Concrete Patios
Create your perfect outdoor living space with a custom concrete patio designed for California's desert climate.
Why Build a Concrete Patio
Your backyard should be more than just grass and dirt. A concrete patio gives you a solid, comfortable space where you can relax, entertain friends and family, or enjoy a quiet evening outdoors. Unlike wood decks that warp and splinter or pavers that shift and settle, concrete stays level and stable for decades.
Here in Calexico, we know what it's like to deal with extreme heat. A well-designed concrete patio can actually help keep your outdoor space more comfortable. Light-colored concrete reflects heat instead of absorbing it, and when you add a covered area or pergola, you create a shaded retreat that stays cool even on the hottest days.
The best part? Concrete patios require almost no maintenance. You won't spend weekends staining, sealing, or replacing damaged boards like you would with wood. A simple sweep and occasional rinse keeps your patio looking great year after year. When you work with Calexico Concrete for your patio installation, you're investing in quality outdoor living space that adds real value to your home.
Concrete Patio Advantages
- Built to last: Concrete patios easily last 25 to 30 years with minimal care.
- Weather resistant: Handles rain, heat, and sun exposure without warping, fading, or rotting.
- Design flexibility: Choose from colors, textures, patterns, and finishes that match your home's style.
- Easy to clean: Spills, dirt, and debris wash away with a garden hose.
- Cost effective: Lower upfront cost than many alternatives and virtually no ongoing maintenance expenses.
Design Your Dream Patio
Gone are the days when concrete meant boring gray slabs. Today's concrete patios offer incredible design flexibility that lets you create an outdoor space as unique as your home.
Stamped Patterns
Stamped concrete lets you achieve the look of high-end materials like natural stone, brick, or slate at a fraction of the cost. We press patterns into the wet concrete that create realistic textures and shapes. Popular choices include flagstone, cobblestone, wood plank, and tile patterns. Each creates a distinct look that can dramatically change the feel of your outdoor space.
Color Options
We can integrate color directly into the concrete or apply stains and dyes after it cures. This gives you nearly unlimited color possibilities. Earth tones like tan, terracotta, and sandstone blend naturally with desert landscaping. Or choose bolder colors to make a statement. We can even combine multiple colors in one patio for added visual interest.
Texture and Finish
Different finishes serve different purposes. A smooth trowel finish creates a sleek, modern look perfect for contemporary homes. Broom finishes add subtle texture and slip resistance, making them ideal for areas near pools. Exposed aggregate reveals the natural beauty of the stones within the concrete, creating a decorative, textured surface that's also highly durable.
If you're looking for something truly special, explore our stamped and decorative concrete services to see the full range of what's possible.
How We Build Your Patio
Every great patio starts with careful planning and proper preparation. Here's what you can expect when we build your concrete patio.
Planning and Layout
We start by discussing your vision, taking measurements, and considering how the patio will connect to your home and yard. We'll talk about size, shape, and any features you want like built-in seating areas, fire pit locations, or borders. We also plan for proper drainage so water flows away from your house.
Site Preparation
Next, we excavate the area to the right depth and remove any grass, roots, or debris. We create a level base using compacted gravel that provides a stable foundation. This step is critical because a solid base prevents settling and cracking down the road.
Forming and Reinforcing
We set up forms around the perimeter to contain the concrete and create clean edges. Then we install rebar or wire mesh reinforcement that gives the concrete extra strength and helps prevent cracks. For larger patios, we also plan control joints that allow the concrete to expand and contract naturally.
Pouring and Finishing
On pour day, we place the concrete carefully and work it to eliminate air pockets. We level and smooth the surface, then apply your chosen finish. If you selected stamping or decorative elements, we add those while the concrete is still workable. The timing has to be just right to achieve perfect results. If you're also considering updating your home's entry, check out our driveway installation services to complete your exterior upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a concrete patio cost?
Patio costs vary based on size, design complexity, and finishes you choose. A basic concrete patio costs less per square foot than decorative options with stamping or multiple colors. However, even decorative concrete typically costs less than natural stone or pavers while offering similar beauty. We provide free estimates that break down all costs so you can make an informed decision. The investment usually pays off quickly when you consider how much use you'll get from your new outdoor living space.
How long does it take to install a concrete patio?
Most residential patios take 2 to 3 days from start to finish, though the timeline depends on size and complexity. Site preparation and forming usually take the first day. We pour and finish the concrete on day two. After that, the concrete needs time to cure before you can use it. You can walk on it after about 24 hours, but we recommend waiting 3 to 7 days before placing heavy furniture. The concrete reaches full strength after about 28 days.
Will my concrete patio crack?
Some minor cracking is normal in concrete, but proper installation greatly reduces this risk. We use several techniques to prevent and control cracks, including proper base preparation, steel reinforcement, and strategically placed control joints. Control joints create planned weak points where cracks form in straight lines rather than randomly across your patio. We also use quality concrete mixes designed for our climate and ensure proper curing. With these methods, your patio should remain largely crack-free for many years.