Patio Construction
Patio construction builds a ground-level outdoor surface from concrete, pavers, stone, or brick over a prepared base. Drainage and a stable base determine longevity, and it is priced per square foot.
How patio construction is done
- Lay out the patio and excavate the area
- Grade for drainage away from the house
- Install and compact a gravel and sand base
- Lay pavers, stone, or pour and finish concrete
- Set edge restraints and fill joints
- Seal or cure and clean up
What homeowners should know
- Insist on proper base prep since a weak base causes settling
- Confirm the patio slopes away from the house for drainage
- Compare pavers, stone, and concrete on cost and repairability
- Ask about edge restraints to keep pavers from spreading
- Consider sealing to resist stains and weeds
Permits, timelines & things to consider
- Small patios may not need a permit, but check local rules
- Base preparation and compaction are the key to preventing settling
- Material choice drives cost per square foot, with stone above concrete
- Drainage and grading protect both the patio and the foundation
- Freeze-thaw climates favor pavers that flex without cracking
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit for a patio?
Ground-level patios often do not require a permit, but rules vary by locality and by whether structures or drainage changes are involved.
Pavers or poured concrete for a patio?
Pavers flex with freeze-thaw and are easy to repair, while poured concrete is lower cost but can crack; both depend on a well-compacted base and are priced per square foot.
Why does base preparation matter?
A properly excavated, compacted gravel and sand base prevents settling, heaving, and an uneven surface over time.