Choosing Your Patio’s Size and Shape
When it comes to patios, there are a number of choices to make. The following information walks you through the planning process to ensure the best fit for you!
The function of the patio
Will this be a space where you can relax alone or maybe with a few people?
Would you like to sit down to dinner on the patio after cooking on the grill?
Are you excited to host larger gatherings of family and friends?
It’s possible that you may want your patio to serve multiple functions. Distinct areas can be defined to serve each function. For example, the main portion of the patio might be large enough to hold a table and chairs for dining and a separate fire pit area can hold casual conversation after dinner.
Before committing to a size, it’s a great idea to check measurements on the furniture you’ll be using. Give yourself and your guests plenty of room to move through the space without feeling cramped.
How Shape and Size Can Affect the Price
For the most bang for your buck, right angles are an economical choice. With squares and rectangles a smaller patio can have more useable space over a rounded patio. There is less material waste and typically less labor cost as well.
When planning for a curvy or rounded patio space, account for more wasted pavers for unique cuts. The labor costs increase as well. Saw blades are straight and large so as to cut all the way through the pavers, so multiple passes with a saw need to be made. There may even be the need to grind some pavers to achieve a smoother look.
Location of the patio in relation to fixed structures can also affect pricing. If a patio is situated between the back of a house and a retaining wall for example, measurements need to be more exact to fit the space. Sometimes this can be offset by adding a border of pavers between the main ‘floor’ and the vertical structure. Working around deck posts will also add more time for cuts.
Other ways paver selection can affect price include the use of inlays or mixing different paver styles and thicknesses. In the same way patio installation between fixed structures can add labor costs and more material waste, inlays will increase the price as well. Also let’s say the main part of the patio has thicker pavers than the border, there will be more time involved to prepare the bedding of the patio to accept those different heights.