Most homeowners will determine poured concrete is cheaper than wood decking, pavers, and almost any other hard surface material. For most projects, it takes less time to pour concrete than to construct a patio out of wood or pavers.  This is also the reason most home builders use it for driveways, walkways, & patios.

Concrete should be cleaned & sealed routinely in Michigan if you use any type of salt or chemical for de-icing in the winter.  How often you clean & reseal depends upon our winter and the amount of vehicle traffic you experience.

The natural color of concrete is gray and really comes from the fact Iron Ore is black and when combined with other materials in the process, you get a tinted gray.  Homeowners have the choice of ordering concrete in multiple colors.