Outdoor Flooring
Now that we are starting into the winter season, many home improvement enthusiasts are already thinking, planning and preparing for their project for the next summer. Keeping in theme with all things flooring, we’d like to suggest looking into flooring for your patio, sun room, or deck! There are many different types of outdoor flooring, and while this post doesn’t cover them all, we hope it helps you determine the best type of flooring for your outdoor area.
Poured Concrete
Concrete patio flooring is an incredibly popular choice because it is one of the most cost-effective options, and if done correctly, it is a very durable flooring option that can last a life time. Some may consider concrete flooring to be visually dull, but they likely have not considered stamping a pattern into the concrete while it is still wet. This can add a whole new style to your outdoor space!
On the other hand, some dislike poured concrete because it is hard, cold, and noisy to walk on. In the unlikely event that it becomes damaged, it can also be difficult to repair.
Concrete Pavers
If you like the durability of poured concrete, but want an easier installation and simpler repair process, concrete pavers might be right for your patio! Unlike poured concrete, concrete pavers come in tiles or slabs that you simply lay down. Pavers are also popular because they can come with custom features, such as slip-resistance.
Unfortunately, they require a base, and can become uneven with general wear and tear. Weeds can also grow in between the tiles over time, which requires maintenance, and can affect the overall look.
Porcelain Tile
Although it is less cost-effective, porcelain tiles are a beautiful, high-end alternative for patio flooring. Porcelain tends to be light-weight, but durable and naturally slip-resistant. Porcelain tiles also come in a large variety of colors and styles, which makes it a great option for customizing an outdoor space. It is also generally easy to maintain. Porcelain tiles are very durable in all seasons, and can handle the heat of a Colorado July, and the cold January.
One major downside is that it will require a professional to install it, so it isn’t a great option for DIYers.
Ceramic Tile
This is a great affordable alternative to porcelain. Like porcelain, ceramic tiles come in many colors and sizes, but it comes with a serious negative to consider- it is much less durable and weather resistant. Unfortunately, ceramic tile is prone to cracking and damage. Since we get all four seasons here in Northern Colorado, this might not be the best option for a local patio.
Composite Wood or Traditional Wood
Either option will create a cozy, homey feel to a patio or deck.
Composite wood is one of the most durable, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain flooring options. Unlike natural wood, it is resistant to mold, water, and staining, and it does not splinter or rot, since it is made with moister-resistant materials. However, it is about twice the cost of natural wood.
Traditional wood is also an excellent choice! Depending on the type of wood you choose for a natural wood deck, it can be one of the cheapest options to go with! Generally, cheaper woods tend to be less durable than their more expensive counterparts. However, natural woods always require much more maintenance to retain a well-manicured look. Natural wood is also not generally weather resistant, and damages over time.
If you have any questions or concerns about the best type of flooring for your area, indoor or outdoor, we are more than happy to help! Give us a call.
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