Patios started as a part of the Spanish-American and Spanish architecture. This word comes from a latin word spelled as ‘patere’ which refers to ‘lying open’. Likewise, a patio is an outdoor area that is open underneath the sky. Though, some patios also feature an overhead roof, especially in areas with a hot climate. This roof can be detached or attached to the structure of the patio itself. In order to figure out the cost of a roof added, consider reaching out to your local patio builders. 

Back in the day, square central patios that had galleries around them were very popular in the 15th century. This type of architecture is also very apparent in old Indian homes belonging to the Mughal empire. 

Usually, the surface of your patio can give it a very distinct look that will simply improve your outdoor experience. Other factors that include the size of the space, personal preferences, location, and building codes will affect your ultimate decision of the patio surface. 

The best patio surface options out there 

When it comes to patio surfaces, you have an endless array of choices. In this article, we talk about the most popular and timeless choices that you can rely on. These include: 

Gravel surface

Well, gravel may not be the first patio option that you will think about. Many people like to believe that patios should have a solid and uniform surface. However, gravel is a great way to create a very natural look. At the same time, it is one of the most cost-effective solutions out there. Quite luckily, it does not also look bad at all. Rather, if you decorate it just right, gravel filled areas look really attractive. 

Since gravel is a very inexpensive material, installing such a patio is extremely simple. In fact, this is something that you may even do without the help of anyone. For some people, it could be a great DIY project.  

There are a number of benefits of gravel patios. First of all, they allow good drainage. So, you will not have to worry about the water pooling up. Secondly, they are not slippery at all. All in all, they are a great budget choice. 

Concrete 

A concrete patio is a yet another suitable choice. In terms of longevity, concrete may be a much better option as compared to gravel. Though, in terms of costs, both are quite close. All in all, concrete patios are designed to last for a very long time. As a result of this, you do not really have to worry about constant maintenance. However, do know that concrete is susceptible to freezing in very cold temperatures. So in case you live in a region where it snows during the winter, concrete may not be the best surface option for you. 

Though, it is one of the classiest and most common patio choices out there that look extremely sleek. At the same time, they also come in a variety of shades that further enhance their look. 

Pavement 

Next up, pavement is another good option. This looks very similar to concrete as a result of which many people think that they are one and the same. However, these are quicker to install but are not as long lasting as concrete. Though, they look much better to those who have a taste for it. 

Ending note 

There are countless other surface options that you have. As you delve deeper, you might find an endless range of materials, shades, and textures. But to keep things affordable and simple, you can always ask your patio contractors Long Island to give you patio quotes for the above mentioned materials.