Question
Hi Sean, me and my husband would like to add some concrete on our backyard. We are still trying to figure out whether we should get just plain concrete or go with something fancier such as flagstone,stained concrete,decorative concrete or stamped concrete. Approximately how much more does it cost to get any of these than just plain concrete? Also,  which of all these has the best quality and is more durable?

Answer

Stone Patio from SeanJ Hello Elsa:

Your question about the cost or price of concrete verses other hard surfaces such as flagstone, stained concrete, etc is a good question.
The first thing to understand is that price of these materials and methods can vary widely depending on local availability and access. For example in a big city, concrete and flag stone are usually readily available and relatively cheap. But the key is the word "relatively". Because if you are only pouring a small patio you will still have to pay the minimum for a concrete truck delivery which is often 3 yards or more. The bigger the project the more economical concrete becomes. Also if you live in a rural area delivery, etc can add up quickly.
Access is also key, if the contractor has to hand carry all the materials to the job site it will cost more than if they can back a truck right up to it.
It is also important to note that a typical flagstone patio requires a concrete base first so your paying for concrete no matter what. Then they have to set the stone in mortar which is set on the concrete slab. This is much more work.

Ok, so now to give you some general idea of cost.
It is impossible to quote closely because concrete costs vary widely around the country and by locale. However, in general, I have found to have a stone patio grouted in place is typically about 3.5 times the cost of plain concrete. Stamped and stained concrete (they are usually done together) is usually about 2.5 times the cost of plain concrete but can be a lot more for a high quality multi color job.

Its been more than two years since my last quotes on any of these but I recall the following as local prices for Atlanta Area through the last 5 years or so: Plain concrete $2.50/sf for a big job to $4.50/sf for a smaller job. Stamped concrete ranges from $6.50/sf to $13.00/sf for a really top notch multi-color job with great detail.  And flagstone grouted to a concrete base typically starts at $12.00/sf and goes up depending on stone type and finish. A waterproof sealant adds more to any of these.

As for durability. You can't beat plain concrete if done right. However many stamped concrete surfaces include a color hardener made of Portland cement (an active component of concrete) which increases the durability of the surface several times over. Flag stones can be very durable also but the quality of the job is critical. If done poorly the stones can pop loose in just a year or two. Also the stone selected needs to be a hard stone. Be sure to try a scratch test on different rocks you evaluate to see which shows the least damage when scratched with a rock chip...simulating furniture drags.

From an aesthetic point of view you can not beat natural stone. Although stamped and stained concrete can be done very well, more often than not, I am not satisfied with the work of most contractors. It takes years to master and may guys who say they do good work really don't. Be sure to see recent examples of their work specifically of the crew that will be doing your work. Or request a mock up for approval before authorizing the work. Then in the contract make it clear the work must meet or exceed the quality of the mock up or it will be rejected and redone. The best guys will do this other will walk.

Lastly, Consider return on the investment. Is this just a small patio where it will be hidden under a bunch of chairs, tables and a BBQ? If so don't blow big money trying to dress up a walking surface. Or if your home is in a neighborhood with no other stone patios...don't make yours the white elephant.
But no matter what I say... make it what you want, after all you are the one who will have to look at it. Best of Luck...please check out my websites to learn more about landscaping.
http://www.seanjmurphy.com and http://www.amenityarchitects.com


Sean J Murphy, LA, ISA, LEED AP