Whether you want a cozy nook to enjoy morning coffee or a grand space for entertaining, a patio can be a great way to blend indoor and outdoor living. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about adding a patio to your home, including average costs, common materials, design ideas, and more.
Planning Your Perfect Patio
Take time to thoughtfully plan your patio so that it meets your needs and complements your home. Here are some factors to consider when designing.
Choosing the Ideal Location
Unlike decks, which are elevated structures, patios are ground-level installations made from various materials such as concrete, pavers, or natural stone. The most common location for a patio is adjacent to the house, offering easy access and a natural extension of your indoor living space. This placement provides a built-in sun and wind barrier and makes it easy to attach awnings or covers. However, you might also consider a detached patio deeper in your yard for a more secluded space.
Think about the following when mapping out your design:
- How much privacy do you want from your neighbors?
- How close does your patio need to be to utilities (for outdoor kitchens or lighting)?
- How much sun exposure and shade do you need?
- What will your view be like?
Determining the Right Size
The intended use and available space will determine the size of your patio. A larger patio offers more living space but costs more and takes longer to set up. Consider these questions:
- How many people do you want to accommodate?
- What activities will take place on the patio?
- What furniture do you plan to include?
Budgetary Constraints
Your budget will play a significant role in determining the size, materials, and features of your patio. Consider the initial construction costs and long-term maintenance expenses. We recommend getting quotes from multiple contractors and comparing material costs to find the best balance.
Popular Patio Materials
Different materials have different looks, durability levels, and maintenance needs. Here are some of the most popular options.
Brick and Concrete Pavers
Brick and concrete pavers are popular because they’re versatile and easy to install. Many homeowners prefer concrete pavers that mimic the look of brick because they’re durable and resistant to cracks. These materials offer a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing for creative designs.
For a DIY-friendly choice, consider a simple pattern that minimizes the need to cut pavers. You can learn more about how to build a brick patio in our step-by-step guide.
Natural Stone Options
Natural stone patios offer unparalleled beauty and durability. Popular options include the following:
- Bluestone: Known for its deep navy hue and nonslip surface when heat-treated
- Flagstone: Ideal for creating a rustic, southwestern look
- Sandstone: Offers warm, earthy tones
Natural stone patios require skilled installation. Read our guide to laying a bluestone patio for more information.
Poured Concrete
Poured concrete patios have a smooth, uniform surface that you can customize with colors, stamps, or acid staining. While it may seem like a simple DIY project, large concrete pours often require professional equipment and expertise to ensure proper installation and prevent cracking.
Wood and Composite Decking
While technically different from traditional patios, ground-level decks made from wood or composite materials can serve a similar purpose. These materials have a warm, natural look and can be an excellent choice for uneven terrain where leveling for stone or concrete might be challenging.
Patio Underlayment
A long-lasting patio is all about the prep work. If you lay pavers on a haphazardly considered base, the stones could shift and become a tripping hazard in just a few seasons. There are two common ways to underlay a patio:
- Dry: Dry-laid consists of laying pavers directly on a bed of compacted sand or crushed stone. This allows you to easily remove pavers if you ever need to repair or alter the patio. Dry-laid pavers will spread over time if not gripped by a solid border.
- Mortared: A mortared, or wet-laid, pavement takes a little more work, but provides a flatter surface with a longer lifespan. You generally start with a crushed stone base topped with a thick concrete slab. When the concrete cures, you press the pavers into a mortar bed troweled onto the slab. The spaces between the pavers are filled with mortar.
Cost Considerations for Patios
The cost of a patio can vary widely based on several factors. In the table below, we’ve highlighted the average costs of common patio materials. Expect to pay more if you need to hire professional help or do extra landscaping work.
| Material | Cost per Square Foot* |
|---|---|
| Poured concrete | $2–$15 |
| Concrete pavers | $8–$15 |
| Brick | $10–$20 |
| Natural stone | $15–$50 |
| Wood decking | $30–$60 |
Patio Installation Steps
Building a patio involves several steps for a stable, long-lasting structure. Here’s a general overview of the process, which differs by material:
- Site preparation: Mark the patio and excavate to the proper depth, ensuring proper drainage as you go. Make sure the soil is compacted enough to support the patio.
- Laying the foundation: Add layers of gravel and sand as needed, compacting each layer as you go.
- Installing the patio surface: Follow the best practices for your material to lay the patio surface. This may involve pouring concrete, installing joists, or simply laying stones.
- Final touches: Add edging, fill in joints, apply sealant, or install additional features such as built-in seating.
DIY vs. Professional Patio Installation
Deciding whether to tackle your patio project yourself or hire a professional depends on several factors:
| Tackle it yourself if: | Hire a pro if: |
|---|---|
| • You have experience with similar projects • The patio design is simple • The patio is relatively small • You have the tools and the time | • You have little or no experience with this type of project • The patio design is large or complex • You don’t have the time or resources • You’re using difficult materials, such as concrete • You want a warranty |
Here are some of our tips if you’re working with a contractor:
- Get local references from your friends and neighbors to find a well-reputed hardscaping contractor.
- Ask to see a portfolio of recent work.
- Do some design research before you call in the contractor and be clear on what you like. Make a list of your desires and rate them in importance: What’s your favorite stone? The ultimate size? Do you want an outdoor kitchen? A fire hearth? A pergola?
- Be clear about your budget in the first conversation.
- Check for licenses and insurance to make sure your professionals are covered while they are on your property.
- Provide easy access to the patio site for the workers and their equipment. If necessary, surround plants with caution tape.
Enhancing Your Patio
Once your patio is installed, you can make it your own with furniture, decor, and landscaping.
Furniture and Decor Ideas
Choose well-made patio furniture that complements your home’s style and suits your intended use of the space. Look for the following:
- Comfortable seating options
- Outdoor dining sets
- Outdoor rugs to define spaces
- Shade structures such as umbrellas or pergolas
Lighting Options
Proper lighting allows you to use your patio even in the evening hours. Consider these options:
- Built-in lighting for steps or walls
- Fire pits for a cozy feeling
- LED spotlights for accent lighting
- Solar-powered path lights
- String lights for ambiance
Incorporating Greenery
Plants can soften the hardscape and create a more inviting atmosphere. Consider these option:
- Container gardens
- Hanging baskets
- Climbing vines on trellises
- Surrounding landscaping that complements the patio
Patio Maintenance and Longevity
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your patio remains beautiful and functional. Here are some tips.
Cleaning and Sealing
Regular cleaning prevents staining and dirt buildup. Depending on the material, you may need to do one or more of the following:
- Sweep regularly
- Wash with a mild detergent solution
- Apply a sealant every few years to protect the surface
Addressing Common Issues
Be proactive in addressing issues such as the following:
- Weed growth between pavers
- Settling or unevenness
- Cracks in concrete or mortar
Seasonal Care Tips
Adapt your maintenance routine to the seasons by following the chart below.
| Spring Clean thoroughly and inspect for winter damage | Summer Keep the patio clean and monitor for weed growth |
| Fall Clear leaves and prepare for winter | Winter Remove snow and ice carefully to prevent damage |
Our Conclusion
A well-designed patio can enhance your quality of life and boost your home’s value. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and the various options available, you can create an outdoor space that perfectly complements your home and lifestyle.