Here in Central Florida, we love the outdoors, and one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors is by installing a patio. With so many different building stone options for patios on the market these days, how do you choose the best stone for you? Here are a few factors to consider:
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting the best building stone for your patio is the space you have available to you. If you have a smaller area to install your patio, you should consider using brick or smaller paving stone sizes for the design. Using large paving stones may make the patio seem smaller or out of place.
Nothing is worse than starting the construction of a big patio project only to discover that you needed to file a building permit to begin construction, or that your homeowners association prohibits the use of a particular color of stone. It is best to check with your local building department and/or HOA to make sure that you have all of the proper paperwork for construction in place before starting the project.
What do you plan to use your patio for? It makes a difference in the patio stone you select for the project. Are you looking for a small space to sit out and enjoy some sun on a beautiful day? Or are you installing a patio to increase your living space by adding an outdoor dining area or fireplace for entertaining guests?
For example, if you are designing your patio to be part of a larger pool area you might select travertine pavers for the design. Travertine pavers work well around pools because they reflect the hot sun away, and the porous quality of the stone creates a surface that is far less slippery than most other poolside paving surfaces.
Another factor to consider is the color and texture you want for your patio area. Maybe you want the color of the patio stone to match or complement your home exterior. The type of paver you select will depend on the effect you hope to evoke in that area.
Cost should not be the only factor you consider before purchasing patio stone, but it is something that should be part of the decision process. Patio stone materials such as concrete and brick generally cost less than concrete paving stones, and natural stone pavers and travertine will be the most expensive options available to you.
Concrete tends to crack and lose its color (if you are using any sort of tint or finishing process) if it is not maintained correctly. Brick should be cleaned often and re-sealed every 2 to 3 years to maintain its beauty and color. Natural stone requires less maintenance and paving stones reside somewhere in the middle between the two extremes (depending on the composition of the paver). If you are someone who likes to complete a project and forget about it, consider using materials that require little or no care to maintain them.
Bedrock Orlando supplies brick, concrete and brick pavers, and travertine pavers in a variety of colors and sizes for your backyard construction projects. If you still need help making a decision on what would work best for your patio project, give us a call at (407) 859-1300 or fill our simple online quote form to get in touch with one of our friendly building stone experts.