I am thinking of adding on to my concrete slab patio in my backyard. Any thoughts on the best material? Flagstone, pavers, or patterned concrete?

flagstone

flagstone.

flagstone

Thanks. Any reason why? Do you know negatives about stamped concrete or just had good results with flagstone? I think the concrete is going to be cheaper so I am curious about any bad things on either of them.

Having worked construction I've seen both.
Stamped concrete will wear and fade over a relatively short time. It will also lack the definition and style of Flagstone.
I have heard (but cannot back this up) that flagstone will feel relatively cooler in the summer. I don't know if that is true, but I do know properly laid flagstone will be more pleasant to look at and walk on.

I might do stamped concrete on a driveway, but only one that doesn't get much travel.


just my opinion though.

[This message has been edited by useagraves (edited 1/30/2010 12:13a).]

flagstone
remember that in most areas of Houston concrete slabs will crack over time. our extended wet/dry periods and our soils guarantee that even the best of slabs will develop cracks over a few years.

quote:

---

remember that in most areas of Houston concrete slabs will crack over time. our extended wet/dry periods and our soils guarantee that even the best of slabs will develop cracks over a few years.

---

wouldn't this be true of the mortar between the stone? you will still get the expansion and contraction, no?

anyways flagstone is good

flagstone
We went with stained concrete, and I regret it. Keep having finish problems. Have already had the contractor back out once in 12 months to refinish it, and I can see the same problem cropping up again.

For flagstone, would you use a cement base. I think I would want to put down a slab an then "tile" it with flagstone.

Our neighbors did the flagstone and crushed granite/sand, but it started developing weeds. Houston seems to get too much rain for cracks in pavement. I would think you woudld have the same problem with the pavers.