Things to Know

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW BIG OF AN AREA IS BIG ENOUGH?
Whether you are wanting a pergola or a fully shingled covered patio, about 400 square feet is average. If you go much smaller than that, you could feel cramped. You want to have enough room for your grill, sitting area, plenty of space for friends and family, to move around freely without tripping over one another.

Of course, this all depends on how much space you have available. The point is to make the most of your area when you start to plan your outdoor oasis.

WHAT ARE THINGS THAT WOULD AFFECT YOUR BUDGET?

Let's not beat around the bush, this is where things can get a little expensive. When you walk out onto your back patio, you want to be in your personal oasis. Something you can be proud of and want to show everyone! Having everyone be envious when you are hosting the get-togethers, parties, holiday events, and especially family functions!

Let's start with the simple things. As you read through this, a project list is provided below so you can print this form if needed as a guide.

Concrete: Do you have concrete already or do you want your old concrete demolished and new poured? Or simply just extend your existing concrete. Having an existing flat and level concrete patio surface will lower your cost. Unless you want something more than just a brushed concrete surface. Upgraded surfaces include - stamped or decorative (multiple stamp options available) stained concrete, stone pavers, or aggregate.

Decking: If you choose to have a deck instead of concrete, there are many different options for design and materials. The most cost-effective option for a deck is using TREX. There are several color options and there is no need to stain or maintain! It also comes with a 25-year limited warranty! Another common deck material is pressure treated lumber. You can get it pre-stained prior to installing but you will need to maintain the material as the seasons pass.

Ok, so we are past the flooring (concrete or wood), now let's talk about the structure.

Structure: Wood and stain - Are you looking for a pergola, covered patio or an open gable style? Will the structure be free standing or attached to the home? Would you like it painted to match your home, stained or all natural? No matter what style you pick, all options can either be attached to your home (attached to the existing roofline) or not attached at all, freestanding. Freestanding structures tend to be more expensive than ones that are attached. This is simply due to more material used, more posts or columns, and structure safety.

Posts and columns: For your patio structure, you have options for the posts. Do you want a simple post, wrapped posts, or even columns? Columns can be wrapped in additional wood, brick, or stone. Most common style of columns used is a quarter high wrap with some sort of masonry material. What will drive the costs up would be the wrapped columns. They are very custom to your home and come out beautiful! It does take a professional mason to put together the stone or brick, one by one.

Electrical: Depending on the size of your structure, you may want to have some fans and or lighting installed. This is a very popular option, especially because we live in North Texas! Staying cool in Texas summer heat can be challenging but having fans and lights allows you to be outdoors longer while you are hosting!