Concrete Patios

Why Concrete Patios Are the Smart Choice

Your backyard should be a place where you actually want to spend time. A concrete patio gives you a solid, level surface for everything from family barbecues to quiet morning coffee. Unlike wood decks that rot, warp, and need constant staining, or pavers that settle unevenly and grow weeds between the cracks, a concrete patio stays flat and functional with almost no maintenance. Working with an experienced concrete patio contractor ensures your outdoor space is built to last through decades of use and Colorado weather conditions.

Here in Thornton, we know what Colorado weather does to outdoor structures. The freeze-thaw cycles that destroy other materials barely affect properly installed concrete. When we build your patio, we start with proper site preparation including grading for drainage, compacted base material, and reinforcement that keeps your patio strong for decades. You get a surface that handles furniture, foot traffic, grills, and fire pits without cracking or settling.

The design options are better than most people realize. Plain gray concrete is fine, but you can also choose from exposed aggregate finishes, colored concrete, stamped patterns that look like stone or tile, or smooth troweled finishes. We help you pick the right finish for your style and budget. Plus, concrete stays cooler underfoot than composite decking in summer heat, and it never splinters.

Benefits of Choosing a Concrete Patio

• Durability: Lasts 30 years or more with minimal maintenance compared to 10 to 15 years for wood decks
• Low upkeep: No annual staining, sealing, or replacing rotted boards
• Cost effective: Lower lifetime cost when you factor in maintenance and replacement
• Weather resistant: Handles rain, snow, sun, and temperature swings without damage
• Design versatility: Available in multiple colors, textures, and patterns to match your home
• Safe surface: No splinters, nails, or uneven boards to trip on

Custom Patio Design and Size Options

We design patios to fit how you actually use your backyard. A small patio for a table and chairs might be 10 by 12 feet. If you want room for a larger dining set, seating area, and grill space, you might need 16 by 20 feet or bigger. We can create multi-level patios with steps between sections, curved edges that flow with your landscaping, or geometric shapes that complement your home architecture.

The shape matters as much as the size. Rectangular patios are practical and cost effective. Curved or circular designs add visual interest. L-shaped patios can wrap around corners of your house or define separate zones for dining and lounging. We take measurements, look at your yard layout, consider sun exposure and drainage, then recommend a design that works with your space and budget.

Borders and accents can enhance the look. A contrasting border around the perimeter adds definition. Scoring patterns or decorative saw cuts create visual sections without extra cost. If you want something more distinctive, we offer stamped concrete patterns that mimic natural stone, brick, or tile at a fraction of the cost of the real materials.

The Patio Installation Process

Every quality patio starts below ground. We excavate to the proper depth based on your soil conditions, typically 6 to 8 inches. Then we establish the grade to slope away from your house at about 2 percent. This drainage slope is crucial. Water needs to flow away from your foundation, not pool on your patio or drain toward your home.

After grading, we install and compact a gravel base. This provides drainage and a stable foundation that resists settling. We set forms to the exact dimensions and height you need. Concrete for patios is usually 4 inches thick, which is plenty for foot traffic and outdoor furniture. We add wire mesh or fiber reinforcement to control any minor cracking and give the concrete added strength.

The pour and finish are where craftsmanship shows. We place the concrete evenly, screed it level, then apply your chosen finish. Broom finish provides traction. Smooth trowel finish looks clean and modern. Exposed aggregate shows the natural stone in the mix. Whatever finish you choose, we make sure it is consistent across the entire patio. Control joints are cut or tooled in to manage where any cracking occurs, keeping it controlled and less visible. Then we protect the surface while it cures for several days before you start using it.

Frequently Asked Questions