Concrete
Patios
How a concrete patio is built, the finishes you can choose, what it costs, and how to keep it from cracking.
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A concrete patio gives you a durable, low-maintenance outdoor space at a lower cost than pavers or natural stone. It's poured as one solid surface, which means fewer joints for weeds and a clean look that fits almost any yard. Like any concrete work, how long it lasts comes down to what happens under the surface: the base, the reinforcement, and the cure. This page covers how concrete patios are installed, your finish options, what drives the price, and the questions we hear most.
Why Homeowners Choose a Concrete Patio
Concrete is one of the most affordable ways to add usable outdoor living space. It handles furniture, foot traffic, and weather without much upkeep, and it can be finished plain or dressed up with stamping and color to look like stone or brick. Compared to pavers, there's less long-term maintenance and no joint sand to refill.
Our Process
Estimate and Layout
We look at the space, talk through size, shape, and finish, and check how the patio should slope so water drains away from the house.
Excavation and Grading
We clear the area and grade it for proper drainage.
Base Preparation
We install and compact a crushed stone sub-base so the slab has solid, even support.
Forming and Reinforcement
We form the shape and add wire mesh or rebar to control cracking.
Pour and Finish
We pour, screed, and float the slab, then apply your chosen finish.
Control Joints
We place joints so any cracking follows hidden lines instead of showing across the surface.
Cure and Seal
The slab needs time to reach full strength. We advise on when it's ready to use and on sealing to protect the finish.
Finish and Design Options
Broom Finish
Simple, slip-resistant, and budget-friendly. The standard choice for most residential patios.
Exposed Aggregate
A textured surface that shows the stone in the mix, good for grip and a more decorative look.
Stamped Concrete
Pressed patterns and color that mimic stone, brick, slate, or wood for a high-end look.
Smooth or Troweled
A cleaner, more finished surface for a modern, minimal look.
Borders and Bands
Contrasting edges or inlays to frame and break up a larger patio surface.
What Affects the Cost
Concrete patio pricing depends on a handful of things.
Size & Shape
Curves and custom layouts cost more than a simple square or rectangle.
Finish
Stamped and decorative finishes cost more than a standard broom finish.
Base & Drainage
Site prep, drainage work, and base depth needed for the space.
Access
How easy the yard is to get into with equipment.
A written estimate after we've seen the space is the only truly accurate number, and those are free.
How Long It Lasts and Maintenance
A well-built, sealed concrete patio lasts decades with very little work. Keep it swept, reseal every few years, and avoid heavy de-icing salt on the surface. The main causes of early failure are a weak base, no reinforcement, and poor drainage, all of which we handle in the build.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a concrete patio cost?
Concrete patio or pavers, which is better?
How thick should a concrete patio be?
How long before I can use it?
Do concrete patios crack?
Can an existing patio be resurfaced instead of replaced?
Related Services
Considering a decorative finish, a repair, or pavers instead? Take a look at these related pages.
Ready To Get Started
Thinking About A New Concrete Patio?
Call us at (908) 263-8265 or request a free estimate. We'll look at the space, walk you through finish options, and give you a straight written price.