Are you dreaming of a patio renovation? Learn everything you need to know to succeed in your next outdoor home renovation project.
The Ins and Outs of Patio Renovation
Sprucing up your patio can allow you and your guests to enjoy the intimacy of a cozy backyard space – no matter the season!
This guide will walk you through what to consider as you decide which design choices are right for you and your family.
Let’s dive in!
Patio Renovation Considerations
01. Purpose of Patio Renovation
It sounds like an obvious place to start, but you can’t kick off your patio renovation project until you know what you want to use your space for.
For example, are you looking to entertain many guests frequently or just have a few close family members over to cook out now and then? Do you want a smaller space filled with greenery and twinkly lights, or do you need an open expanse to kick a ball around with your kids?
Deciding what you plan to do in and around your patio space is the first step toward finalizing your plans, as the ideal space could look vastly different depending on your vision for the future of your patio.
02. Patio Makeover Budget
Knowing how much you have to spend on your project is essential before you start demoing or ordering materials.
Not everyone is going to be able to (or want to) spend thousands of dollars on patio upgrades. So, considering your personal budget allows you to source the materials and expertise you need to get the project done right – and within budget.
Your upgrades could include anything from new outdoor cushions to a whole new brick patio and landscaping throughout your yard. You can also spruce up plant selections to include more fragrant and visually appealing varieties. By considering your budget, you can prioritize changes that will have the most significant impact within your spending limits.
Whatever you choose to start with, this project is wholly yours, and you get to make it anything you want it to be.
03. Patio Design Choice
Once you have your budget firmed up, look around your space and start making a list of the things you want to incorporate.
Here are a few ideas to get your wheels turning:
- A seating area large enough for your family and friends
- A firepit table
- A screened-in porch or pergola
- Twinkly lights or lights along the edge of your patio
- Paver stones or brick
- An outdoor kitchen area
- An outdoor pizza oven
- Durable outdoor furniture that’s easy to clean
- Heaters for the winter or fans for the hot, muggy months
- Greenery or insect-repellent plants
These are just a few design decisions you’ll need to make before reconciling them with your budget.
We also recommend getting inspired by looking at and saving pictures of patios you love online or in magazines! You never know when that perfect design idea will find you.
04. Patio Materials
With your purpose, budget, and design in mind, you can finally select the materials you want to use for your patio renovation. If you currently have a concrete patio and you’ve been dreaming of stone pavers. In that case, the renovation process will likely be more labor-intensive and costly than other options.
In addition to the cost of materials, you’ll also want to consider how you use your patio. If you’re looking for a sustainable design that incorporates high-quality recycled materials, natural elements like teak wood could be a great addition to your space.
When selecting your materials, you should also consider how much time you want to spend preserving your space. For example, some materials can simply be pressure washed or wiped down, while others require frequent applications of polish or wax.
The decision is ultimately yours, but lower-maintenance designs can leave your patio renovation feeling more like an oasis and less like a burden.
Unforeseen Complications in Patio Renovation
Now that we’ve looked at patio renovation basics, let’s turn our attention to a few of the unforeseen complications that can arise throughout the process.
01. Weather/Your Terrain
Every climate and region is different, and sometimes your weather patterns present interesting challenges for your terrain.
For instance, you may need to consider porous stones or drainage solutions to prevent your beautiful new patio from being underwater at the first sign of a bad storm.
In addition, depending on your climate and weather patterns, you’ll also want to incorporate design choices and materials that are sturdy, like wire ropes. Their strength and durability can keep your patio in tip-top shape and eliminate the need for constant replacements.
02. The Extras
No matter how well you budget for your project, there will always be something you didn’t think about.
Whether it’s base-layer materials, such as sand or gravel, or rising costs of materials due to inflation, it’s essential to leave some wiggle room in the budget just in case.
You don’t want to be in the middle of your project and suddenly run out of money because you didn’t account for the extras.
Build the Patio of Your Dreams
Achieving your ultimate patio renovation dream doesn’t have to be complicated or pricey.
Start by identifying the purpose of your space – entertainment, personal oasis, privacy, dining space, game nights, etc. Then, finalize your budget. This will guide you as you build your design plans and decide which materials to incorporate.
Don’t forget to account for the weather in your area, your specific terrain, and any other fun must-haves, and then decide whether you can DIY the project or need the expertise of a local professional.
No matter how you choose to renovate your patio, with a bit of inspiration, proper budgeting, and suitable materials, you can create the space you’ve always wanted!
Before you go, don’t forget to read below article: