Concrete Patio Help

Determine Use

• To determine the most effective layout and design for your concrete patio, decide how you plan to use it. If you entertain on a regular basis, you may want a living room style patio that provides plenty of space for outdoor couches, lounge chairs and other seating options. This type of patio requires a significant amount of space, generally at least a 16-by-18-foot area. A dining style patio provides enough room to accommodate a large table and is usually at least 12 by 14 feet. If you only plan to use your concrete patio for a few lounge chairs, a sundeck style is a good fit. A typical lounge chair is 2 by 6 feet, so decide how many you would like to fit on your patio to determine the amount of space required. A bistro style patio is large enough to fit a bistro table and chairs, so it is an ideal option for a small yard. Once you know which style of patio works best for your family, it is easier to determine the layout.

Consider Placement

• The space required for your concrete patio may dictate where you place it in the yard. However, if you have some flexibility, other factors may play a role as well. Unlike a deck, which is typically attached to the house, a patio may be anywhere in the yard. You may assume that the most functional placement is directly behind the house, but this is not always ideal. Take your yard's sun and shade exposure into account. You may want the patio to receive full sun if you plan to sunbathe, or you may prefer partial shade so it doesn't get too hot in the middle of the day. If the patio is primarily for dining or outdoor entertaining, consider its proximity to the kitchen. Think about the scenery that your yard offers as well, since you may want the patio to take in a prized view while you lounge or entertain.

Pour in Right Temperature

• When pouring the concrete for your patio, waiting for the right weather is essential for proper curing. Postpone pouring on hot, dry, sunny days. Instead, wait until the temperature is between 50 and 60 degrees and the sky is overcast. It also helps if there is some humidity in the air. Be sure to apply a clear curing compound as a final step.

Reinforce the Concrete

• To make sure that your patio is strong enough to hold whatever furniture, barbecue equipment and other accessories that you plan to place on it, you should reinforce the concrete. For the strongest patio, use steel reinforcing materials. Install steel rods, approximately a half inch thick, in the center of the patio in both directions so the patio remains in one piece even if a crack develops.