When it comes to adding a patio to your property, backyard patio builders recommend two materials that are cheap. Concrete and pea gravel. However, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are important for you to consider. Let’s discuss the two and see which suits you the best.
Why Choose Pea Gravel Patio?
Pea Gravel is quite popular amongst homeowners due to several reasons. The smooth texture along with the size of the gravel makes it a perfect choice for paths and driveways. You can choose from multiple natural-looking colors that add to the overall beauty and charm of the patio.
The first and most important benefit of a pea gravel patio is that pea gravel is both easily available and affordable. Secondly, you do not need to do tons of preparation work to come up with a pea gravel patio. You simply have to remove some soil and lay down pea gravel for installation. However, you need to ensure the removal of weeds before you lay down the gravel.
Another noteworthy benefit of pea gravel is that it blends in well with other landscaping materials. Apart from using it to make a patio, you can use it for other decorative purposes as well. In addition to that, pea gravel also prevents weed from growing. If you lay down a solid thick layer of pea gravel, let’s say 10 cm, you can naturally prevent the growth of weed. In addition to that, installing a pea gravel patio also prevents unwanted water accumulation. You can also add a layer of sand or crushed rock underneath to make the patio more stable.
Cons Of Pea Gravel Patio
While there are several pros of adding a pea gravel patio, there are some cons as well. The first being that pea gravel tends to travel. It is transported through shoes and other items and is soon found inside the house. As a result, you need to clean the area regularly and restock the patio for the lost amount.
Moreover, you cannot place furniture on a pea gravel patio as it sinks. As a result, it makes sitting uncomfortable with the legs sinking into the surface. Finally, you should know that gravel and snow are not the best of friends. Although maintaining a pea gravel patio is easy but not if there’s snow. However, you can sprinkle some salt to prevent snow buildup.
Reasons To Choose Concrete Patio
One of the first advantages of a concrete patio is durability. If a concrete patio is installed the right way, it will last a lifetime. Additionally, it is easy to maintain as well. You do not have to use specialized cleaning tools or products to make it look clean. You can simply wipe it down once a week. Finally, concrete patios come in a variety of designs and patterns. If you want a striking concrete pattern, make sure you hire a professional. It will cost comparatively more than a regular concrete patio but will increase the value of your property and you will get a beautiful patio design.
However, there is one huge drawback to concrete patios and that is chipping. Regular usage of such patios can lead to damage such as chips, which require a lot of effort and money to repair. Sometimes, homeowners are forced to live with the damages since the repairs exceed the total cost of installing the concrete patio later down the road.
The Verdict
As you can see, both pea gravel and concrete patios share several advantages and disadvantages. As a result, it comes down to several factors such as the size and shape of the area available along with the budget and ease of maintenance. While a pea gravel patio can be created on your own, a concrete patio will require a professional working on it.
Choosing pea gravel or concrete patio depends on your needs and preferences. If you are willing to bear the maintenance associated with a pea gravel patio, you should opt for it. However, if not, a concrete patio is going to be the best option since it requires close to zero maintenance and lasts a lifetime. If you need unique designs, your patio contractor Long Island may tell you to use bricks or stones, but for low maintenance and affordability, pea gravel and concrete are suitable.
