Patio Construction – What You Need to Know

Patio construction requires a skilled team with the right tools of the trade. Professionals understand local zoning and building codes to ensure your new patio meets all requirements.

Consider your budget and aesthetic. Tile and slate offer a range of tints, while wood provides a warm and traditional aesthetic.

Layout

Patios are flat, paved outdoor spaces that offer a comfortable spot for relaxing and entertaining. They are often found adjacent to the house and can be a natural extension of indoor living.

Patios can be constructed with a variety of materials. Some popular choices include concrete, flagstone, pavers, and tile. Each material has its own unique benefits and features.

Some homeowners choose a natural stone patio to bring a rustic and organic look to the backyard. However, a stone patio can be more costly than other options because it requires more labor to cut and fit the stones together.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider a poured concrete patio. This can be textured or colored to give it the appearance of brick, stone or pavers. If you’re worried about the bare concrete look, try adding a stamped or scored pattern to your concrete. Before laying your paving stones, wet and compact the area to ensure it is level and smooth.

Materials

Choosing the right patio materials is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make during this process. The right material can impact your patio’s aesthetic, durability and maintenance needs.

Concrete pavers and slabs are the most popular choice for homeowners due to their affordability and durability. They can be shaped to produce unique designs and patterns that can add visual interest to your patio. Before pouring, the material should be lightly wetted and a leveling sand spread over it. This layer should be tamped with a rented plate compactor before laying the bricks or concrete.

For a more natural look, flagstone patios can add beauty to any landscape design. The stones are quarried and cut to create a distinctive appearance, while also providing slip-resistant surfaces. They’re also versatile and work well with a variety of landscape and architectural styles. However, the stones can be brittle and prone to etching. They can also be quite expensive.

Drainage

Water needs somewhere to go, and patios without a plan for water redirection can suffer from numerous issues. Standing water creates slippery surfaces, promotes mold and mildew growth and can damage foundations if left unchecked over time. Addressing drainage issues early on ensures that your new patio stays in top condition.

Ideally, your patio should be elevated and designed with a slight slope that encourages water to flow naturally off the surface into designated drainage areas. Professional contractors can install various draining solutions, such as French drains, to manage runoff and minimize water-related issues.

A French drain is a underground drainage system that uses a gravel-lined trench to collect and seep water gradually into the soil. This is an efficient solution for many landscapes but it is important to consult with your local codes and regulations regarding proper size and placement. Your contractor can evaluate your property and help you determine the best options for your unique garden.

Finishing

Adding the final touches to your patio gives it an attractive look. This could include landscaping and furnishings to make it more functional for you and your guests to enjoy. Your contractor may also install seating walls and add lighting to create a relaxing outdoor area for evening use.

For elevated patios, a concrete foundation is poured to ensure the structure remains level and secure throughout weather changes. This allows you to paving materials over the top without requiring any extra steps or work to build the patio on a slope.

Depending on the material used, some patios require regular care to keep them looking their best. This includes sealant to protect wood from moisture and de-icing solutions to mitigate freeze-thaw cycles that cause settling and displacement. Your contractor can recommend the right products and services for your needs. They can also help you obtain any necessary building permits if needed, eliminating hassle and saving time.

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