How to Build a Patio

When searching on how to build a patio yourself, a low maintenance patio is your best bet. If your patio needs too much care you will not be able to enjoy it as well as a patio that takes little or no time to care for it. Your first decision will need to be where you want it located and what size will you need. Usually patios are set right outside the back door but you can also build a patio on the side of your house or in the front of the home. When deciding on the size of your patio, remember you won't feel comfortable if everyone is cramped into a small place, so take into consideration how many people will usually occupy the patio and make sure their is plenty of room for them to stretch out.

How to build a patio books often suggest choosing an area that is already level, saving time and cost. When building a patio the ground will not need to be perfectly level, but the closer to level you can get, the better. Choose your type of patio flooring from brick, stone, tile or concrete. Concrete is also sold in interlocking blocks called pavers. Once you've purchased your flooring, you can now start digging. A concrete patio will need to be poured directly on gravel and should be about 4 inches deep. If using tiles or pavers, you can set these in concrete or place them in sand. When learning how to build a patio, you will discover that sand is by far the easiest way to lay down a new patio. Sand will also be easier to level out, so any small bumps in the ground will not be a problem. You can then use dry mortar mix or more sand to fill the spaces between your patio bricks or stones. If you use mortar mix, just pour it in, sweep off the excess, then turn on your hose to set set it in place.

Many people enjoy their patio but also desire shade. Try planting some trees beside the patio, add patio furniture with umbrellas with patio umbrella stands for your shade. An enclosed patio room or sunroom will let you enjoy your patio all year long. Learning how to build a patio can be easy, but if you are leaning more towards an enclosed patio, you may need to seek a professional. Be sure to follow the city guidelines will need to be followed for enclosed structures.