Patio Project

This is what our backyard used to look like.

Perfectly functional, but the area outside the door presented some drainage issues.  In other words, it was a mud pit.  And when that is the primary exit/entrance for an 80 lb. Labradiva and now a 27 lb. toddler, mud pit is not ideal.

First, Drew solved our drainage issues by installing a catch basin, digging a trench and running drainage pipe underground and out to the street.  After that was complete, we let the experts (Drew's buddy Chris Perkins) at Jayhawk Concrete take over.

And so the patio construction began.

Day 1:  Decide on the patio shape, frame it out, lay rebar and anchor it to the house.  It's also a good idea to hang plastic on the house for protection.

Day 2:  Watch excitedly as the concrete truck arrives.

Then pour the concrete.  In this case, it was dyed an earthy color (mesa to be exact) just before it was poured.  We had a border cut in approximately 8 inches from the edge and dyed that a complementary color, walnut.  We chose to have our concrete stamped, so while it was still slightly wet huge rubber mats were layed on top and a marble-looking impression was made.  I missed most of the action (it was a work day) but here is how it looked after Day 2.

Day 3:  The antiquing was added.  This process adds more highlights and texture to the stamping.  The patio was also scored and later that day sealed.  Here are some pics after being freshly antiqued (it will lighten as it dries). 

After curing for a couple of days, here is the finshed product.

Well, almost finished.  The pots you see above will not be staying.  I was just using them as props to determine where I wanted to place planters.  We will also be adding a row of roses along the retaining wall, replacing the light fixture, adding annuals or bushes in planters for color (haven't decided what yet) and possibly outdoor speakers.

Sure beats the mud pit, huh!  We're thrilled with how it turned out and can't wait to start entertaining our family and friends on the new patio.

So what are you waiting for?  Come on over!