Patio Makeovers

 Without a doubt, patios have now become more of an integral part of the house rather than just a concrete pad sitting forlornly in the back yard. But as patios are increasingly used for outdoor dining, BBQ’s or just a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, that old, dull and maybe cracked concrete pad is most likely in desperate need of a bold makeover to meet the changing requirements.

A number of options are possible for transforming existing concrete pads, depending on the state of the concrete and individual preferences. Existing concrete can be stained, given a textured coating or a stenciled tile pattern applied. Traditional tiles are available in a multitude of colours and styles and a variety of natural stone products such as sandstone, limestone, slate or granite could be considered. Another option is to use new or reclaimed bricks or clay pavers.

Perhaps one of the simplest, most cost effective and attractive options however, is to lay down modular wood deck tiles. These tiles are typically available as 12’ x 12’’ squares and are easily installed by just clicking the modules into place. The tiles have special plastic tabs built in to the base which keeps them firmly in place and avoids the need for any particular surface preparation, adhesives or other fixings. A typical patio area can be fully laid in just an hour or so and is ready to use immediately. Some manufacturers produce tiles in a variety of different designs, so it is possible to create borders, centerpieces, feature areas etc. to suit your individual preference.

A select range of ceramic interlocking tiles are also now available which gives even more opportunities to create individual patio designs. These tiles are designed to interlock precisely to the wood tiles, so for example you could have a central patio area paved in the ceramic tiles where tables and chairs are situated, surrounded by wood tiles. With the addition of some large pots, attractive plants and maybe a favorite piece of sculpture, that dull patio can easily become a place you can be truly proud of again.

About the Author

Malcolm Kay is the CEO of Intex Pacific Pty. Ltd. an exporter of modular decking tiles. For further information, see www.ezydeck.net

 Malcolm Kay

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