How much does a concrete patio cost compared to a wood deck?

Initial costs for concrete and wood decks are often similar, depending on the design and materials. However, concrete saves you money over time because of lower maintenance costs. Wood decks need staining every 2 to 3 years, which costs several hundred dollars in materials and labor if you hire someone. Wood also needs repairs and eventual replacement sooner than concrete. When you factor in total cost of ownership over 20 to 30 years, concrete is significantly cheaper despite similar upfront costs.

Can you build a patio on a sloped yard?

Yes, we can work with sloped yards. We have several options depending on how steep the slope is. For gentle slopes, we can grade the area to create a level patio surface. For steeper slopes, we might recommend a multi-level design with steps between sections, or we can build a raised patio with retaining walls to create a level space. Each situation is different, so we evaluate your specific yard and recommend the best approach for your budget and preferences.

How long before we can use our new patio?

You can walk on your new patio after 24 to 48 hours for light foot traffic. However, you should wait at least 7 days before placing heavy furniture or other loads on it. The concrete continues to cure and gain strength for about 28 days. We recommend waiting the full week before using your patio normally to ensure the surface reaches adequate strength. This patience pays off with a patio that lasts decades without cracking or surface damage.

Concrete Patios in Fond du Lac, WI | Custom Outdoor Living Spaces

Your Backyard Deserves Better Than a Wood Deck

You want a space where your family can relax, where you can grill on summer evenings, and where you can entertain friends without worrying about maintenance. A concrete patio gives you all of that. Unlike wood decks that rot, splinter, and need constant staining, concrete patios handle Wisconsin weather without falling apart.

We build custom concrete patios for homeowners throughout Fond du Lac. Your patio is not just another job for us. We take the time to understand how you want to use your outdoor space. Whether you need room for outdoor furniture, a fire pit area, or space for kids to play, we design and build a patio that fits your lifestyle.

The best part about concrete patios is the versatility. You can keep it simple with a standard finish, or you can add decorative elements like stamping, staining, or borders. The choice is yours, and we help you make the right decision for your budget and style preferences.

Why Concrete Beats Wood Decks Every Time

People often compare concrete patios to wood decks. Here is the truth: concrete wins in almost every category that matters to homeowners.

No rotting or termites: Wood decks deteriorate over time. They rot from moisture, get eaten by termites, and develop weak spots that can be dangerous. Concrete does not rot, and insects have no interest in it.
Minimal maintenance: Wood decks need sanding, staining, and sealing every few years. That is a lot of work and expense. Concrete patios need an occasional cleaning and resealing every 5 to 10 years. That is it.
No splinters: If you have kids or walk barefoot outside, you know the problem with wood splinters. Concrete surfaces are smooth and safe for bare feet.
Longer lifespan: A wood deck lasts 10 to 15 years if you maintain it well. A properly installed concrete patio lasts 30 years or more. That is double or triple the lifespan with less maintenance.
Better in Wisconsin weather: Our freeze-thaw cycles destroy wood faster than in warmer climates. Concrete handles temperature changes much better when installed with proper drainage and the right mix.
More design options than you think: People assume concrete means boring gray slabs. That is not true anymore. Stamped and decorative concrete can look like flagstone, brick, or natural stone at a fraction of the cost.

Custom Patio Designs That Fit Your Space

Every backyard is different. Some homes have level yards perfect for large patios. Others have slopes, trees, or awkward shapes that require creative solutions. We handle all of it. Here is how we approach your patio design:

Size and shape: We work with the space you have. Small urban backyards can still have beautiful patios. We help you maximize usable space without overwhelming your yard. Larger properties can accommodate expansive patios with multiple zones for dining, lounging, and cooking.

Integration with existing features: Have a tree you want to keep? We can build around it. Need to connect your patio to existing walkways or steps? We make sure everything flows together naturally.

Drainage planning: This is critical but often overlooked. Water should never pool on your patio or drain toward your foundation. We grade everything properly so water flows away from your home and does not create puddles where you walk.

Access and functionality: We think about how you will actually use the space. Where will furniture go? Do you need space for a grill? Should we include a small step down from your door, or keep everything level? These details matter.

How We Build Patios That Last Decades

A patio is only as good as the work underneath it. We do not skip steps or rush the process. Here is what goes into every patio we build:

First, we excavate the area to the proper depth. How deep depends on your soil and the size of your patio. We remove unstable soil, roots, and debris. If the base is not solid, your patio will settle and crack within a few years.

Next comes the gravel base. We install 4 to 6 inches of compacted gravel. This provides stability and drainage. Proper compaction is critical. We do not just dump gravel and call it good. We compact it in layers to prevent future settling.

We set forms to define the shape and edges of your patio. We add reinforcement like wire mesh or rebar to strengthen the concrete and control cracking. The type of reinforcement depends on the size of your patio and your soil conditions.

Then we pour the concrete. We use quality mixes designed for outdoor flatwork. The concrete is leveled, floated, and finished to your chosen texture. We create control joints to direct any natural cracking to designated spots where it will not be noticeable.

Finally, we allow proper curing time. This is not optional. Concrete needs time to reach full strength. We protect the surface from temperature extremes and moisture loss during curing. After curing, we apply a quality sealer to protect against stains, moisture, and freeze-thaw damage.

Wisconsin Weather Requires Local Expertise

Fond du Lac weather is tough on outdoor concrete. Our winters freeze and thaw repeatedly. Our summers get hot and humid. These conditions cause problems when concrete is not installed correctly.

We use air-entrained concrete mixes that resist freeze-thaw damage. We know when weather conditions are right for pouring and when we need to wait. We understand local soil types and how they affect drainage and settling. This experience prevents the common issues we see with patios installed by contractors who do not know our climate.

We also know local regulations and best practices. Your patio needs proper drainage, correct thickness, and appropriate reinforcement for our area. We handle these details so your patio lasts for decades instead of developing problems after a few winters.

Ready to Transform Your Backyard?

Let us show you how a custom concrete patio can improve your outdoor living space. We serve homeowners throughout Fond du Lac and surrounding areas. Call us today for a free consultation and quote.

Concrete Patios