The Three Most Important Things to Consider When Adding a Patio

Thinking of hiring a professional to install that patio that you’ve been wanting? Here are 3 of the most important things to consider before beginning the process.

1. What do you plan on utilizing the patio for? Patios can serve different purposes and thinking about your needs ahead of time will help you (and your contractor) decide what’s going to work best for your lifestyle. For example, do you plan on entertaining large groups or small? Does your family enjoy grilling out or sitting around a campfire toasting marshmallows? Do you like sun or shady areas to relax in? Would you like a bar or buffet counter incorporated into your plan? What types of plants or colors are you looking for?

2. What types of paving materials are you looking to use? Many times the existing house materials will determine what materials you select for your pavement. A professional contractor will try to minimize the amount of different materials that are utilized on a project. Too many different materials tend to get confusing to the eye and might not “flow” as well as you had hoped. Some options are plain concrete, exposed aggregate, brick, bluestone and there are a number of man made products on the market now to choose from. Your contractor should be able to show you photos and actual samples of the materials that will best compliment your home.

3. What is the price? The lowest price is not always going to give you the best finished product that is going to last for decades. Improper materials and shoddy installations will end up costing you a lot more in the long run. Professional contractors will spend the most time preparing the base for whatever material you select for your patio. If the area is not excavated and the base is not compacted properly, your dreams of a beautiful patio can become nightmares. Be careful who you select and check out some of their references before making your investment and by all means, remember that you get what you pay for.

Countryside Industries, Inc. Is a family company started by Bob Adelizzi Sr. in 1975. Sons Bob and Bill are active in the business and enjoy working with homeowners helping them to create beautiful outdoor living environments.