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    Illustration of a bare backyard area before a patio is planned
    Example condition
    Illustration of a finished stamped concrete patio appearance
    Example finished appearance

    Project planning illustrations. These images are not documented photos of a specific job.

    Patios · Project Planning Example

    Stamped Concrete Patio Planning Example

    Project Planning Example: This page illustrates a typical concrete project scenario for educational and planning purposes. It is not presented as a documented DSM Concrete Companies customer project. Images are illustrative, and any figures shown are hypothetical examples.

    Planning context: Ankeny, IATypical timeline: Often several days plus curing time, varies by size and weather

    A stamped patio project in Ankeny may involve correcting backyard drainage, choosing a pattern and color, and planning a slab that holds up to Iowa freeze-thaw cycles.

    Quick Answer: How much does a new patio cost in Des Moines?

    A new concrete patio in Des Moines typically costs $6-17 per square foot installed, with stamped and colored options at the higher end. Final pricing depends on size, design and site preparation.

    Typical planning range. Actual pricing varies by project size, thickness, site access, removal, base preparation, reinforcement, drainage and finish.

    Last updated: October 2026

    Common Conditions You May Encounter

    Many Ankeny backyards, especially in newer developments like Prairie Trail, sit on compacted clay that drains poorly and stays muddy after rain. Property owners often want a permanent, low-maintenance outdoor space that looks like natural stone without the cost or upkeep of pavers.

    A Typical Approach

    A common approach is to grade the area so water flows away from the house toward landscaping or drains, install a compacted base, and pour an air-entrained slab. While the concrete is still workable, a stamp pattern such as ashlar slate is pressed in, with integral color and a contrasting release agent for depth. A sealer is applied after curing and typically re-applied every few years.

    What Should You Ask During Your Estimate?

    • Decide on pattern, base color and release color before scheduling
    • Ask how drainage and grading will be handled around the patio
    • Discuss whether steps, seating walls or borders will be included
    • Ask how often the sealer should be re-applied in Iowa
    • Compare stamped concrete to pavers for your budget and maintenance preferences
    • Ask about project-specific workmanship and material coverage during your estimate

    Example Specifications

    Hypothetical and typical figures for planning only. Your project's specifications are set during an on-site estimate.

    Example area
    ~400 sq ft (hypothetical)
    Example pattern
    Ashlar slate
    Color approach
    Integral color + release agent
    Common thickness
    4 inches
    Optional features
    Steps, seating wall, borders

    Project timelines vary by size, site conditions, weather, concrete type and scope.

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