A patio can add functionality and beauty to your yard. It can be built in a wide variety of materials and designs. The right contractor can ensure your patio is durable and fits your needs. Contact Patio Construction Richmond VA for professional help.
Builders will use stakes and string to mark the shape and size of your patio. They will then dig, tamp and level the patio base.
A patio should be positioned to provide the most usable space. Ideally it will be far enough away from the house to avoid a loss of sunlight or damage from water runoff. It is also important that the patio be placed far enough away from large trees so it will not be affected by their roots or storms. A patio should be situated so that it provides a good view of the landscape. The best views are created by placing the patio in a position that allows it to see the sun rise or set over other buildings and landscaping on the property.
Once the site is chosen it will be important to design the patio layout. Patios should be designed to accommodate the furniture you will use in them. This will ensure that the space is not overcrowded or cramped. The size of the patio should be adequate for seating and entertaining, allowing for extra room around tables and behind or between chairs.
A variety of different styles of patios can be created using a wide range of materials. Some are simply paved in hardscape material such as pavers or concrete slabs. Others may incorporate softscape materials such as grass or plants. This is the best way to create a truly comfortable outdoor living space.
Adding a water feature to a patio will bring interest and help create a sense of relaxation. The addition of a fire pit will also add warmth and an evening gathering place. Innovative features like these can be a strong selling point for potential clients.
In the past the layout of a patio was often determined by the furniture and then the space was constructed to fit it. Now with a much wider selection of furniture available it is important to plan the space and then select the furniture that will work best with the layout.
Patios can be designed with many different types of furniture to suit any lifestyle or family. It is important to remember not to duplicate the same types of furniture directly across from each other. This can cause the space to feel visually crowded. With Cedreo you can select from thousands of customizable furniture pieces in our object library to help you find the perfect fit for your patio layout.
Materials
The type of patio materials used to construct a backyard patio will set the tone for your entire outdoor space. A good choice will work within your budget, fit your aesthetic and offer the durability and ease of maintenance you desire for a long-lasting, functional patio.
Brick and paver patios are popular among homeowners seeking a traditional and timeless look for their patio. Their textured surface and varying colors can blend with various architectural styles. Brick is also a resilient material that stands up to harsh weather conditions like freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall without cracking or deteriorating.
Concrete is another enduring patio material. Its solid, structural build can support furniture, grills and other patio accessories while providing a sturdy foundation for your outdoor living area. Concrete patios can be stained or stamped to mimic the appearance of real pavers, brick and tile at a fraction of their cost. However, because it is a porous material, concrete is susceptible to staining and may require regular cleaning and sealing to maintain a fresh, clean appearance. Concrete is also a less forgiving material underfoot, and can be hard on joints and bones when accidental falls occur.
Natural stone is a premium patio material that offers both beauty and durability. Its wide variety of color options can complement a number of architectural styles, while its durability helps it stand up to harsh climates and heavy traffic. The disadvantage of a natural stone patio is its price, which can be on the high side for some homeowners.
Loose materials such as gravel, pea stone and flagstone are gaining popularity in drought-prone regions as a replacement for thirsty lawns. They are easy to work with and can create a visually interesting patio that is comfortable underfoot. However, these materials are not recommended for cold-climate regions because they may freeze and thaw during the winter, causing them to shift or crack. Regular sweeping and reapplication of stone sealers can help extend their lifespan.
Installation
A patio turns an ordinary yard into an outdoor living space that’s great for entertaining and relaxing. A patio can also increase the value of your home. It’s a good idea to hire an experienced contractor who can work within your budget and meet your timeline.
A good contractor can help you determine the best type of materials and design for your patio. They should be able to explain the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed decision. They will also be able to recommend different construction methods that suit your needs and the environment.
Once you’ve decided on a layout for your patio, it’s time to start building it. First, you’ll need to dig out the area. Depending on the height of your pavers, you’ll need to dig about 3-5 inches. Then you’ll need to rake the dirt and use a tamper tool to compact it down so that the pavers will sit flush with the ground. It’s a good idea to use a garden hose to lay out the general area for your patio and to get a sense of how large it will be. Next, you’ll need to hammer in garden stakes and mark the perimeter with marking paint. You’ll want to keep the area at least 8 inches from your house and have a mason’s line that slopes away from the home with a drop-off of 1 inch every 8 feet.
If you’re using a crushed rock base, lightly wet it down with a garden hose. Then spread a 1-inch layer of leveling sand over it. After that, you’ll need to tamp the sand down with a rented plate compactor or hand tamper.
If you’re using a concrete patio, it’s important to follow the steps that your contractor gives you exactly. This helps ensure the quality and longevity of your patio.
Maintenance
Patios are often a great addition to a home because they allow you to change the air in the house without having to open the windows. They also provide an area where you can relax and entertain. Patios, however, do require maintenance to keep them looking good and functioning properly. They stain easily, are prone to cracking, and need to be sealed regularly. A well-maintained patio can add a lot to the overall value of your property.
Patio contractors can create a design that fits your space and style preferences. They can also help you choose materials and finishes for the patio. Some of the most common materials for patios include pavers, flagstones, concrete, and wood. The contractor will prepare the ground, build a frame, and lay the chosen materials in the desired pattern. The completed patio will then be leveled and tamped down. A board placed across the patio reaching to all edges is sometimes used to help determine that the patio is even. Expansion joints are then set into the base of the patio. These are 1/2-inch strips of asphalt-impregnated fiber that are placed every 15 feet or so to prevent buckling when the temperature changes. Wet concrete is then poured into the form and smoothed out using metal or wooden skimming tools and hand held trowels.
Once the patio is in place, you will need to sweep it regularly to clear away dirt and debris with soil remains. A light wash with a commercial cleaning solution is also recommended to keep the surface looking its best. If you have pavers, it is a good idea to avoid chlorine bleach cleaners because they can cause them to lighten over time. For flagstone and other similar materials, a mild commercial cleaner should be used.
If you notice that the patio is not performing as it should, there may be a problem with the drainage system. This is a problem that needs to be addressed immediately as standing water can lead to mold and mildew growth and can also damage the pavers. If the drainage system has been clogged, you should clean it on a regular basis.