Plan a patio for shade, drainage, and everyday use
Start by placing the activities, shade and walking routes you want. Then have the project team check drainage, levels, structures and approvals before deciding on surface materials.
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Patios and outdoor living
Useful questions, practical considerations and clear starting points for your project. 10 guides in this topic.
Pavers or poured concrete for a patio?
Choose between pavers and poured concrete by comparing installed systems on your site. The visible finish is only one part of the decision.
Read the guideCovered patio or pergola: compare the project scope
Start with the weather protection you need. A structure intended mainly for shade should not be assumed to deliver the same experience as a designed roofed outdoor room.
Read the guideWhat drives the cost of a covered patio?
A covered-patio budget should explain the structure and its connections, not just the area under the roof. Break the scope into parts before comparing proposals.
Read the guideScreened lanai planning without crowding the yard
Plan the lanai from the inside and the yard together. Its value depends on usable furniture space, clear access and a screen system designed for the actual site.
Read the guideAvoid moving patio water toward the house
Decide where patio water should go before deciding the finished surface height. The house threshold, roof runoff and wider site drainage need to be reviewed together.
Read the guidePlan an outdoor kitchen before selecting appliances
Choose an outdoor kitchen around a safe, serviceable layout and suitable appliances. Resolve its location and utility strategy before ordering the grill or building the enclosure.
Read the guideChoose outdoor finishes for heat and wet conditions
Choose an outdoor finish for the conditions it will face, then compare its appearance. Ask for product-specific evidence about the intended use rather than relying on terms such as outdoor or non-slip.
Read the guideOutdoor lighting and fans: questions for licensed trades
Plan outdoor lighting and fans around the activities and exposure of the space. Have a licensed electrical professional coordinate the system before fixtures are purchased.
Read the guidePhase a backyard project around future pool construction
If a pool may come later, plan the whole backyard before completing expensive permanent features. Reserve the routes and space that future work could need.
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