How to Pick a Patio Surface Material

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Choosing the size and shape of a new patio seems like the only big decision necessary for adding a patio to your home. However, it's not so simple anymore. Not all patios are simple concrete, and there's much more to consider when it comes to the surface of your new home addition.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Look at the foot traffic to figure out who will be walking on the patio and what it will be used for. It's important not to put something too rough or too smooth near a swimming pool, for example. Simply do a little thinking when it comes to who will be on the patio and how often.

Step2

Examine all your options before making a choice. Determine whether you prefer concrete or flagstone and whether you want gravel or brick. These are just some of the types of surfaces used to create a patio these days. Take a look at everything that's out there before you make your final decision.

Step3

Decide whether or not you'd like to put some additions on your patio. A brick fireplace might look great with a brick patio. However, a brick fireplace on a flagstone patio might look a little off. So take your extras into consideration before you pick your patio material.

Step4

Choose your palette wisely. Concretes, gravel and stones come in all sorts of colors these days and should accent or match your home. If you plan on painting, you might want to choose a neutral color that would go with any color scheme.

Step5

Think about the weather when it comes to deciding what type of surface you'd like to put down. Depending on your climate, one option may be better for shoveling snow than another. Simply take your location into account.