Concrete patios are classy, durable, and an amazing way to add value to quaint home.
At some point, putting your tables and chairs in an undone yard gets old. I don't know about you, but I sure wouldn't enjoy an evening dinner party if my legs were being tickled by some stray grass.
Let me show you how you can have the most beautiful concrete patio on the block!
Functions
A patio is one place where people can really enjoy themselves at a party. In the afternoon hours, it is a perfect spot to have some balloons and enjoy a nice birthday party. In the evening, you can transform this into a nice candle-lit dinner area. If you are one of those people that just loves having people over, this is just the perfect gathering spot in the summer and spring months. Having a few flowers out and some upbeat music on can really make it the place to be!
Position & Size
Before building your patio, you need to make sure you think about the area it is going to be built. It can be an easier job if the terrain is already level. If not, it can be a lot more difficult. I would recommend you try to find a way to level the terrain before starting your other tasks, or choosing a level terrain in the first place. You may need to remove some dirt or purchase some sand/rocks to provide filler. What we really want here is to create a good foundation for the end product.
Shape & Width
The shape of your patio really depends on the yard. Are you connecting it to a garden, or are you connecting it to a path? Will it be near any walls that may impact the aesthetic? Be sure to think about any future projects/current ideas so that your patio doesn't make your life any more difficult than it needs to be. Another huge factor as far as price would be how large you intend the patio to be. The wider you want it, the more material and cost it will take. That is just something to think about before you go ahead with your project.
Strength, Quality, & Maintenance
When creating your patio, I recommend saving a bit of extra cash to get quality materials for the project. If you are planning to keep your home for a long time, creating it in the beginning with concrete/block paving will ensure that your future maintenance costs are low.
The most common materials used in patios are as follows:
Timber Decking Boards
Interlocking Pavers
Concrete
Paving Brick
Concrete Block Paving
I highly recommend concrete block paving or paving brick for a beautiful patio that will last you a long time. Any materials you will need can be found at your local home improvement store.
Permits
In some states, you need a permit to be able to build a patio on your property. Please make sure to do your due diligence in ensuring you have all the necessary permits in your state before you start your project, otherwise you could end up with a hefty fine.
Getting Into The Nitty-Gritty
Step 1. Hire Someone Experienced.
If this is your first time building a patio, you will definitely need an experience contractor to make sure you do a good job.
Step 2. Prepare.
Before your contractor gets there, make sure you allow yourself ample time to get rid of all the plants in the area for a clean slate when you begin.
Step 3. Mix Up!
Your contractor will have some metal framing that they will set down. From there, you can mix up the concrete. With your contractor there, they will be able to give you guidance as necessary.
Step 4. Pour the Concrete.
You will pour the concrete based on the metal framing your contractor set down. You need to ensure it is not too thick or thin - either can cause issues in the future. Investing in an asphalt rake can help you with this step.
Done!
A patio area is a beautiful way to spruce up your home and make gatherings more enjoyable. Once you are done with this first project, you will have the experience you need to be able to do similar projects in the future. We hope this article has given you some valuable insight to start your journey!