Concrete Patio Installation Houston

Most standard patio installations take 2-3 days from start to finish. Day 1 involves site preparation and base work, Day 2 is concrete pouring and finishing, and Day 3 (if needed) is for decorative work or sealing. Larger or more complex patios may take 4-5 days. The concrete will need 3-7 days to cure before heavy use.

The ideal patio size depends on how you'll use the space. For dining, plan for at least 12' x 12' to accommodate a table and chairs with room to move. For entertaining, 16' x 20' or larger is recommended. We typically suggest a patio that's proportional to your home—usually 15-20% of your home's square footage for the outdoor living area.

In Houston, most patio installations do require a permit, especially if they're attached to the house or over a certain size. We handle all permit applications and inspections as part of our service. The permit process typically adds 1-2 weeks to the project timeline but ensures your patio meets all code requirements.

Concrete patios are low-maintenance. Regular sweeping and occasional washing with a garden hose keep them looking great. For stained or sealed patios, we recommend resealing every 2-3 years to maintain protection and appearance. Avoid using deicing salts in winter, and clean spills promptly to prevent staining.

While we can get very close, it's challenging to perfectly match existing concrete due to aging and weathering. For additions to existing patios, we recommend options like: adding a decorative border to the entire area, staining both old and new sections, or creating a deliberate design separation. We'll show you samples and discuss the best approach.

Concrete patios are typically more cost-effective ($8-22/sq ft vs $15-35+ for pavers), faster to install, and require less maintenance. With stamped concrete, you can achieve the look of pavers at a lower cost. Pavers offer easier repairs for individual pieces but can shift over time and may develop weed growth between joints. For most Houston homeowners, concrete offers the best value and performance.