In Jefferson County, concrete patios are a clear choice due to their affordability and longevity. But, just how long will a concrete patio in Missouri last?
When compared to options like bricks, paver stones, and wooden decks, concrete patios generally come out near the top for a variety of reasons. Not only are these types of patios low maintenance and affordable, but they will also give their owners years of enjoyment.
But, just how many years will you get to enjoy that new patio? Good question. We’ll give you a general answer, but the exact lifespan will be determined by choosing the right type of concrete delivery and focusing on the maintenance of your outdoor space.
The Lifespan of Concrete Patios in Missouri
When your concrete patio is properly installed and maintained, whether it’s plain or stamped, it should last for decades. Certain factors can lead to cracks, such as earth movement and aggressive tree root growth. But, otherwise, you should expect that your patio floor will last for 30 years or more, provided you use the right type of concrete.
Why Your Choice in Delivery Matters for Concrete Patios
When you build a concrete patio, you’ll have several choices for your materials. Most patios are fairly large, so mixing concrete by hand in a bucket doesn’t make sense for this type of project. If you have experience with concrete, you could use a cement mixer, but you’ll need to ensure that you get the right consistency and have several people on hand to help.
Ready-mix concrete delivery provides the best option for your patio. The concrete will be delivered to your site in the quantity and consistency you need to get the job done right. You’ll likely end up with less waste and will get a concrete patio that lasts longer, provided you take care of it with some simple maintenance steps.
Maintenance Tips for Longer-Lasting Concrete Patios
One of the most common reasons homeowners choose concrete patios is that they are low-maintenance. But, they aren’t something you want to install and then ignore for years. Here are four rules and tips to help preserve your investment and extend the lifespan of your concrete:
1. Keep It Clean
Avoid erosion (a natural process), of your concrete by keeping it clean. Sweep and clean up spills and rinse them with a standard garden hose. You can power wash the area periodically, but avoid using heavy-duty chemicals like sulfates that might corrode or damage your patio surface.
2. Apply a Sealer
You can protect your concrete patio from premature corrosion by applying a sealer and re-applying one about every 2-3 years.
3. Manage Plant Growth
One of the biggest hazards to concrete comes from underneath the surface. Regularly trim the roots in your yard so they don’t create future problems with your concrete patio surface.
4. Provide Cover
Protect your concrete from the elements by adding a roof or some other cover. You can also protect the surface with outdoor rugs.
Summary
Backyard spaces are a source of pride for many Missouri homeowners. When made with the right materials and given a bit of periodic maintenance, concrete patios in Missouri can last for decades.
If you want to schedule a ready mix concrete delivery or learn more about our products, contact Arnold Ready Mix today.
Before You Go
How to Seal a Concrete Driveway or Patio
Things to Know when Pouring Concrete in the Summer Months
How to Prevent Cracking in Concrete
FAQs
The average concrete driveway or patio can last up to 30 years, but that lifespan can be reduced if there's too much cracking due to moisture. A sealer can ensure you get the maximum useful life possible out of your investment.
What is the life expectancy of a concrete patio? ›
Certain factors can lead to cracks, such as earth movement and aggressive tree root growth. But, otherwise, you should expect that your patio floor will last for 30 years or more, provided you use the right type of concrete.
How long does concrete patios last? ›
Some say that a concrete patio may last as long as 30 -50 years. However, if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, the climate's yearly freeze/thaw cycles shorten concrete's life expectancy. Still, the average 25 years lifespan is a long time.
Is a concrete patio a good idea? ›
They are Very Durable
Unlike brick, pavers, or natural stone, it won't shift. Adding rebar will also make large pour patios much stronger. The one thing that you should consider is that if you have decorative concrete, the dye could fade over time.
What is the downfall of stamped concrete? ›
One major problem is that stamped concrete cracks and chips, especially in harsher climates that experience frost. Here in New England our winters can be especially hard on concrete surfaces. Not only is it aesthetically unappealing, but it can also become a safety issue with tripping hazards.
Should you seal concrete patio every year? ›
By sealing your concrete every 2-5 years, as recommended by experts, you should keep your floor in good shape, preventing cracks, pitting, and additional damage.
Does a concrete patio increase property value? ›
On average, the cost of building a patio can be as high as $5,300, depending on size and materials used. That said, it's estimated that well-designed patios not only add 8-10% home value, but also earn an ROI of over 80%.
Do concrete patios always crack? ›
Concrete cracking is typical and often occurs during the curing process. The correct concrete mixture, temperature, and curing process can reduce cracks. Concrete cracks fewer than 0.3 mm wide won't impact the structure and strength. Proper installation by a professional contractor prevents cracking.
How often do you need to seal a concrete patio? ›
A safe bet is to reseal every two to three years; wait much longer and the seal will come undone, but resealing too often adds sealer where it's not needed and delaminates the surface.
Is it cheaper to lay concrete or pavers? ›
As far as installation costs and concrete costs go, poured concrete is technically the most affordable per square foot. However, even though the upfront cost of pavers is higher, concrete pavers offer greater value and durability than poured concrete and stamped concrete.
The biggest con of using concrete is durability. To be honest, it's not a matter of “if” a concrete patio will crack, it's a matter of when… You see, when concrete is in a climate that has a lot of thawing and refreezing in the winter months, it is inevitable that it will eventually get some cracks.
Is it better to have a deck or concrete patio? ›
However, wooden decks typically get a higher return of the investment at about 75 percent. You will garner a return of investment with a cement patio, but usually only about 30 to 60 percent. Another advantage cement patios have over decks is in stylistic versatility.
Is a concrete patio better than a deck? ›
Patios made of concrete pavers are durable and long-lasting. However, you'll need to treat the soil beneath your patio to prevent cracking in cold weather. Wooden decks require power washing, repainting, and sealing every couple of years.
What is the best color for a concrete patio? ›
Earthy hues like browns, tans, and beiges are popular among clients who appreciate the natural look of materials such as stone, wood, or brick. These warm colors blend well with most landscapes and create an inviting atmosphere. Here are some popular Brickform earth-tone colors for stamped concrete.
What is the biggest problem with concrete? ›
One of the most prevalent issues with concrete is cracking. Understanding the different types of cracks can help identify their underlying causes and determine appropriate repair methods. Plastic Shrinkage Cracks: These cracks occur during the curing process when rapid moisture loss causes the surface to shrink.
Is stamped concrete outdated? ›
Stamped Concrete is Not Outdated
While stamped concrete might not be outdated, some of the patterns certainly can be. Some of the earthy-colored stamped concrete patterns from years ago have become quite common and considered outdated.
What happens to concrete after 50 years? ›
If there are no natural disasters, the composite qualities of concrete, which contribute to carbon dioxide emissions, are dated to deteriorate after fifty years. Usually, masonry buildings don't get demolished as a result of deterioration.
How long should a concrete patio last before cracking? ›
A concrete slab will shrink about ¼ inch for every 100 square feet of surface space. When concrete dries and shrinks, cracking can occur hours after being poured. Any crack that is ⅛ of an inch or smaller on your patio or driveway is considered standard. Some hairline cracks may form and disappear after a month or two.
Does concrete deteriorate with age? ›
Many or even most concretes are confronted with potential deteriorative service conditions. If the concrete has not been provided with immunity against these influences, it may well slowly deteriorate as time passes, but not simply because time passes. Concrete need not deteriorate.
Can concrete last 200 years? ›
On average, a concrete foundation lasts 100-200 years.
If you're wondering “how long does a concrete foundation last,” learn more about the details that help foundations last longer and signs of a failing foundation here.
