If you want to make the most out of your property often complete this with a patio construction project. After all, this complements the whole space nicely and rounds everything up with its cozy yet welcoming atmosphere.
What’s great about having a patio is that it can be used in a variety of ways, making it a versatile addition to your backyard or garden. The average cost of building a patio is generally around $3,800. However, it ranges anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, but these prices can go up depending on a number of factors.
If you’re interested in building a new patio, get to know what goes into these patio-building costs so that you can be aware before even starting construction. Read on to know more.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Building a Patio
As mentioned, the average cost of building a patio is $3,800. However, it can go well above $5,500 as well. The associated costs are dependent on a number of factors, including the size of the patio, the materials used to make it, and even labor and accessories to name a few. Get to know these below.
Size and Shape of the Patio
One of the biggest determining factors when it comes to the price of building a patio is how large it’s going to be. The general rule of thumb when it comes to these spaces is that the larger it is, the more it will cost. Basic patios can start from $5 per square foot, while high-end ones can go up to $50 per square foot.
Patio sizes differ and are dictated not only by how much space you have or intend to use, and by extension, by what you intend to use it for.
For example, if you want a bistro patio, a 49-square feet patio will fetch you anywhere from $250 to $2,500. A bistro patio gives you ample eating space that has just enough room for tables, chairs, and room to move around. On the other hand, larger patio sizes that have living and dining room areas can go for $2,500 to $13,000 for 18 x 12 square feet of space.
Apart from the size of the patio, it’s also worth noting that the layout is also something you should account for. Irregularly shaped patios, or those outside of the usual square or rectangle shapes, could also cost higher since this would require more elaborate planning and layouts.
2. Type of Materials Used for Construction
Besides the patio size, the materials used in building a patio are perhaps the next largest determining factor that you should consider. There are various kinds of materials available on the market and in the end, the kind of materials you use will have a direct impact on the cost of your patio project. This ranges from $2 to $35 per square foot.
Some of the most popular patio materials include gravel, bricks, pavers, stone, concrete, and even sand, slate, and tile, to name some.
Of these aforementioned materials, the cheapest option is gravel and that’s because it is the easiest to install. Not to mention, gravel is versatile and has a great drainage system. Bricks, on the other hand, are durable and quite stylish, but these require additional labor.
If you’re looking at materials to make your patio, you might want to find something closer to home rather than importing materials, especially as importing materials can add to the costs of buying these rather than just buying locally. Local stores can give you a better deal since you’re buying within the area.
In the end, the material you choose comes down not only to cost, but also to your preferences and aesthetics.
3. Labor and Installation
Labor, installation, and equipment costs are also significant, which can add to the overall cost of building your dream patio. Labor and installation costs have an average cost of around $10 per square foot or around $40 to $80 per hour. This still depends on the complexity of the project, the site preparation needed, as well as the type of materials that are going to be put in.
You might save a few bucks by going on the DIY route, but this comes with risks as well. If you’re not well versed in installing and building a patio, this can be quite a challenging project to take on since not only do you not have the equipment you need, but this can also cost you more money in the long run if you make mistakes.
Some of the preparations that fall under labor and installation measures include demolition and disposal of old patios, if any, leveling the ground, making drainage modifications, building slopes for a raised or elevated patio, and shaping the patio to the desired shape, among others.
4. Patio Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your patio is a must, especially when you have invested or are investing a lot of money in it. Routine maintenance can help preserve the structural integrity and appearance of the patio and even extend its life.
Some maintenance costs associated with your patio include cleaning and resealing it, as well as power washing and resurfacing it. This can cost anywhere from $50 to $500 on average depending on the type of cleaning and maintenance you need.
5. Added Features and Services
Apart from the aforementioned aspects, you should also take note of some of the added features and related services you might want to have on your patio. These include appliances, accessories, and even landscape-related needs.
If you want to landscape your patio and make it blend seamlessly with the rest of your home, investing in landscaping services will help you achieve this. This, however, costs $1,500 to $5,000 on average. Lighting, on the other hand, can set you back $2,000 and up depending on your desired lighting fixtures and arrangement.
Final Thoughts
Adding a patio to your property can increase its value. You can also extend your living space and make the most out of your property. By knowing the cost of building a patio and what goes into it, you can budget for this project accordingly.
