What are the pros and cons of building a poured-concrete patio?
Description: Concrete patios, also called cement patios, usually are connected to the house so the family can walk straight from the doorway to the patio. The material is a favorite patio surface because it can be stamped or colored to mimic anything from limestone to slate to cobblestone—or even wood. Benefits: This versatile material is less expensive than wood, tile or natural stone. Drawbacks: Because concrete expands and contracts, it can crack. In fact, small, controlled cracks in concrete are necessary to accommodate the expansion. But if moisture penetrates a hairline crack, the crack will expand. Homeowners can prevent this by filling cracks with epoxy. Maintenance: Reseal your concrete patio every one to three years to refresh its vibrant color. For regular cleaning, rinse the surface with a garden hose or pressure washer. Then scrub it with a push broom and a mild detergent like dish soap. Thoroughly rinse the soap away. Performance in heat and sun: Concrete that bakes in th
