Concrete Patios
A Patio That Handles Colorado's Freeze-Thaw Cycles
A poured concrete patio is one of the more durable options for outdoor living space, but how well it holds up in Fort Collins depends heavily on how it’s installed. Proper sub-base prep, control joints, and curing time all matter more here than in a milder climate, since freeze-thaw cycles are hard on concrete that wasn’t finished correctly the first time. As a concrete contractor serving Fort Collins and Northern Colorado, HWG Exteriors provides full-service site prep and concrete installation designed with our climate in mind, not just the finish you see on top.
Note: We specialize in poured concrete patios. If you’re looking for paver installation or broader landscaping work, those fall outside our current services.
Concrete Patio Finish Options
Standard Broom Finish
A clean, slip-resistant broom finish is the most budget-friendly option and works well for homeowners who want a simple, functional patio without a heavy design investment.
Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate concrete reveals the decorative stone mixed into the concrete itself by washing away a thin layer of the surface paste after pouring. It offers a naturally textured, slip-resistant finish that holds up well outdoors and gives the patio a distinct look compared to a smooth or stamped surface.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete uses textured molds pressed into the surface before it cures, creating the look of natural stone, brick, or tile at a lower cost than the real material. It's a popular choice for homeowners who want more visual interest without the higher price point of pavers or natural stone.
Color & Design Options
Beyond the finish type, concrete patios can be tinted, stained, or scored into patterns to further customize the look. We'll walk through the design options that work with your home's style and your budget during your estimate.
Why Homeowners Choose HWG Exteriors for Concrete Services
Our crews handle everything from site prep through the final finish, so you’re not coordinating between separate excavation and concrete teams. We aim for responsive service and an efficient turnaround on every project, backed by the kind of detailed workmanship that holds up to quality residential standards over the long run. Customer satisfaction comes from getting a patio that looks good on day one and still looks good years later — that’s the standard we build to.
Sealing & Maintenance
Sealing a concrete patio helps protect it from moisture penetration, staining, and the freeze-thaw damage that’s common in Colorado if water gets into small surface cracks and expands when it freezes. We recommend resealing every few years depending on the sealant type and how much sun and foot traffic the patio gets — we’ll go over a maintenance schedule specific to your patio’s finish.
What Affects Concrete Patio Cost
Size, finish type, and the amount of site prep needed all affect the overall cost of a patio project. A standard broom finish sits at the lower end of the cost range, while stamped concrete and exposed aggregate carry a higher cost due to the additional labor and materials involved. We’ll provide a detailed, itemized estimate before any work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between stamped concrete and exposed aggregate?
Stamped concrete uses textured molds to mimic the look of stone, brick, or tile, while exposed aggregate reveals the natural stone mixed into the concrete by washing away the top layer of paste after pouring. Both offer more visual interest than a standard broom finish.
How long does a concrete patio take to install?
Most residential patio projects take a few days for the pour and finishing work, followed by a curing period before the patio can handle full foot traffic and furniture.
Why does concrete crack in Colorado, and can it be prevented?
Freeze-thaw cycles and ground movement are the most common causes of cracking. Proper sub-base preparation and correctly placed control joints during installation significantly reduce the risk, though minor surface cracking over many years is common with any concrete.
Do you install pavers or handle landscaping around the patio?
No, we specialize in poured concrete patios. For paver installation or broader landscaping work, we’d recommend a contractor who specializes in those services specifically.
Get a Free Concrete Patio Estimate
Whether you’re picturing a simple broom-finish patio or a fully stamped design, HWG Exteriors can help you plan and build it.
Call (970) 893-9006 or request a free concrete patio estimate online.