flagstone, pavers, or bricks for DIY patio

[elliedeee]

Originally Posted by metamorphosis

You could get the concrete "stamped", if you are looking for the look of stone or bricks.

I read that they can add color to it too so it looks more natural. I've never seen it in person though nor do I know how much extra it costs.

[ciceropolo]

Couple things to consider.
Is it adjacent to house?
You will need to insure a slight grade to drain water away.
The degree of freeze thaw will determine how deep a base pad you will likely need.

You are looking at probably an 8-10" depth from desired surface level. Lime scaling for the below grade, tamper (hand or motorized rental type), and polymerized sand for the finishing of anything with individual bricks, pavers, uniform stone slabs (infill). There's likely some good DIY videos on youtube.

Other options:
Stamped concrete: there is lot of variety to this and can get most any effect of other types of surfaces.
Modular decking - easy to do yourself not as much character. (UDECX is one manufacturer)

An analogous comment
Can't decide.....Pavers or poured concrete patio?

[Brave Stranger]

Originally Posted by mmyk72

Flagstone patio looks so dated.

A bit off topic, but I love the retro look of Flagstone. I have the original flagstone walkway, patio & inlay on the top of my stoop at my 1950s ranch house & it's in excellent shape. Looks like it was just put down. I would never change it out which I have seen some of my neighbors do.

[selhars]

if the patio is done right and the color and medium are what you want, and YOU like it that's all that matters.

I never think of a flagstone patio as dated. It really is a classic look (which is not the same thing) -- and sometimes an "old money look." There are mansions with flagstone patios.

[metamorphosis]

Originally Posted by selhars

if the patio is done right and the color and medium are what you want, and YOU like it that's all that matters.

I never think of a flagstone patio as dated. It really is a classic look (which is not the same thing) -- and sometimes an "old money look." There are mansions with flagstone patios.

Very good.

Although it wasn't mentioned, IF you have any place that you decide to have smooth concrete, remember that when it gets wet, it's very easy to slip on. The house I bought has smooth concrete on the front porch and it gets verrrry slippery. So slick, in fact, that I intend to coat it with something with texture.