Patios are perfect spots for daily family gatherings, backyard barbecues with all your friends, or to simply relax. If you ready to upgrade your outdoor living space with a new patio this spring, here are several important factors to consider.
How Will It Be Used?
You will want to assess your needs and determine how you will use your new patio. For example, if you plan on entertaining being the primary function of your patio it will require different details than a quiet personal oasis. How you intend to use your patio is the first question to consider since it will impact all other factors.
Location
Most patios are located in a transition zone between the home and backyard, often directly off the kitchen, allowing for easier serving and cleanup. While adding a patio to the rear of your home will likely provide more privacy, adding a patio to the front yard allows you to enjoy and interact with your neighborhood. Side yard patios are also common, but not all patios need to be located directly off the house. Secondary spaces located further from your home can take advantage of great sun exposure, shady spots, or beautiful views.
Size, Shape, and Style
The size, shape, and style of your patio will be influenced by the size of its desired location and how you plan to use it. If you plan on adding a large table for entertaining, you will want to be sure your patio is large enough to accommodate guests moving their chairs out from the table. If you plan on adding fire or water features, you will want to make sure there is enough space to move around these features comfortably and safely. Simple square and rectangular patios work well in most spaces but circle, curved edge, or wraparound patios are also eye-catching options. Material choices, design features, and decorative accents will define your patio’s overall style.
Materials and Maintenance
You have many choices for patio materials including poured-in place concrete, concrete pavers, brick, natural stone, tiles, loose materials. The materials you choose will have the biggest impact on construction costs and maintenance. While outdoor patio materials are long-lasting and durable, they may need special maintenance like stain-resistant sealers. Your contractor can help you choose the right materials for your patio and inform you of their necessary maintenance.
Choose the Best Design/Build Team—Partner with Atlanta Porch & Patio
The ideal patio blends well with your home’s style and your outdoor landscaping. At Atlanta Porch & Patio, we will listen to your needs and create a design plan (including size, layout, location, and materials) that works the best with your existing space and how you plan to use it. We will factor all details such as plumbing, septic, and electrical lines and we always adhere to city, county, municipality, and HOA building codes. From obtaining the proper permits to the final installation details, we can handle all of your patio needs. Check out our documentation, accreditations, and patio gallery, then contact us to request a FREE consultation for your patio project.