What Is The Best Material To Use For A Patio (And Runner-Ups)? (2024)

FAQs

What Is The Best Material To Use For A Patio (And Runner-Ups)? ›

The best material for patios is paver

Concrete – You may be surprised to learn that one of the best choices for a patio material in hot climates is concrete. There are several reasons why this is true. Concrete is comfortable to walk on, even at the hottest time of year, because it doesn't conduct or absorb heat the way some other materials do.

Crushed stone makes a solid paver base because it allows water drainage and is easy to work with. Like sand, crushed stone comes in several varieties. The best aggregate for paver bases is a quarry processed dense grade aggregate.

Natural stone, tile, pavers, and brick are some of the longest-lasting patio materials. These materials are durable and resistant to weather and wear, which makes them a good choice for long-lasting structures.

Gravel. Gravel is, on average, the cheapest material for a patio and requires the least time to install. It can match well with a less landscaped, wilder garden or backyard, and offers great drainage.

Clay and brick pavers will give you that warm and cosy look that you desire! This material will create an attractive and hardwearing surface for your patio, strong enough to withstand constant foot traffic and heavy furniture. You can lay it in different patterns and not have to worry about maintenance.

Gravel is the cheapest option when looking to create a patio on a budget. Otherwise, pebbles or reclaimed materials are also good options. If you're set on laying paving slabs, concrete is one of the cheapest materials, and when installed and maintained correctly, it can hold up well and last for years.

Gravel is one of the most inexpensive patio material options. You'll pay approximately $6-$10 per square foot. It is also easy to install so you can save on the cost of labor if you want to do it yourself. All you have to do is wheelbarrow it in and spread it around.

Along with aluminum, all-weather wicker (also known as synthetic resin wicker) is one of the most common choices for outdoor materials — and it's not hard to see why. This material manages to look both charming and modern while staying protected in any weather condition.

What is best to lay a patio on? ›

Sand can make an excellent base for paving slabs. It is very cost-effective and not too difficult for DIY beginners to work with. If you are unsure how to lay slabs on sand, simply follow the below stages to achieve the garden of your dreams: Firstly, ensure the area is firm, level and well-drained.

Aluminum, wood, vinyl, and fiberglass are all great options, each with their own unique advantages and disadvantages. It is important to consider factors such as cost, maintenance, durability, and aesthetics when selecting the right material for your patio cover.

The best option for your paver base, however, is gravel (¾”-0) or crushed stone (¼”-10). Its ability to drain makes it reliable even in areas with heavy rainfall, and the crushed stones cab double as a solid, reliable bed underneath your hardscape.

Concrete pavers are known for their exceptional durability. They are resistant to cracks, fading, and erosion, making them an excellent long-term investment. Brick pavers also offer great durability as they can withstand heavy loads and extreme temperature changes without deteriorating.

Yes, you can use sand for a paver base. A sand set installation method may be best if a concrete slab is not an option for the base. This system offers permeability and some flexibility.

Whether you are swapping out your old slabs or paving over a grass lawn, porcelain pavers are the ultimate low maintenance patio solution. Not only are they extremely hard-wearing, but porcelain paving is also non-porous, meaning accidental spills and wayward stains cannot penetrate the surface of the slab.

Natural Stone

It's been around forever. Bluestone, granite, and marble are some examples of natural stone. It boasts the highest durability and has a wide array of variety and color. The downfall is that it's the most expensive option.

It's cheaper to build a concrete patio in terms of both the initial cost to lay a concrete patio, as well as its cost of maintenance over time. A concrete patio costs only $4 per square foot, while a deck costs roughly $6 per square foot for lower-cost pressure treated lumber.