Patio Design 101: 3 Things to Consider

Building a patio on your property will create a space in which you can entertain friends and family, relax in the sunshine or eat your dinner alfresco. Below is a guide to 3 things you should consider when you are planning your new patio.

Location

You should make careful note of how the sunlight moves across your garden so you can identify sun traps which are out of the wind and not covered by shadow. If you are concerned about the heat of the summer sun, you should consider installing a roof or sunshade on your patio.

Size

The size of your patio will largely be dictated by the use you wish to put it to and the space you have available in your garden. If you plan to use it for intimate meals with your partner, you can construct a small patio which can accommodate a small table and two chairs. However, if you would like to use your patio for a BBQ party, you should ensure there is enough room between the BBQ grill and the seating area to prevent accidental burns.

Materials

When choosing a material for the surface of your patio, you should let the existing materials used in your home and garden guide your choice. Below is a guide to 3 popular materials.

Concrete: Concrete is a cost effective option. If you do not like the idea of smooth, plain concrete surfaces, consider using coloured or stamped concrete to jazz up your patio. However, you should be aware that you will need to apply a protective coating. If you do not, the concrete may begin to crack.

Stone: Stone is a hardwearing and robust material which creates a natural look to your patio. However, it is much more expensive than other types of material. This is because the stone must be quarried and transported which adds to the cost. Popular types of stone include slate, limestone and bluestone.

Brick: Brick is a material which is easy to match with the rest of your property. However, brick is a porous material which will retain moisture. If you live in an area which is subject to freezing temperatures during winter, you should think twice before opting for a brick patio.

If you would like further information and advice about how best to plan your patio, you should contact a patio contractor. They will be able to visit your property and view the space before advising you on the best location, size and materials. Once you are happy with the design, they will be able to carry out the necessary work to install the patio.