Category: Building

A smart investment won’t break the bank. That defeats the purpose. So when it comes to home improvements, it’s important to think about how you can maximize both the value of your home—and how you enjoy your property.

Going with a custom outdoor living area is a great way to check both of those boxes. But one thing is certain: You shouldn’t pay outrageous prices for your building materials.

Run the Numbers: Wood Decks or Concrete Patios?

Whether you want more space to host cookouts or just a place to soak up the sun, the value of spending time outdoors is really hard to measure. Still, it makes sense to think about the costs. You want to make your backyard that oasis you’ve been dreaming about. And of course, quality counts too. So how do you find that happy balance?

First off, it helps to know what’s going on in the market. The costs of your building materials will be ruled by supply and demand. When you’re working to decide between a wood deck or a stamped concrete patio, it’s important to note that concrete is traditionally way more affordable, and even more so right now.

The logistics of transporting lumber have gotten more difficult to manage recently due to new restrictions. Long story short, we’re looking at sky-high prices for lumber, which is why concrete is becoming more and more appealing.

 

More Affordable, and More Versatile

Not only are concrete patios more cost-effective, but your concrete contractors can also give you loads of options for customizing your patio. In fact, you can even get your stamped concrete patio to look just like high-end lumber. Those features alone make a strong case for concrete patios over wood decks. It’s like getting the best of both worlds.

You even get other benefits too. There are endless possibilities for working with colored concrete to give your patio a one-of-a-kind look. This sort of customization offers a lot more than your typical wood stain, and also makes it easier to find a design that will match both your own aesthetic as well as your home’s exterior. You could also look into exposed aggregate concrete features to add even more depth and interest to your final project. You just need the right team to bring your ideas to life.

 

Concrete Contractors You Can Trust

The upsides of stamped concrete patios have been pretty clear for decades, but the recent changes with lumber costs make the decision even simpler. With concrete, you can explore all sorts of unique designs and even mimic the features of expensive building materials, including lumber. If you’re still on the fence, it always helps to talk with a local company.

Researching the top concrete contractors in your area is the right place to start. Not every team will have the experience you’ll want to create something truly unique, so it helps to check out some of the reviews your neighbors have left. Being able to browse recent projects will help you get a feel for their attention to detail and design approach. Hire the right team, and you’ll be able to create a new outdoor living area that lives up to all of your expectations. Plus, by going with concrete, you’ll get it at the right price!

For those in construction, safety is always a top concern. And we want our clients and partners to know that we’re taking social distancing very seriously—but that doesn’t mean we’re slowing down. Our process at Lunar Companies already works well with these social distancing practices. Whether it’s our own crews on-site or interacting with our clients, we’re proud to continue adhering to every situation’s safety protocols.

Concrete Quotes During Social Distancing

Because our work hasn’t stopped, we need to make sure our systems are operating with respect to the times. Now that the CDC’s guidance for social distancing has become the common practice to help keep people safe during the coronavirus outbreak, we’re ready to do our part. This means a few things:

1. Outside Consultations

It’s already standard practice for us to talk outside. We need to get a look at your property, so there’s no real reason to come inside for a consultation.

2. Stepping Back

That being said, the open air isn’t enough to keep everyone protected. We’ll be sure to practice social distancing for each project quote and every type of construction work.

3. Ongoing Education

Regular check-ins with our crews allow us to stay on top of safety, as well. We need to make sure that we all feel healthy enough to work. Additionally, we know that we need to practice social distancing within our own company.

Safety First—We’re Here to Help

Your home improvement dreams don’t need to get put on hold. If you’re ready to enjoy a new concrete patio or finally update your walkways, our team is ready to get your project underway. This time of year is a great for getting your concrete quote ready for review.

To learn more about our process, please don’t hesitate to send us a message on our contact page. You’re also welcome to give our office a call at (317) 417-1881. We’d be happy to schedule a time to safely meet and discuss your vision for your backyard or your home’s entryway. Let’s get to work!

If you’re trying to decide how to move forward with your next home improvement project, it’s easy for us to make a case for concrete. While other building materials like wood and stone certainly have their place, the versatility you get with concrete simply can’t be beat.

Why is Concrete the Better Choice?

There are plenty of reasons why going with concrete is the go-to option for hardscapes. But have you considered the other things residential concrete companies can create? It’s time to think beyond basic “utility.” The design elements that concrete can deliver are both versatile and cost-effective—and they have a definite aesthetic appeal.

Outdoor living areas have a great ROI

Everyone wants to get a good return on their investment. That’s why people opt for outdoor living areas. Sure, it might be nice to install new carpet upstairs, but it’s also important to consider what brings you personal satisfaction on a day-to-day basis. There are a lot of benefits to having a little backyard oasis. Extending the living area of your home is always a plus for your home value. Plus, you can have a greater sense of pride in your home when you’re outside and the weather is nice.

Concrete stands the test of time

There’s a reason why so many major buildings are constructed with concrete. This material is durable and reliably lasts for decades. When you work with the right team, your feature will both look great and serve your home as a long-lasting investment. That’s why it’s such a popular choice for homeowners looking to improve their backyard setting. Concrete patios are here to stay.

There is little maintenance or upkeep required

Unlike other home beautification projects, your concrete work is basically complete right when your contractors leave. You aren’t left with any demanding chores, maintenance, or other upkeep that you might get from other landscaping projects. Of course, you can always give your concrete patio a quick pressure wash down the road or seal the concrete periodically to help it look its best. But on the whole, it’s easy to kick back and relax.

Decorative concrete works with any style

It doesn’t matter whether your home’s architecture is traditional or modern. Custom concrete can help you maximize your personal style by complementing all aspects of your home’s exterior and landscaping. You can stay simple with broom finish concrete work for the base of your backyard shed, or go with something a little more charming, like an exposed aggregate walkway around the side of the house. Concrete can do it all.

You can mimic most any building material

The world of decorative concrete seems to have unlimited options for customization. Don’t forget that you can select the color of your concrete, and even whether you want to use stamped concrete. In doing so, your design can have a striking resemblance to other building items like slate, cobblestone, or even wood. Plus, it helps you cut back on costs. Why bother paying for expensive materials when getting the same look with concrete is so affordable?

 

If you’re ready to start discussing your options and planning your next decorative concrete project, our team at Lunar Concrete would be happy to help! Just send us a message to check our availability, or call us at (317) 417-1881. Let’s create something beautiful!