A patio can be a great addition to any home. It provides a place for the family to gather on warm, sunny days, for barbecues and glasses of lemonade. A well-designed patio fits in with both the house and the yard. Before you start building a patio, there are a few things you should consider.
There are a lot of different materials that can be used to make a patio. Brick is a popular option, as it allows for interesting designs to be created. Some people choose to use flagstone. Both brick and flagstone are ideal for areas that get a lot of rain, as they allow water to run between the bricks or stones. Paved concrete patios are easy to make, and last a long time, but it is more difficult to make a creative design when using concrete. Concrete also takes a while to dry, which might be a problem in rainy weather or if you have pets or children that may try to wander through it.
Before building a patio, consider what design elements you would like to work into it. A patio does not need to be just one solid area. It can have round holes in it, for planting. It may also have more than one main area, connected by paths. Consider the landscaping around the patio, and how you might be able to work everything in together. Planting shrubs and flowers around the outside of the patio can add definition, while ground covers can add a more subtle appearance.
Be sure that you have all of the supplies you need before you begin building a patio. This will prevent you from having to run back to the hardware store for more supplies halfway through the project. Use posts or other marking materials to plot out your design before you begin, so you can make sure it will look the way you want it to.
After your patio is built, it is time to consider outdoor furniture. Tables and chairs are popular choices. Picnic tables and benches are also popular. Shade, whether from an awning or a table umbrella, can make hot summer days more bearable. If you will be using your patio at night, it is also important to consider lighting. Some people chose to set up an outdoor sound system around their patios, especially if they do a lot of entertaining.
When building a patio, it is important to consider what you will be using it for. Many patios have a grill set up on them, for summer time barbecuing. Some even have a mini-bar or a hammock. Patios can even surround part of a pool, providing a great place to relax when not enjoying the water. Whatever you use your patio for, it is sure to be a wonderful addition to your home.
