Patio Design 101: What Material Should I Choose?

A patio’s quality, look, and durability are all determined by the type of material used. And there are many options for those materials.

Here, we’ll walk through the different possibilities for your patio design — from natural stone to pavers — each of which bring something different to the floor.

Flagstone

Flagstone brings an organic, natural look that’s hard to replicate. Each stone has a unique shape and texture, making it perfect if you’re going for a rustic, earthy aesthetic.

Pros: With flagstone, no two pieces are the same, giving your patio a distinct, custom look. It’s durable and naturally slip-resistant, making it a good choice for various climates.
Cons: Because each piece is unique, installing flagstone can be more labor-intensive and is best handled by a professional. The natural beauty of flagstone comes at a higher price point than some other materials. The average cost of the stone on its own is $2 to $6 per square foot.

Stamped Concrete

If you want the flexibility to mimic pricier materials without the same cost, stamped concrete is worth considering. Concrete is highly malleable and can be molded into different shapes and colors to achieve the look of other materials like brick or different types of stone.

Pros: Stamped concrete can be customized to suit nearly any design preference and is typically more budget-friendly than natural stone.
Cons: It requires periodic sealing to prevent cracks and fading, especially in areas with freeze-thaw cycles. Additionally, it can be slippery when wet, so you may want to consider a textured finish for added grip.

Pavers

Unlike options like flagstone or stamped concrete, which are installed as single, continuous slabs, pavers are individual modular units, which are placed piece by piece to fit a chosen patio design.

This allows for easy repair, as individual units can be replaced without disturbing the entire patio.

Pavers are available in a wide range of materials with their own properties. We break them down here.

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are a manufactured option made from cement and aggregate. They come in various colors, sizes, and textures, allowing for flexibility in your patio design.

Pros: Concrete pavers are affordable and durable, making them a popular choice. They also come in a variety of styles, so we can create intricate patterns to suit your vision.
Cons: They can fade over time and are vulnerable to cracking in freeze-thaw conditions, which may require periodic maintenance or replacement in colder climates.

Natural Stone Pavers

For a high-end, timeless look, natural stone pavers—such as granite, limestone, or travertine—are an excellent choice. They add character and can complement traditional or modern designs.

Pros: Natural stone is durable and has unique color variations that add visual interest.

Cons: These pavers can be more costly and typically require sealing to protect against staining, especially in high-traffic areas.

Brick Pavers

Brick pavers (often made from clay) are kiln-fired for durability and have a classic look that’s great for traditional-style patios.

Pros: These pavers are strong, offer a warm, natural color, and have a timeless appeal that works well in both historic and modern settings.
Cons: Brick pavers have limited color options and are often pricier than concrete. They may also require regular maintenance to prevent moss and weeds from growing between them.

Porcelain Pavers

Porcelain pavers are made from high-compression clay and fired at extremely high temperatures, creating a dense and durable product. They’re available in various styles and can mimic the look of stone or wood.

Pros: Porcelain pavers are resistant to stains, scratches, and fading, making them a low-maintenance option that retains their appearance over time.

Cons: They can be slippery when wet, and because they’re more fragile than other materials, professional installation is recommended to prevent breakage during installation.

Bluestone Pavers

Bluestone, a type of sandstone with a signature blue-gray color, is known for adding a sophisticated touch to patios. It’s ideal for those wanting a natural stone option with a modern, elegant feel.

Pros: Bluestone is highly durable and visually striking, perfect for creating an upscale look that stands out.

Cons: Bluestone can be costly (often in the $30 per square foot range) and may retain heat, making it less comfortable in hot, sunny climates without adequate shading.

Final Considerations for Choosing Patio Materials

When it comes to choosing the materials for your patio design, there are four main things to keep in mind:

Climate: Materials like concrete may crack in areas with freeze-thaw cycles, while natural stones may require more maintenance in harsh climates.
Maintenance: Consider how much upkeep each material requires; for instance, stamped concrete may need regular sealing.
Budget: Natural stones and custom pavers generally have a higher upfront cost than stamped concrete or concrete pavers.
Aesthetics: Pick a material that complements your home’s architecture and your style preferences.

In the end, each patio material has its strengths and considerations. You should choose the one that best matches your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

If you’re interested in learning more about any of these materials, we’re here to help guide you through the options. And we can help you with the design and installation process.