Terri Ramsey Beavers If you’re planning to build an outdoor patio, there are a few things you’ll need before you get started. This blog post will outline the five most important things you need to have before starting construction. So, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or you’re hiring a professional contractor, make sure you have these items on hand!
1) A Detailed Plan:
The first thing you’ll need before building your patio is a detailed plan. This will help ensure that the construction process goes smoothly and that you end up with a finished product that you’re happy with. Make sure to take into account the size and shape of your outdoor space, as well as any features or amenities that you want to include.
If you’re hiring a professional contractor, they should be able to help you develop a detailed plan for your patio. If you’re doing it yourself, there are plenty of resources available online or at your local library to help you get started.
2) The Right Materials:
Once you have a plan in place, the next step is to gather the materials you’ll need for construction. This will vary depending on the type of patio you’re trying to build. For example, brick or stone pavers might be a good option if you’re hoping to create an intimate seating area. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more low-maintenance, concrete or asphalt might be a better choice.
In addition to choosing the right materials, you’ll also need to ensure that you have enough of them. Be sure to take into account any waste that might occur during construction and add an extra few percentage points to your material estimate just to be safe.
You can usually purchase patio materials from your local store. However, for larger projects, you might need to order materials from a specialty supplier.
3) The Right Tools:
In order to build a patio, you’re going to need the right tools which can be different according to your preferred patio styles. This includes things like shovels, wheelbarrows, and tamper bars. If you don’t have these items on hand, most hardware stores will rent them out by the day or week.
You’ll also need some power tools to help with the construction process. Things like drills, saws, and sanders will make your life a lot easier. If you don’t have access to these tools yourself, you can stop at your local hardware store.
Don’t forget about safety! Be sure to wear proper protective gear when using any power tools.
4) A-Level Surface:
Before you can start building, you need to make sure that you have a level surface to work with. If your patio is going to be built on grass, you’ll need to remove the sod and level out the ground beneath it. This might require some heavy-duty equipment, so you might need to hire a professional if you don’t have access to it yourself.
If your patio is built on an existing concrete slab, you’ll still need to ensure its level. You can use a laser level or a long carpenter’s level to check for any uneven spots. Once you’ve found them, use a power drill to make any necessary adjustments.
Keep in mind that a level surface is important for your patio’s look and function. If it’s not level, you might end up with water pooling in certain areas or furniture that rocks back and forth. Neither of these things is very fun to deal with!
5) A Good Drainage System:
The last thing you need to think about before building your patio is a good drainage system. This is especially important if you live in an area with a lot of rainfall. A good drainage system will help ensure that water doesn’t pool on your patio or cause any damage to the materials.
There are a few different ways that you can achieve this. One option is to install drains around the perimeter of your patio. Another option is to create a sloped surface that will allow water to run off into another area. Whichever method you choose, make sure that you plan ahead and take the necessary steps to protect your investment!
Building a patio can be a fun and rewarding experience. But before you get started, there are a few things you need to consider. With a bit of planning and suitable materials, you can build the perfect patio for your home!