Say Goodbye To Concrete: The Patio Alternative That Still Looks Great

Whether you're looking to update an existing outdoor patio or are starting a new project from scratch, choosing the right material sets the foundation for how the patio will look and hold up over time. Many people opt for concrete as their base material due to how common it is, without realizing there are alternatives available that provide even more durability and longevity. 

There's no doubt that concrete is durable, but a resin bound patio provides numerous advantages over the traditional, often standard material. Resin bound patios specifically provide better drainage and less upkeep over time. There's also the added bonus of customization, which outshines concrete in several ways.

To choose the best material for your project, it's important to understand what each one is comprised of. First, concrete is a mixture of cement, water, and gravel that is poured and hardens into a solid structure. Resin bound pavement, on the other hand, refers to a surface that is made up of small stones. Some of the most common varieties include natural gravel for a neutral look or granite and quartz for a decorative finish. These stones are mixed with a type of resin to form a smooth finish. At first, these two might seem similar in their makeup, yet beyond the surface lies a crucial difference in drainage, a key element to consider when navigating small patio backyard ideas.

When you think of concrete, you might imagine a solid surface that's strong and able to withstand the elements. While incredibly durable, concrete patios are actually not a permeable surface, which means that any excess water must run off of them rather than draining through. With this, your patio is susceptible to puddling or even long-term damage if you live in an area with freezing temperatures. Resin bound patios have the added bonus of letting water drain through the surface, thanks to the small gaps between the stones.

Choosing outdoor flooring for a refreshed and upgraded oasis also involves considering costs for maintenance and upkeep over time. Concrete is notorious for cracking, and repairs can come with a steep price tag if the damage goes beyond just a cosmetic issue. A resin bound patio can help take away some of that concern because the bonded structure offers more flexibility than a rigid concrete structure. Another added perk when it comes to upkeep is resin bound patios resist weed growth. No more bending over to pluck weeds from every little crack when the weather warms up!

Resin bound patios also offer more flexibility when it comes to the finished look. The level of customization with surfaces is thanks to the types of stones used, as they offer different colors and textures. This makes it easier to choose a color palette to match your patio furniture or create a standout look compared to a gray concrete slab. Additionally, some resin bound surfaces are also made with UV-stable resin, which can help reduce yellowing of the aggregate blend over time.