Are you planning to install a patio at home? Read on to study the factors you need to consider when designing a patio. Think about your last vacation to a pleasant, sunny site and how much you enjoyed the outdoors. That’s the feeling you want to achieve and plan for when designing your new patio. While you may have your own unique view of what an ideal patio looks like, the best patios include a space for relaxation, a spot for cooking superb meals, separate dining areas, an area for quiet conversation under the stars, and lots of cushy seating. Whatever your decorative style demands, Metamorphosis Construction is here to design the exact patio you have in mind. Here are a few aspects to consider when designing a patio: The Size of Your Patio Determining the right size for your patio depends on the number of people who’ll be using your patio on a regular basis, and the types of furniture you want to use such as a dining table, chairs and couch, a fire pit, and outdoor kitchen. Identifying the functions of your patio will help you visualize the spaces and equipment you need and how big your patio needs to be to host them. Positioning You should position your patio where you and other members of your family like to sit. It’s going to be a place where you’re most comfortable such as the spot that’s away from the house where you get ample natural light, a pleasant breeze, and an impressive view. When positioning your patio, consider how you can connect it to the outdoors. Positioning your patio away from the house also enables you to soften the space between the home and the patio containing a garden. Construction Material We recommend concrete patios for a number of reasons. First of all, they’re comparatively cheaper than stone or brick patios. Plus, they’re flexible enough to seamlessly fit many home styles. If your region has a sunny climate, concrete will reflect light and cause glare. Concrete also makes a perfect choice if you like to walk barefoot in outdoor environments. Natural stone, on the other hand, features a rough texture and large joints, which don’t make them feet-friendly. The only problem with concrete is that it cracks easily from freeze-thaw cycles of the northern climates. The Topography of Your Yard When designing your patio, the elevations and grades of the yard are critical aspects to consider. Patios are typically flat and should pitch between 1% and 2%, which means 1-2 inches of drop every eight feet. Yards aren’t normally this flat. A common requirement from local codes is to pitch at least 2% away from the house, which means two inches every eight feet. Hence, the slope of your yard can present both an opportunity and a challenge. We recommend adding a seating wall or retaining wall to your patio. Keep in mind the natural drainage of your yard when designing your patio. Call Your Local Deck Builder Now At Metamorphosis Construction, we understand all the factors associated with patio design discussed above. We’ll help you plan your patio size and positioning, and recommend the right construction material for your specific case. Also, you won’t have to worry about compliance issues. We’ll have you covered on the legal part. To consult experienced custom patio designers, contact us today!