Concrete patio ideas
by
Checkatrade

Not just for driveways and garden paths, concrete is ideal for creating a patio space made for outdoor dining and entertaining. You might assume a concrete patio is simply a dull slab with the odd crack here and there, but there are plenty of ways you can landscape concrete to make it stylish and tailored to your home.

Providing great design versatility and durability, concrete is extremely popular with landscapers and homeowners looking to create a patio space that requires minimal upkeep. We’ve put together some of our favourite concrete patio ideas as inspiration for those looking to redesign their outdoor living space. Want to see the costs of installing a concrete patio?  Then check out our patio cost guide.

Different types of concrete

Stamped concrete

Stamped concrete is a popular material for outdoor patios. It’s easy to create the look of higher-end materials on a budget. With the right workmanship, stamped concrete can mimic the look of natural stone at a much lower cost.

With a range of options available, stamped concrete can be poured to almost any size, shape, texture, colour and pattern, so you can achieve a unique look that complements your home. This type of concrete can be coloured using stains, powdered pigments and antiquing agents. This enables you to replicate the look of other natural materials.

Stained concrete

Want to create a unique design on your patio? You can add custom graphics, hints of colour and borders using specialist stains. Stained concrete offers permanent colour that will last for years to come.

Exposed concrete

Exposed aggregate concrete is another type of concrete often used for patios. This is simply concrete combined with a decorative aggregate to create different textures and patterns.

Offering a combination of stylish aesthetics, longevity and mouldability, exposed aggregate concrete is great for patio flags/slabs, footpaths and even decorative vertical walls.

Concrete patio design options

Modern concrete patios

Perfect for contemporary homes, modern concrete patios are generally angular with a smooth texture and large tile in white or charcoal grey.

Faux stone concrete patios

Using concrete to mimic the look of stone is a great cost-effective option. It’s easy to install and to maintain.

Colourful concrete patios

Concrete offers more colour options than any other type of patio. You can achieve unique effects to enhance the look of your outdoor space and give your garden real personality.

Preparing the ground for installation

How you prepare the ground for a concrete patio will depend on the style, size and shape of the patio you’re creating.

In general, you will need to dig the ground to the depth of your concrete slab and smooth out the ground. Make sure it is completely level. You may also need to add sand or gravel for soil drainage.

Aftercare of a concrete patio

Once you have installed your patio, it pays to look after it. There are simple maintenance steps you should take to ensure it stays in tip-top condition.

The best way to clean your patio is to use a stiff broom and warm soapy water. We’d also advise cleaning up any spills and stains as soon as possible to prevent discolouration or staining.

Of course, there’s no need to take on the task of a concrete patio yourself. Enlisting professional help will give you the results you want without the hassle.

If you’re considering installing a concrete patio in your outdoor space, use our Checkatrade search to find a trusted and monitored tradesperson in your local area.