Thinking of adding something to your garden to make it feel more special? Well, a patio could be the only thing you’re missing! Patios provide you with a lovely space to sit outside and enjoy the world outside, and nowadays, they can be customised to suit your every style and taste. Super stylish and functional.
Who wouldn’t want a patio? But before you start construction, there are a few things we recommend you consider first. Keep reading to find out some of the most pivotal factors you need to consider when installing your patio.
Where is it going to be?
Where is the most obvious place to put a patio? Most people will build a patio so that it is adjoining to the house. It’s perfect for those who want to just be able to step outside the house and right onto a place where they can relax outdoors. This positioning can also be designed in a way that makes it an extension of your home’s interior design to make the transition almost seamless.
However, this isn’t your only option, and there are compelling reasons to build it elsewhere on the property. You need to look at where the sun is hitting your property because if you don’t plan on adding a roof to your patio and the sun beats down right outside the house, it wouldn’t be the ideal place.
Tips: Think about the area in your yard where you can see yourself spending most of your time – that would be the prime location for your future patio.
It shouldn’t be a place where you’d feel like you’d melt in the sun, but it also shouldn’t be a place that never sees the light of day. Be very mindful of where you’re going to put your patio; you don’t want to spend all that money and never use it.
Accessibility is everything
When the patio is new and shiny, you’ll probably take any excuse to use it, regardless of how accessible it is. However, once the novelty has worn off, you’ll find if your patio is not built in a way that is easily accessible, you’ll find yourself using it less and less.
Tips: So, if you want people to enjoy the patio and get your money’s worth, make sure you do everything in your power to make it accessible.
For example, if you intend to eat outside as much as possible, then build the patio somewhere close to the kitchen area so it’s a convenient area to eat. Who could resist sharing a meal or hosting outside while watching the sunset.
Size really does matter
This is arguably the most crucial factor to consider when building a patio – when you’re installing a patio, you need to think about how big it needs to be. If you are the type of person who hosts regular barbeques or dinner parties, then it’s worth having a patio that is big enough to accommodate everyone and can fit all the outdoor furniture. However, if you only have a few deckchairs and a small table, it’s better to have a smaller patio because a bigger one would look out of place and, quite frankly, uninviting.
What shape is it going to be
Yes, you can go for the typical rectangular patio but don’t feel obliged to do so when building a patio. You can have your patio designed with soft, round edges or whatever shape you choose. You don’t have to feel intimidated by the thought of having to cut slabs because your patio can be built up using irregular edges that can be filled. However, if you want a patio and garden that is easier to maintain, there is nothing wrong with going for the more traditional rectangular patio.
What materials will you use
For a patio that will last and keep its original appeal, you need to be wise about what materials you’ll use to build it. Don’t just stick to the materials you see in the picture you draw inspiration from but really think about what is going to suit your home’s aesthetic and the practicality of the materials. Always look at samples before choosing your final materials to help you make the best choice. Check out Apollo Patios for all things patios to help you find the best materials – they might even inspire you.
Final Thoughts
A patio should be an outdoor space that tempts you to spend as much of your time there as possible, adds to the appeal of your home and doesn’t require more maintenance than it’s worse. So, be wise and take your time and be very intentional when designing your patio, so it can be a prime spot that you can enjoy everyday.