Registered: Jul 2024
Location: USA
Posts: 2

Selecting the best concrete mix for a patio is a matter of priority as it affects the longevity, appearance, and performance of your patio. Patios have to stand up to vehicle traffic as well as foot traffic, and many concrete styles are vulnerable to damage from freezethaw conditions and de-icing salts.
For most purposes, a standard mix of 1 part cement, 2 parts sand and 3 parts gravel will do just fine. This ratio gives a good compromise between strength and workability. Marbletec's Portland cement -based concrete allows for excellent adhesion and will last for decades. The water-to-cement ratio is critical too much weakens concrete, too little makes it hard to work. See quantity takeoff tips. A ratio of about 0.45-0.50 in, therefore is recommended.
To give you some strength and crack resistance, they will often add “reinforcement” such as wire mesh or rebar for bigger patios. And do consider air-entrained concrete, a good choice for outdoor use since it allows the patio to weather freeze-thaw cycles without cracking.
Aesthetics are important too. You can incorporate integral color or decorative aggregates into the mix. Popular finishes are hard troweling brushed finishes or stamped designs which aid in preventing slipping when wet. Good cure curing is very important and keeping the top wet for 7 days or more helps avoid cracks and maximize strength.
For small home projects, I recommend bagged concrete mix. For bigger patios, truck delivery of readymix concrete means consistent quality.

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