice!

3. Composite deck

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Composite resists humidity, stains and hardly discolours, which makes it far less maintenance-intensive than wood. It comes in a wide variety of colours, which makes it a fit with a vast array of styles. 

Installing it is more complicated and takes longer than wood. If you plan on composite for your deck, plan ahead; it has been in short supply for some time, and shortages equate to high prices.

4. Natural stone patio

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Natural stone is a noble, robust material that greatly adds value to your home. There are two types of stone: cut and uncut. The first is similar to concrete slabs and pavers. The second is authentic stone in its original form. If you prize a very natural or rustic look, you will love it! 

This choice of surface is slightly more expensive than the previous ones. In addition, because the stone is natural, its colour may vary between lots, which can sometimes produce unexpected results.

5. Porcelain tile patio

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With their ultra-contemporary feel, porcelain tiles give your patio a look of unparalleled prestige. This type of material is highly resistant to stains and scratches, keeps its colour and needs little maintenance. Its smooth finish pleasantly caresses your feet.

Porcelain is the most expensive option listed in this article. Keep in mind that it is not designed for heavy loads. For example, it cannot be used in a driveway, but can serve for pedestrian traffic. Its installation requires careful planning!

Now that you know the various options available for installing your patio, you are better placed to make the right choice.

Our designers can create your landscaping plan and guide you in the realization of your patio. Tell us all about your project now! 

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