Is your patio looking outdated and run down? 

Well you’re not alone! Patios serve an extremely important role in creating a homely aesthetic outside while still offering coziness and a tranquil outdoor retreat. Not only that, but patios can significantly enhance your home’s value.

But when you build a patio, there are some costly mistakes that can set you back as a homeowner. This ambitious project can be costly especially if you’re a seasoned DIYer or planning to hire a contractor.

In this guide, we’ve listed 5 of the most common patio-building mistakes to avoid. 

Neglecting Proper Drainage

Poor drainage is a common problem that builders often overlook in any construction including building a patio. If you ignore drainage and water pools around on your patio, you risk problems that not only affect aesthetics but the structural integrity of your outdoor space.

The excess moisture from this causes the soil to expand and contract, which inadvertently puts a strain on the soil, causing it to expand and contract, which, in the long term, leads to cracks and severely compromised structural integrity issues.

To avoid this, you should consider proper grading as this is the most crucial step. This involves creating a slight slope away from your house, allowing rainwater to flow naturally. In areas with heavy rainfall or poor soil conditions, consider installing additional drainage systems.

Having a Weak Base

A strong patio starts with a solid base. Failure to adhere to this crucial step typically leads to a ton of problems down the line. 

Why? Poorly prepared bases can cause settling, cracking, and uneven surfaces, which often compromises the patio’s stability and safety.

The solution to this problem starts with removing existing vegetation. This should be followed closely by thoroughly compacting the soil. Also, consider adding layers of gravel for stability and drainage. 

Choosing the Wrong Materials

As with any construction project, choosing the right patio materials is crucial for a successful project. Durability is key as you want to choose materials that can withstand the harsh elements of your local climate, i.e., heavy rainfall, snow, and heat.

Popular options include concrete (because it’s known for its durability and versatility), pavers (offering design flexibility), natural stone (adding timeless elegance), and low-maintenance composite decking.

Failing to Plan For Future Patio Needs

The needs of your patio might change in the future. What do we mean by this?

For example, many homeowners typically envision outdoor kitchens or appliances like TVs and theaters to complement this outdoor space. Perhaps a fireplace or a hot tub? Whatever your choice, it’s best to ensure the patio has enough space to meet these needs i.e., for a grill, countertop, and seating or a tub.

If you fail to consider such needs, you’ll be significantly limiting your patio’s versatility and functionality. 

DIY Without Experience

While DIY patio projects can save you money, attempting them without experience can lead to costly mistakes and subpar results. 

While experts might argue this is how you build knowledge and experience, we suggest that if you’re unsure about any aspect of the project, consult with a professional contractor to ensure a successful outcome. This will also save you money, time, and costly disappointments.