Patios are a great addition to any home to add another space for relaxation, outdoor cooking, or entertaining. The thought of designing and building a patio might be a daunting one but it doesn’t have to be. Read on to learn about what goes into building a patio, and if you’re up for it, connect with a pro and get started today!
Planning
Prior to beginning any work, you’ll want to choose some of your patios features. This can include what type of stone you’re going to use, the colour, the shape and size, and any other designs that you might be incorporating, such as plants or furniture.
While a lot of the design is left up to you, it is best to consult with a pro about the best materials, location, and size of your patio for the best results. They can also offer experience and knowledge in the field to assist you in planning some or even all of the project.
Location
Picking the location for your patio is a very important part of the project. While you may have a pre-decided location, it might not work out. In planning for the location, if possible, you’ll want to think about shade, drainage, and digging.
Shade may not be desired, but you’ll want it eventually. If you have pre-existing shaded spots, consider placing the patio there if possible. If you have no shade, then purchasing plants or an umbrella should be considered in your budget.
You’ll want to pick a spot that is well-drained. Setting the patio low or in an area that is prone to pooling of water is not ideal. Make sure the final location has good drainage to prevent shifting of the stones and also constant puddles.
When considering the location, you’ll first want to hire a pro to locate any buried cables or other lines that should not be interrupted. Once you know where you are allowed to dig, try to avoid a location directly underneath trees. This will prevent damaging any trees and help to avoid any extra work of digging roots out.
Building
Now that everything is planned, and your patio location is marked off, the building process begins.
Digging, Leveling, and Slope
When digging for the patio, it’s important to make sure the ground is levelled and there is a gradual slope away from the house to allow for proper drainage. If you are considering adding any lighting or other electrical uses, the appropriate cables can be buried at this stage so they are hidden once the patio is complete.
Once the proper amount of dirt is dug out (this will depend on the size of paver you are using for your project), the ground will need to be tamped to compact the dirt. Once this is complete, a layer of fabric may be placed to prevent and stop any weeds from growing through your patio.
Foundation
Once the area is prepped with the proper slope and is levelled throughout, the foundation will be laid. First, there will be a thick layer of gravel poured. The gravel will provide a strong base for your patio to sit on. Next, a layer of sand will be poured as a bed for the pavers to sit on.
Installing Pavers
Once the foundation is set, the patio is ready for the pavers to be laid. Depending on the design and material that you choose, the installation process may vary slightly.
Starting at a designated spot and working from side to side and using a string for alignment and levelling the stones or pavers as you move along, the pavers are individually placed. Finally, sand is poured over the top and brushed into the spaces between each paver. Once all the sand is compact, excess sand is removed with a leaf blower. Then the sand is lightly watered and set to cure 24 hours.
Final Touches
Finally, your patio is built! Final touches can include adding any furniture, a barbeque, planters, a fire pit, and or anything else that you included in your design. Need some inspiration to spruce up your new patio? Check out our 5 favourite ways to update your patio for summer.
Patios can increase the value of your home and extend your living area. They are a great place to entertain or relax, are low maintenance, and are relatively easy to install. Now that you know everything that goes into building a patio, start planning yours. Use HomeStars to connect with a pro for some advice and a quote today.
