Stamped & Colored Concrete Patio — Harbor Walk Ct, Fort Collins
- Fort collins, CO
Project Challenges
This Harbor Walk Ct project in Fort Collins came with several technical challenges that had to be carefully solved before any concrete could be poured:
- Tight working space with limited access for our equipment
- A mature tree the homeowner wanted us to keep in place
- Uneven soil and exposed and excessive roots requiring careful grading
- Future heavy outdoor furniture needing a stronger slab structure
- Drainage issues near the home that required proper correction
- A walkway and fire‑pit area that needed to be added to the patio seamlessly
Every step had to be well planned to ensure long‑term durability in Colorado’s freeze‑thaw climate.
Ground Prep & Structural Work
Before forming this patio, we completed a full ground inspections and preparation process designed for Fort Collins soil conditions:
- Removed loose soil and leveled the entire area
- Compacted the ground to prevent settling and cracking
- Installed gutter extensions under the patio to move water away from the home and eliminate future drainage problems
- Added a reinforced base layer for durable foundation
- Used #4 rebar instead of #3 throughout the slab to support heavy furniture, fire‑pit weight, and long‑term use
This professional prep work is what makes the final patio last decades instead of a few seasons
Tree Preservation & Custom Design
The homeowner asked us to keep the large tree that anchors the backyard. Instead of removing it, we designed a custom circular opening around the trunk, giving it correct clearance for growth while turning it into an art centerpiece of the patio.
This required:
- Proper measurement around the root zone
- A precise custom circular form
- Extra compaction around the perimeter
- A nice looking layout that blends the patio, walkway, and fire‑pit area naturally
The homeowner was thrilled that we preserved the tree and made it part of the design
After — Stamped & Colored Concrete Transformation
The finished patio features:
- A large stamped and colored concrete surface with a natural flagstone texture
- A connecting new walkway
- A dedicated fire‑pit area
- A proper circular tree opening
- A durable slab built for Colorado weather and heavy use
The transformation from bare, uneven ground to a fully finished outdoor living space is dramatic, and built to last
Homeowner Questions & Our Expert Answers
1. What type of ground prep was done before you poured the patio?
We removed loose soil, leveled the ground, compacted the road base, and reinforced it for Colorado’s harsh freeze‑thaw cycles. This project also required installing gutter extensions under the patio to move water away from the home and prevent drainage issues.
2. Why did you use #4 rebar instead of mesh?
Because the client planned to place heavy outdoor furniture and a fire pit on the patio, #4 rebar provided the strength needed for long‑term durability. It’s the best reinforcement choice for large stamped patios in Fort Collins.
3. Can you install and pour concrete in tight spaces or around existing landscaping?
Yes — this Harbor Walk Ct project had very tight access, a large tree, and multiple layout elements. We designed the patio, walkway, and fire‑pit area to fit the space without removing landscaping or compromising the design.
4. Are you licensed and insured?
The homeowner asked us this question when we first came for an estimate, and we confirmed that we’re fully licensed and insured in Colorado.
See the Transformation
