Why Choose a Patio Outdoor projects and upgrades are an exciting part of a homeowner’s design journey. From first moving into exploring the exterior potential, hardscaping is one of the most valuable investments you can make. One of the most common types of outdoor spaces includes the patio—this area is reminiscent of the American dream—a space where you can relax and hang around friends and family. And your patio paradise should be exciting. While you can always go for a traditional look, designing your own space with materials that complement your space is the best choice. Refer to this helpful guide before picking any new elements to work into your landscape. MasterGrass proudly serves Iowa's Ankeny and Altoona communities, improving our community one landscape at a time. Keep reading to Learn more about how to transform your property. Exploring the Potential of a Patio Forget what you think you know about the perfect patio, and instead, imagine the best way to relax comfortably in your backyard. Does that include shade or an overhead structure? Comfortable stone pavers? How about as much seating as the space can hold? This is where the necessity of the design comes in. Choose from many styles and materials to unlock the enjoyment of your home you’ve been waiting for with a new patio. Patios are a significant way to build the value of your property and the overall visual appeal. A beautiful outdoor living space can serve various purposes, including social gatherings or self-care, all in one area. Types of Materials Your style will dictate what types of patio materials would best suit the aesthetic and the patio's location on the landscape, size, and budget. You will have more wiggle room to adjust the appearance of your landscape with the right materials and proper design. During the pre-design stage, consider where you’ll place the patio and if there will be landscaping setbacks (such as evening out the soil or drainage issues). Concrete Concrete is one of the most adaptable, versatile, and affordable materials to utilize in your backyard. The material can be molded into different sizes, which is essential to designing a versatile patio paradise. Several finishes can enhance the appeal of a smooth, tinted, or patterned surface. Create more options with mixed materials. Wood Wooden patios are cozy and blend into more than one design style. The planks can be painted or altered to fit the aesthetic, but at its core, has a stunning quality. There are many types of wood to choose from, but consider them sealed and needing routine maintenance to protect their lifespan. Brick Durable and charming brick structures can assume a lot of styles and colors and have been for hundreds of years. Brick can also be used in different hardscaping projects and structures, including walkways, walls, and providing structure. Stone Classical and stunning. Stone has unique style variations and thicker slabs to prevent cracking and encourage long-lasting structures. Stone is a worthwhile investment for a weather-resistant bonus. What to Consider Before Picking Your Preferred Materials Before selecting the materials, think about the goal for the landscape. Consulting with an expert beforehand to express your vision can avoid complications in the future. One of the biggest concerns is the climate and area you're located in. If you have concerns about excessive heat or constant rains, certain materials will be more endurable than others. Some of your budgets will go to the sturdiness of the material but also the look, so that is something to consider in the long run to avoid constant repairs. After considering budget and durability, the aesthetic you are trying to capture should be next. Sleek, smooth materials correlate with modern designs and outline the minimalist style. Our MasterGrass professionals have the best tools and background knowledge to help you plan your patio. But no matter what, from the process of the design stage to the full patio, have a fun time preparing for your new outdoor living space!