Patios
Creating Your Outdoor “Rooms”
Patios have come a long way during the past several years. For any given color scheme, you now have a wide selection of materials and textures at different price points.
The professionals at McClain have installed countless patios using several distinctive materials.
Cement can now be dyed in many different colors. It can also be embossed with your choice of textures or shapes, and there is no good reason to stick with the traditional rectangular approach. The shape of any patio should complement the existing shapes within your surrounding landscape. All of this will lend a much more integrated custom look when compared to plain cement.
Paving stones can be obtained in several different shapes and colors. Pavers have the advantage of being held in-place with coarse, granular sand. A paver patio is not susceptible to heaving (cracking). Individual stones can easily be replaced if they become damaged or stained.
Natural flagstones are available in many different colors. To avoid cracking, flagstones are set on crushed rock. Since these relatively large stones are less susceptible to shifting, there are several options for filling in-between the stones. Many choose to use natural fillers such as moss or bark to create a very relaxed, rustic atmosphere.
Tile is generally the most expensive material and also can provide the most formal expression. There’s a nearly limitless variety of tile sizes, colors, shapes and textures. However, care must be taken to select a tile which is compatible with our freeze/thaw cycles (Terra Cotta and several others are not recommended for use in the Pacific Northwest). Contrasting tiles can be used to create focal points or centerpieces.
Because of the investment involved and the somewhat permanent nature of your new patio, it should be planned very carefully before construction begins. These are just a few of the considerations we will take into account while designing your new patio:
- Size – In general, a patio cannot be “too large.” However, it’s extremely easy to build one that’s just too small. It’s a good idea to use string or tape to outline your planned fixtures and furniture. Make sure there’s plenty of room to walk around it all.
- Shape – A patio should blend-in well with your overall landscaping design.
- Present and Future Purposes – Make sure to allow for any planned lighting, benches, planters, water features, spas, cooking areas, and fire pits or fireplaces. If gas or electric lines may be required in the future, it makes good sense to install them now.
- Focal Points – We are extremely adept at directing attention away from anything that may detract from the mood you are trying to create. As an example: a fountain or flowerbed can be used to divert the eye from that two-story home next door which used to seem like it was towering over your new living space.
- Do Multiple Patios Make Sense? – What types of living spaces are you trying to create? Would it serve you better to break-up the space into several smaller “rooms” linked with tranquil walkways?
“We have enjoyed our McClain Patio for several years. It may be the best investment I have ever made. Our entire family now spends much more time outside.”
Rob Smallwood, Smallwood Construction, Bainbridge Island, WA
Are you ready to realize your dream? Please call us or visit our Contact page to arrange your no-obligation initial consultation.
