Learn how Archadeck of Austin changed the way these South Austin homeowners use their backyard
Our outdoor living space addition in South Austin is a good example of the way Archadeck of Austin is changing the way homeowners are able to utilize, and enjoy their backyards. We are able to deliver these kind of results in two ways; #1 we can transform the vision of your ideal backyard and bring it to life from the ground up, an #2 we can convert an existing outdoor living structure into the backyard of your dreams. The possibilities are truly endless!
In the case of these South Austin homeowners, they had an existing outdoor space consisting of an aging backyard pond and an exposed aggregate concrete patio. The pond had become a chore to maintain as it had become a nursery for mosquitoes making spending time in the backyard a challenge to avoid being bitten, especially after dusk.
Archadeck of Austin consulted with the homeowners and listened to their vision of what they wanted their backyard to be. They wanted a spot that was versatile in that they could find a respite from the hot Texas afternoons and relax in mosquito-free comfort. They still wanted to be able to take in the ambiance an open fire provided too, so the new design had to incorporate a fire pit. With these ideas in mind, we set out to bring their anticipated outdoor space to life.
There were some obstacles to overcome in order to give these South Austin homeowners the environment they wanted. One of which was having to finalize a design that would pass the impervious cover requirements needed for their localities. Once this was confirmed it was smooth sailing! The project also needed to be mindful of some drainage issues and maintain some space outside the covered porch to accommodate their outdoor grill.
The completed project is multi-faceted and included transforming the concrete patio by way of installing flagstone atop the existing patio and covering a portion to give the homeowners the needed shade they desired. In addition to the extensive upgrades just off the rear of their ranch style home, we also created a detached space that includes a custom stone fire pit encircled with a hardscape retaining wall, which can also double as seating. The fire pit is just a stone’s throw away (no pun intended) from the covered patio which allows the spaces to be enjoyed simultaneously. To the side of the porch and connecting all the way to the driveway we constructed a patio/walkway using an Oklahoma variety flagstone on a bed of decomposed granite and pea gravel. This allowed for a good solid surface but allowed any water to absorb into the soil.
The covered patio is finished a rustic ceiling, with exposed cedar rafters and T1-11 ceiling, which was stained to make it pop against the painted hardi wrapped posts/beams atop stone pillars. The covered patio also includes a ceiling fan to circulate the air on hot summer days and deters any insects from invading the space, plus some post sconces to light up the evening
The clients are elated with their new backyard — which is far more than just an outdoor living space, it is a completely new outdoor living environment! If you are ready to change the way you and your family live outdoors, contact Archadeck of Austin today to begin the process today — you can reach us by phone at at ( 512) 259 – 8282 or email us at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
What really goes into building a flagstone patio?
Austin flagstone patio in all it’s splendor.
Flagstone patio in cedar park with built-in benches
Patios are very popular here in the Austin area and flagstone patios in particular are one of the most requested type of patios among our customers. The rustic elegance they provide compliments our Texas landscape and unique home designs. Installing a flagstone patio requires a lot more steps than it may seem.
The first steps begin once the dimensions are determined during our pre-construction meeting with the homeowners. Following this important meeting we then have the concrete poured to form up the shape of the patio. Sometimes the homeowner first needs to contact their sprinkler system company and have them re-locate any sprinkler heads that are in the area of the intended patio, if not Archadeck of Austin will cap off the heads. If we are building a “full-on” patio next to a house that is built on a slab our professional concrete contractor will also install rebar every two feet to connect the foundation of the patio to the foundation of the house. This extra step ensures a stable patio foundation. Once this step is completed we then pour the perimeter of the patio. We pour this 1ft. by 1ft. around what will become the perimeter footing, we also add rebar to this area as well for an added measure of strength. Most other companies just don’t take this step; we however feel it very important for the strength and life of your patio.
Flagstone patio with steps and a pergola privacy wall
Depending on the slope of your yard, we may install a fascia. A fascia involves the underpinning which is concrete paint that is trimmed so it doesn’t convey a rough vertical surface. We will then use vertical stones around your step areas. Typically this is not done around the entire perimeter because over time it can flake and break off so we do something that will last over a long period of time.
On the top of the poured patio base we add a 4″ deep cap and pour an additional 4″ of concrete strengthened with wire mesh. Depending on the size of your patio, we may also install man-made, control and expansion joints every 10-12′ depending on the width. Once those layers of concrete properly cure, the flagstone will then be delivered by the stone company so our expert masons can lay out the flagstone in a mosaic pattern. Once they are laid out and everything is concise, we then put in the mortar that was chosen by the homeowner. One thing we are proud of is the tight mortar joints we do so well, this gives you a flagstone patio that looks like stone when you look at and not all mortar. After all, our customers are paying for stone, not mortar. After the mortar is done, the next step is to apply a sealer. The sealer is undetectable to the appearance of the patio, but it keeps moisture from penetrating the stone and also keeps mold and mildew out. The sealer also gives the finished patio a cleaner look. After applying the sealer you shouldn’t have to do any further maintenance for 5-10 years.
This flagstone patio in Steiner Ranch incorporates a water feature that can also be used as a fire pit
When the stone selections are made we generally meet our customer at the stone shop to help them with their selection and any questions or concerns they may have about a particular stone. There are actually 10-14 various types of flagstone to choose from. The most popular flagstone choices are Oklahoma, Arizona and Mexico. All the most widely used flagstones come from Oklahoma. Sometimes when we use flagstone we will incorporate beautiful and useful features such as stone benches or even a stone kitchen island if your patio incorporates an outdoor kitchen.
Flagstone patios are not only gorgeous, they are a solid material choice for your patio because with a stained concrete or concrete patio when it cracks, and it is not a question of if it cracks, but a question of when, you will have to live with it. When you use flagstone and the concrete underneath cracks you may get a little separation of mortar joints over time but you won’t see a line in the stone. Making sure your flagstone is installed by a licensed professional ensures the beauty and enjoyment of your patio is treasured for many years to come.
Oklahoma Buff Peach flagstone patio adjoining tigerwood deck
If you are ready to add a flagstone patio or other outdoor structure to your life this season, contact Archadeck of Austin to make it happen. Our talented design staff can come up with the perfect outdoor oasis to fill your needs. Call for a free consultation ( 512) 259 – 8282 email:Austin@archadeck.net
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
To see more beautiful flagstone patio creations visit our flagstone patio gallery located on our website.
When choosing a hardscape for your Austin outdoor structure stone is a natural
Among the preference of materials used to construct our Austin area homeowners hardscape endeavors, the top choice is undoubtedly natural stone. Natural stone comes in a myriad of colors, textures and variances in undulation, or waves and bends present in natural stone. Natural stone is derived from a multitude of locations within our earth, and with any material that is derived from nature and the earth, no two pieces of stone are exactly alike. The differences and variations present in natural stone only add to its charm and part of what makes it so popular among the many materials available to create a truly unique hardscape outdoor structure.
This tigerwood deck by Archadeck of Austin plays host to a stunning backdrop of natural stone ledges and the beautiful hill country terrain Austin is known for
Our signature item is the flagstone patio. Whether they are built-in unison with a decks, pergolas or one of the other stunning outdoor structures we build for homeowners here in the Austin area, the added essence of flagstone makes the entire project breathtaking. Austin is hill country which not only yields varying grades and steep drop offs which often includes natural stone, but natural stone used as a building material is common because of its natural beauty and the way it complements the natural surroundings and backdrops of Austin’s hill country. Flagstone is quarried from the ground and therefore will not yield a completely even surface. Flagstone patios are set on either concrete or mortar beds. The concrete base is referred to as a 1″ stone, and the mortar base is a 2″ stone. These terms are commonly used but the thickness of the stone itself can vary from 3/4″ to 3″. There can and will be movement on flagstone which is set on a base which is not concrete. Maintaining your flagstone patio, or other outdoor structure involves cleaning, sweeping or pressure washing on a low PSI and a fan tip is also recommended. Our flagstone patios our sealed with a “matte” finish penetrating sealer and are not visible to the naked eye that they are being absorbed. The seal will last from 6-12 months. After the initial sealing, the patio may be resealed again at your discretion. If you are placing a BBQ pit or grill atop your flagstone patio be careful not to let grease or drippings on the surface of the flagstone for they can stain the stone and become permanent.
Natural stone patio and outdoor fireplace by Archadeck of Austin
Flagstone is not the only natural stone that is coveted among Austin homeowners for its beauty and unique characteristics. We also use sandstone in many of our projects. Sandstone is created when sand and an alkaline settling is formed under pressure and joined at the uppermost surface of the earth. Slate as well is a rich, deeply undulated natural stone that is popular in building outdoor hardscape structures. Slate and sandstone are very similar in the manner formation of the stone itself occurs. Slate is formed when wide ranges of minerals are compressed in layers near the earths’ surface over time. Slate is however prone to what is called “cleft plane spalling” which is a process where layers separate from the main stone body. Combined with the soft character of slate, these layers can be separated by walking on the surface, dropping or moving items over the surface or an excessive presence of moisture. Due to its’ soft nature, slate is also prone to scratching.
Austin flagstone patio
Running only second to flagstones popularity here in the Austin area is Leuders stone, also known as limestone. Limestone is formed when sea beds dry up in layers over time which results in the decay of aquatic organisms. This sedimentation process over time and intense pressure yields limestone. Limestone is basically calcium carbonate which is a pure form of a very soft alkali. Not unlike the other natural stones we have listed, limestone also can be stained or damaged by outside forces. When exposed to acidic properties which are present in wines, sodas, coffees and other beverages it can result in a condition referred to as an “etch mark” which needs to be polished to be removed. Repeated acid or high moisture attack can result in permanent and irreversible stone damage and color change. This stone class can scratch easily under normal wear. Despite the fragile nature limestone has under certain circumstances, it is one of the most beautiful stones we use and as long as it is properly sealed and taken care of can prove to provide years of outdoor enjoyment.
Covered patio with custom outdoor limestone fireplace in Austin
All of these types of stone are excellent choices for masonry projects. They can all be sealed to help prevent staining. These stone make ups are available in a chopped block, patio stone or cap stone. Combining various styles can add more texture and depth to a project. All are extremely durable and will outlast us all as we know since it has already existed for thousands of years. Within these stone types there are an extremely large number of colors and hues. So when choosing your hardscape material for your patio or other outdoor structure, natural stone is a natural indeed.
Wes Vann, Archadeck of Austin
Contact Archadeck of Austin to learn more about creating a breathtaking hardscape outdoor masterpiece for yourself. (512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
See more photos of our natural stone patios and hardscapes by visiting our patio and hardscape photo gallery located on our website.
We don’t just build structures to fit the way you want to live, we build structures that support the big moments in your life.
The addition of an outdoor kitchen can make your holiday, or special event hassle free with the convenience of a secondary food preparation area.
When you think about what motivates homeowners to make the decision to add an outdoor living area to their home and backyard, in many cases the motivating factor that drives them to act upon their decision is a holiday, party or event they have planned for the near future. Let’s say for instance with the holiday season just around the corner, a homeowner may decide to go ahead and add on that new deck, covered porch, or outdoor fireplace with a custom stone patio surround in anticipation of family and friends that are planning to visit and having the structure up and running will create a great place to relax and spend time with family and friends within a unique outdoor setting to make new memories together. It’s almost as though you have the indulgence of an extra “family room” with a unique outdoor setting. Could you imagine having an outdoor kitchen incorporated into your deck or patio that could serve as a secondary food preparation area on Thanksgiving? The hubby can fry the turkey in the outdoor kitchen, and be out of the way, while the lady of the house prepares all the sumptuous side dishes in the house. Having the function of an outdoor kitchen to take some of the stress out of the kitchen, especially if you prepare Thanksgiving dinner for a large crowd, can make “Turkey day” run as smooth as a french silk pie.
A spa deck such as this one by Archadeck of Austin can make your holiday party merry and bright
The beauty of our business is when a homeowner approaches us and needs their outdoor endeavor completed within a specific time frame most of the time we are able to accommodate their request. We do absolutely everything we can to accommodate it. We always quote a lead time to begin and give an expected completion date and 90% of the time we meet it with 2 or 3 days. Just this month we had a deck that was needed for a wedding, a restaurant deck for an opening last week, and a cabana finished for a party. This week we engaged on a job for a Christmas party mid December. In most cases, if you need it, Archadeck of Austin can have it ready for you within the time frame you need it.
This cabana style patio cover makes the perfect spot for entertaining with an outdoor fireplace, and outdoor kitchen built right in.
Many outdoor structure builders hesitate to make these kind of promises to homeowners because they lack the project management that is necessary to make sure every aspect of your outdoor structure is run in a professional, timely manner. We make certain on all of our jobs that each specific layer of the building process is set up in the order it needs to be accomplished to avoid delays, and have wiggle room if a problem arises. The keys to being able to deliver what we promise are superior project management, frequent and effective communication with the homeowner, a solid design, and good weather.
Ring in the New Year in style with a covered patio, deck and pergola by Archadeck of Austin
Wouldn’t the thought of having your New Year’s Eve bash under the cover of the warm Texas evening on your new deck sound enticing this year? If you dream it, we can build it. The bottom line is that if you need to get a job done to fit your individual schedule we can do it. Contact Archadeck of Austin to learn more and remember, we take care of everything but the weather. (512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
To see more awe-inspiring images of decks that are perfect for your next big outdoor event visit our deck photo gallery located on our website.
You can also see more of our delicious outdoor kitchen designs be visiting our outdoor kitchen photo gallery also located on our website as well.
A Round Rock, TX transformation nestled among the beauty of the trees.
These Round Rock, TX homeowners have one of the most beautifully lush backyards. Being able to incorporate an outdoor living structures within this backyard could seem like a challenge to some, but not to us. The mingling of the wood and flagstone we used to create this outdoor retreat is mesmerizing set against the beauty of the rush of green in this residence.
This Round Rock, TX pergola is used as a patio cover for the upper portion of the Flagstone patio.
These homeowners had an existing concrete patio that was not serving their needs. Our goal was to extend the patio and pour a whole new facet of enjoyment into their backyard. Our design included a covered patio extension complete with an outdoor kitchen and pergola-style roof and another patio that descends from the covered patio to the new outdoor fireplace.
In designing the master plan to transform this Round Rock, TX backyard into a paradise for the senses we first had to overcome some obstacles. The first challenge was to incorporate all the desired structures into the homeowners minimal backyard and also deal with the small elevated back porch. The design we decided upon that would work best was to actually create two structures out of one area by extending the small space to make it larger and adding another space to serve as the focal point for the outdoor fireplace.
We designed an extension of the existing concrete patio and added stone over the top of the concrete for seamless design. We then added the pergola with an extension as well over the patio and added a little slope to compensate for the existing patio being so high. The small round patio located in the design accents the large outdoor fireplace located at the corner. We used a round design for the patio and continued the curved design feature into the fireplace’s eyebrow and hearth.
The medium we chose to cover the patios with is gorgeous Oklahoma flagstone in buff peach. We also used block stone in the design using Autumn blend block stone. The element of the two separate stones working together along with the cedar pergola and the trees on the property is truly breathtaking.
Archadeck of Austin custom designed this cedar cabinet located above the mantel of this outdoor fireplace to safely and efficiently house a TV.
The outdoor kitchen is located inside the patio cover and includes a grill, refrigerator and plenty of electrical outlets. The countertops are finished out with a very nice tile that compliments the homes brick colors. The rustic outdoor fireplace is graciously equipped with custom cedar cabinets above the firebox made especially for housing a television and keeping it safe and dry from the elements.
These Round Rock, TX homeowners couldn’t be more thrilled with the transformation, they say it feels as though they have a whole new backyard. We can create a stunning transformation of your back yard as well, contact Archadeck of Austin to learn more (512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
Here is a slideshow of this Round Rock, TX backyard oasis that is a feast for the senses….
To see more stunning inspiration of outdoor structure designs visit our photo galleries
Jim Odom, Archadeck of Austin
For more design inspiration visit our Patio photo gallery
Visit our Outdoor kitchens photo gallery for yummy designs in outdoor kitchens
Austin Detached Covered Patio with Outdoor Fireplace, Outdoor Kitchen and a Big Green Egg
This outdoor living space packs in as much of the “living” part of outdoor living as you can get. Once this structure is completed the homeowners will have plenty of room to entertain in their new outdoor living room, as well as provide a special place for an evening at home. This structure will have it all. It is being built with an outdoor fireplace, and an outdoor kitchen which will be equipped with a Big Green Egg smoker, the patio will also have an area above the fireplace that awaits the installation of the homeowners big HDTV over the fireplace. It doesn’t get any better than this.
This design rendering shows what the grand finale will look like.
Since the detached patio sits in close proximity to the homeowners pool, we are using a CoolDeck concrete floor in the detached patio that matches the surround of the pool itself. The large beams that support the detached patio are housed in beautiful columns that encompass a continuation of the stone with a knee-wall height ledge/border that runs the entire perimeter of the structure. The outdoor fireplace is also finished in stone as well. The combination of the wood and the stone is going to make a stunning ,unique and rustic looking retreat once completed. This structure will be a great place to get away from the stresses and worries of work and obligations, a place to just relax in beauty and relaxation.
The outdoor kitchen is being equipped with all the accoutrements to make the kitchen fully functional on it’s own. The kitchen will have a Big Green Egg smoker, a grill, a side burner, ice maker, refrigerator and a kegerator. Imagine watching the big game on Sunday with the guys in all this convenience and luxury, i can see this outdoor room quickly becoming the “place to be” each weekend.
Yummy- the Big Green Egg in action.
Did i mention the Big Green Egg? Even though the name makes you imagine the famous children’s author, Dr, Seuss, there are no “green eggs and ham” cooking up in this wonderful smoker. Big Green Egg smokers have become all the rage in outdoor structures and among those that like to grill out in style. These smokers and grills are considered to be one of the worlds best. These smokers are being used by many who cook at the competitive level. Their smokers use smoldering wood and low temperatures to help you create mouthwatering meats that are so tender you won’t need a knife.
Here is another view, capable through our custom design renderings, of how the completed structure will appear from another angle.
Detached patios that are close to pools and other water features, and even lakes, are sometimes referred to as detached cabanas. The two structures are really no different except when you hear the word cabana you imagine the capabilities to be reminiscent of a luxury resort where the water is only a few feet away. Once completed, this structure will have the capabilities that would rival any 5-star resort.
Jim Odom, Archadeck of Austin
Of course the structure will also have an area for the homeowners big screen HDTV right above the lovely stone fireplace as well and plenty of ceiling fans to stay cool on those warm Texas days. Since this structure is still in progress, we look forward to sharing the photos of the completed structure with you very soon. Until then imagine the things you could do with your very own detached patio, outdoor kitchen and outdoor fireplace and contact Archadeck of Austin to make it happen. (512) 259-8282
austin@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Austin Takes us on a Tour of Flagstone
Beautiful flagstone outdoor fireplace by Archadeck of austin
Here in the Austin area flagstone is quite popular. We have been using it in a variance of structures, from patios to pathways, flagstone has a rustic elegance about it that can’t be found in any other medium. Here at Archadeck of Austin each of our clients get their own design rendering. These design renderings are never used again, so the structure you get from us, is yours and yours alone. Since flagstone is 100% natural since it is cut from the earth, every piece of flagstone is different as well. No two flagstone projects will be the alike because no two pieces of flagstone are identical.
This outdoor bar has a unique design that looks great in flagstone
Deciding which flagstone to use can be a difficult decision because of all the different types, colors and patterns of flagstone there are to choose from. We want this daunting task of selecting the type and color to be a little easier for you and hopefully after you have reviewed this blog, you will have a little better idea of the basics of flagstone selections. When talking about natural stone such as flagstone there are words that are used to describe certain attributes of the stone itself such as undulation which are natural wavelike bends, curves and elevation differences you can see and feel throughout the stone. Veining refers to a pattern or natural markings that are visible in the stone. Swirling means any curving, twisting line or shape visible naturally within the stone.
The Oklahoma family of Flagstone
Oklahoma Buff Peach flagstone patio in Austin TX
Oklahoma buff peach is a very popular color. Customers choose this color frequently with its subtle pleasing tones. The variation in the tones of Oklahoma buff peach can vary from peach tones, taupe tones and even gray tones.The surface tends to be smoother and not have as much undulation as some of the other Oklahoma’s.
Oklahoma chocolate gold flagstone, notice the undulation in this photo
Other Oklahoma flagstones include the dazzling Chocolate gold, which has quite a bit of undulation and veining. The veining of this flagstone gives it a rich, robust feel. Variances in Oklahoma Chocolate gold can be deep browns, to gray and of course the gold hues as well.
Oklahoma taupe is another favorite of ours. It has a fair amount of undulation but a more neutral feel. It conveys variation of taupe, light gray and earthy browns. This color works well with a lot of different mediums.
Oklahoma silver mist
Then you have Oklahoma Silver mist. The name itself gives it away. It has a silvery-misty sort of look to it. Color varies from darker grays to light silver, and slight blue undertones.
The Arizona family of flagstone
The Arizona flagstones tend to be more of a sandstone type of stone. They have a Smoother surfacing with less undulation. Not as bumpy as your Oklahoma’s. They have a sandier , flatter look to them.
Arizona buckskin flagstone
Arizona buckskin is a good neutral flagstone. Neutral does not mean boring in the case of this flagstone though. When I look at this color I am reminded of a buckskin horse. This color can only be achieved through mother nature. It is rustic, yet elegant, tough yet soft. The natural pigment of the earth is apparent in the hue. It works well with many mediums.
Arizona rose flagstone
Then there is the beautiful Arizona Rose flagstone. Here in Texas and beyond this is a much coveted color. Arizona Rose is best described as a light brick-red, with natural pink variations and gray undertones. It reminds me of ethnic pottery or the color of the sky right before it disappears into the horizon on a hot Texas night. Even with the entwining of rose and pink variations, this is a great neutral color that will work well with gray all the way to dark brown. Any color where you have gray or brown undertones will only enhance the beauty of Arizona Rose flagstone.
The Mexican family of flagstone
Flagstone patio done in Mexican rosewood
Last but certainly not least we have the Mexican flagstones. This flagstone has a lot of variation in color and movement throughout the stone such as veining and swirling. It is a work of art in itself. As with any flagstone each piece is different, but the beautiful degree of variation in Mexican flagstone makes it a joy to look at.
Mexican Rosewood is probably the finest example of the Mexican flagstones. This color has the hints of terra-cotta you would expect from Mexican pottery, but with variations and swirls of peaches, reds and pinks. Truly original and truly lovely.
Whether you are ready to build your flagstone patio or are just in the decision stages, Archadeck of Austin can help plan, design and build the flagstone structure you’ve been yearning for. We have years of experience building with flagstone and our design staff can help you decide on the flagstone that is right for you. Contact us today to find out more. Call (512) 259-8282 or email us at austin@archadeck.net
Checklist for deciding on your flagstone patio builder and mason
It seems a bit intuitive that a flagstone patio might not be that difficult to build provided that you have the platform to build the flagstone patio on. Granted the patio you see in the photo directly below is one that is professionally built but let’s look at the basics of building a flagstone patio. Some aspects of building the patio are a little more involved and might surprise you.
Curvilinear concrete and flagstone patio with decorative flagstone facade and step lighting
What I’d like to do is provide a checklist for you of the questions to ask and things to look for when evaluating builders or masons to build your flagstone patio and also some of the design questions to think about when deciding exactly what you want.
Flagstone patio with steps and a pergola privacy wall
Design questions
- What shape patio do you want?
- Do you want a decorative or plain facade?
- Do you need any lighting or electrical installed or run through the patio?
Design considerations
Before you have your builder or contractor come out, you will want to think about the shape of patio you would like. Do you want square or rectangular or curvilinear? Curves are hot right now and as you can see above they take your patio design to a completely new level.
Also consider if you want a plain or decorative facade or side of the foundation that supports your patio. A lot of your decision will depend on the height of the patio foundation but also on the final aesthetics you desire. This small detail adds to the cost but ask your builder about options on creating a decorative facade to finish off your patio.
Also consider whether you want electrical installed or run through your patio. If your patio is the only thing that separates your house or deck from your pool, you may need electrical run under or through. Again, ask your builder to help you with these considerations in the building process.
Flagstone patio with fire pit, bench retaining wall and adjoining deck
Construction and builder evaluation checklist
- What foundation or patio platform do you have or should you build for your new flagstone patio?
- Will you need your irrigation company to come out prior to building?
- Will the builder attach the patio foundation to your house foundation?
- What material will be used under the mortar and flagstones?
- Is the builder planning on using expansion joints?
- How wide will the mortar joints be?
- How will your flagstone patio be sealed?
- How long should your patio last?
Let’s look at some of these questions so you have a checklist of what to look for when choosing a company to build your patio.
1. Patio platform
Your flagstone patio will need a strong, sturdy, solid and level base for the flagstones. Do you have an existing concrete structure to build the patio on? If so, is it level? If not, make sure the patio builder will be building a concrete foundation that’s suitable for your patio.
2. Irrigation
Will you need your irrigation company to come out prior to building? If you have have sprinkler heads in the area where your new patio will go, you have two options. You can have your irrigation company come out to move or remove the heads. Alternately, your patio builder should be able to cap the sprinkler heads for you.
3. Will the builder attach the patio foundation to your house foundation?
With most patios, the patio will be abut to your house. When building a foundation for your patio, the builder has 2 choices. They can build the patio foundation to but up against your home’s foundation. Or, the better builders will actually attach the patio foundation to the home’s foundation. At Archadeck, we connect to house foundation slab using rebar every 2 feet. Then we create a 1 ft by 1 ft perimeter footing also strengthened with rebar. It’s really a critical step to ensuring the strength and longevity of your patios. A lot of other companies just simply don’t do any reinforcement to the patio foundation.
4. What material will be used under the mortar and flagstones?
You want to make sure there is some sort of strengthening material across the top of the concrete base where your flagstone will be laid. We use wire mesh to ensure the surface is prepped and ready for the flagstone and mortar.
5. Is the builder planning on using expansion joints?
This is a really important one depending on the size of your patio. Regardless of what we do, over time, many concrete structures will crack due to the movement of the earth below the concrete. So, a good builder will plan for this and “build in” a system to keep the flagstone in tact. We use something called expansion joints. Every 10-12 feet, depending on width of the patio we create control joints which are man-made joints. These joints are essentially man-made cracks in the foundation that are not visible on the top of the patio and here’s why. As I said above, we use a wire mesh to support the flagstone top patio layer that sits above the concrete patio foundation. These very small man-made joints give the concrete foundation room to expand and contract.
6. How wide will the mortar joints be?
One thing that’s very important is to find out how tight the mortar joints will be. You’ve probably seen patios that have a little bit of flagstone and a lot of mortar. That design makes the patio significantly less expensive for the mason but significantly lower quality and aesthetics for you. You want to make sure the builder will use a very tight mosaic pattern so you see mostly flagstone on the top of the patio because your are paying for stone, not mortar.
7. How will your flagstone patio be sealed?
You want to make sure to use a sealer on the top of your flagstone patio after all the mortar has cured. It’s a small but important step. The sealer will be undetectable but keeps moisture from penetrating the stone and keeps mold and mildew out. It also gives your patio a cleaner look. These days, builders and contractors are reluctant to want to come back out for a small step that doesn’t take much time. But that hour or two that they spend sealing your deck could add years to your deck.
8. How long should your patio last?
If done right, you should expect your patio to be maintenance free for about 5-10 years.
Flagstone patio mosaic with tight mortar joints
Flagstone Patios in Austin
Two of our most popular flagstone colors - Oklahoma Buff Peach and Oklahoma Chocolate Gold
Guest post by Wes Vann
We build a lot of flagstone patios. I think they’re popular because they have such a nice, natural rustic look, but they’re a hearty stone and stand the test of time. We work with a lot of colors but recently one of the colors that a lot of customers seem to gravitate to is Oklahoma Buff Peach. Flagstone is a naturally occurring stone so that adds to the natural feel. The naming of the colors represents two things. First, you will note that state name in the color. That really does indicate where it is sourced from. The rest of the color name represents the overall color impression and the variety. For example, Oklahoma buff peach is subtle with a lot of buff and taupe tones. On the other side of the range is a mild peach tone. You can imagine that the shades in between make for a very subtle combination.
Another really hot one right now is Oklahoma Chocolate Gold. This brings to mind very rich variations of stone color from a deep brown to the golden warm colors. The shade shown on the right above is the chocolate gold. You’re seeing a close-up there so here is a look from a little bit farther away so you can see how the color combination blends from chocolate to gold.
Here are some other popular colors right now:
- Oklahoma Taupe flagstone
- Arizona Buckskin Beige
- Arizona Classic Oak
- Arizona Rosa
- Mexican Rosewood
- Mexican Cafe
- Mexican Midnight Iris
Please send along questions or comments or thoughts. I love working with flagstone and love talking about ideas for building using flagstone.
Austin Decks, Pergolas, Covered Patios, Porches, more 