Solid Foundations for Outdoor Living Spaces

Concrete patios, slabs, and flatwork for homes in the Pacific Northwest

A concrete patio or slab creates a stable, low-maintenance surface for outdoor furniture, grills, fire pits, and foot traffic. In the Pacific Northwest, where wet soil and seasonal moisture can make bare ground muddy and uneven, a properly poured concrete slab keeps outdoor areas usable year-round. Peak Exteriors handles site preparation, grading, and finishing to deliver flatwork that drains correctly and holds up under constant use.


We begin every concrete project by grading the site and compacting the base material to prevent settling and cracking over time. A solid base is critical in areas with clay-heavy soil, which expands and contracts with moisture changes. Expansion joints are placed at intervals to allow the concrete to shift slightly without cracking, and we finish the surface with a broom or trowel texture depending on your preference. Concrete patios also serve as the foundation for outdoor kitchens and deck installations, providing a level surface that integrates with other backyard structures. Free estimates and financing options are available for all concrete projects.


If you need a new patio or slab poured in the greater Portland area, get in touch with Peak Exteriors to schedule an estimate and review your site.

How Base Prep and Grading Prevent Long-Term Problems

We start by excavating the area to the correct depth, then adding a layer of compacted gravel or crushed rock to create a stable base that drains water away from the slab. In Tualatin, where drainage is a common concern, we grade the base to slope away from the house so water does not pool against the foundation. Forms are set to define the edges of the pour, and rebar or wire mesh is added for reinforcement before the concrete is placed.


After the pour, you will have a level, durable surface that does not shift, sink, or develop dips where water collects. Properly graded concrete directs runoff toward yard drains or landscape edges instead of letting it sit on the slab. Expansion joints allow the concrete to move slightly with temperature changes, which reduces the chance of large cracks forming across the surface. The finished slab is smooth enough for outdoor furniture but textured enough to prevent slipping when wet.


We handle all phases of the concrete work, including excavation, forming, pouring, and finishing. This service includes grading and base preparation but does not include landscaping, retaining walls, or drainage systems beyond basic slope adjustments. Decorative finishes like stamping or staining are available as upgrades and must be discussed during the estimate. Concrete takes several days to cure fully, and we will provide guidelines for when you can walk on or place items on the new surface.

Questions Homeowners Ask Before Pouring Concrete

Most people want to know how long the concrete takes to cure, whether it will crack, and what affects the final cost. These are the questions we answer before starting a pour.

How thick should a concrete patio be?
Most residential patios are poured four inches thick, which is enough to support furniture, grills, and foot traffic. Slabs that will hold heavier loads, like vehicles, are typically six inches thick or more.
Why do you add expansion joints?
Expansion joints create controlled breaks in the slab so concrete can expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking randomly. These joints are placed every eight to ten feet depending on the size of the pour.
How long before I can use the new concrete?
You can walk on the concrete after 24 to 48 hours, but it takes about seven days to cure enough for furniture and heavier items. Full strength develops over 28 days.
Will the concrete crack over time?
Some minor cracking is normal as concrete cures and settles, but proper base preparation and expansion joints minimize the risk of large cracks. We cannot guarantee a crack-free surface, but we build slabs to reduce that likelihood.
Can you pour concrete in the rain?
We avoid pouring during active rain because water on the surface weakens the concrete and affects the finish. If rain is forecasted, we delay the pour until conditions improve.

Peak Exteriors has been pouring concrete patios and slabs in Tualatin for more than 30 years, working on flat lots, sloped yards, and properties with drainage challenges. If you need a new patio or slab, learn more by contacting us to schedule a free estimate and walk through your project details.