Concrete Patio Construction

Extend your living space outdoors with a custom concrete patio that provides years of enjoyment and adds significant value to your property.

Design Your Perfect Outdoor Space

A well-designed concrete patio becomes the centerpiece of your outdoor living area, providing a stable, attractive surface for entertaining, dining, and relaxation. Unlike wood decks that require regular maintenance, concrete patios offer decades of low-maintenance enjoyment while withstanding New Hampshire's challenging weather conditions.

Modern concrete patio construction offers unlimited design possibilities. Stamped concrete can replicate the appearance of natural stone, brick, slate, or tile at a fraction of the cost. Colored concrete allows you to match or complement your home's exterior colors, while exposed aggregate finishes provide natural beauty and excellent slip resistance.

Size and shape flexibility is another advantage of concrete patio construction. Whether you envision a simple rectangular patio or a complex multi-level design with curves and integrated features, concrete can be formed to match your exact specifications. We can incorporate steps, planters, fire pit areas, and decorative borders to create a truly custom outdoor space.

Construction Process and Techniques

Successful patio construction begins with careful site evaluation and planning. We assess drainage patterns, soil conditions, and proximity to your home's foundation to ensure proper water management. Adequate drainage prevents water from pooling on your patio or flowing toward your home, protecting both the concrete and your foundation.

Excavation depth varies depending on soil conditions and expected use, typically ranging from 6-8 inches. We remove all organic material and unstable soil, replacing it with properly graded aggregate base material. This base is mechanically compacted to provide stable, uniform support for the concrete slab.

Reinforcement is essential for preventing cracks and ensuring long-term durability. We install wire mesh or rebar reinforcement according to engineering specifications, paying special attention to areas that will support heavy items like grills, fire pits, or outdoor furniture. Control joints are strategically placed to control where any shrinkage cracks might occur.

The concrete mix design for patios includes air entrainment for freeze-thaw resistance and appropriate admixtures for the specific finish you've chosen. For colored concrete, integral color provides consistent, fade-resistant results. Stamped patterns require precise timing during the finishing process to achieve crisp, realistic textures.

Proper slope is crucial for patio functionality. We create a gentle slope away from your home, typically 1/4 inch per foot, to ensure water drains away from the structure. This slope is barely noticeable to users but prevents water accumulation that could cause freeze-thaw damage or create slippery conditions.

Customization and Features

Concrete patios can incorporate numerous features that enhance both beauty and functionality. Integrated planters create natural boundaries while adding greenery to your outdoor space. Built-in seating areas eliminate the need for additional furniture while providing permanent, weather-resistant seating options.

Fire pit integration requires special planning and construction techniques. We create proper foundations and heat-resistant barriers to protect the surrounding concrete. Gas line installation for fire features requires coordination with utility companies and licensed gas contractors to ensure safe, code-compliant installations.

Decorative borders and patterns can transform a simple patio into an architectural feature. Contrasting colors, different textures, or geometric patterns create visual interest and complement your home's architectural style. These decorative elements are integral to the concrete, ensuring they won't separate or require individual maintenance. Professional concrete patio contractor services ensure quality results that last.

Lighting considerations should be planned during construction. We can install conduit and junction boxes for future landscape lighting, overhead structures, or ceiling fans. This advance planning saves significant costs compared to retrofitting lighting systems after construction is complete.