A patio is an outdoor area adjoining your house that can be used for relaxing or entertaining. Whether you have a simple paved concrete area with chairs or a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, patios offer countless benefits to home owners and can boost the value of your property. In addition to being a great entertainment space, patios are also ideal for holding barbecue parties with family and friends. The flat base that a patio offers makes it easy to install BBQ equipment and it is easier for guests to sit down, stay cool, and enjoy the party.
When planning a new patio, it is important to take into account its size and how it will fit in your landscape design. Many regions have regulations about how much of your yard can be covered with hardscape, and you may need to check for permits and setback requirements before starting the project. If you have already purchased furniture for your patio, measure the dimensions of that piece and make sure to leave enough room for guests to move comfortably around the table.
For patios that are dedicated to dining, a seating area of about 10 by 10 feet should be sufficient for four people. For more informal patios, a conversation area of 8 by 10 feet should be comfortable for two people. If you are planning to use your patio for entertaining, it is also a good idea to mark out the location of fire pits, seating areas, grilling zones and other features with lawn-safe marking paint before construction begins. This will give you a visual of the final layout and allow you to adjust your plans as needed.