Patio Design Tips and Materials

Should you be lacking inspiration when it comes to planning your home improvement project, there is no reason to put so much pressure on yourself because you are definitely not alone in the boat! That is why, nowadays, there are several different platforms on the internet that are dedicated to providing different inspirational ideas for any given project.

And that is what we have done today: help you with your patio design, so you can make the most of it this summer!

Planning a Patio Design: A few important things

Source: Canva

As soon as the weather allows it, any excuse is good enough to spend time outside. Whether it is for an evening or an afternoon, the deck quickly converts into a dining room or a relaxation area. And in some cases, it can be used to access the pool or jacuzzi.

We all have different needs and wants, and these should be taken into account when planning a patio layout. However, there are some universal tips and tricks, which is why the help of a certified contractor can be beneficial. 

Premium Seating Areas 

Suffice it to say that a patio lacking comfortable seating is not reaching its full potential. Before you start designing your patio, it is preferable to assess your needs and the preferred purpose of your seating area. Counter or dining table? Stools or benches? Those are just some questions you should contemplate. 

Lighting that Sets the Tone 

Whether you are eating, lounging, or enjoying cool summer evenings with friends, you will need lighting that is more than just a basic patio fixture. Lighting is important; it will set the tone for whatever vibe are creating. So, why not try putting up Christmas lights or large hanging bulbs? However, make sure they are waterproof. 

Textures, Accessories, and Greenery

During the final stages, incorporating accessories will really personalize the final look of your patio. The importance of mixing and matching textures is that it will add more dimension and overall visual appeal to the decor. You can do so by combining different furniture fabrics, adding quirky throw pillows or adding different hanging or potted plants. 

Overall Patio Layout

Source: Canva

The patio can function as a simple pathway to the backyard, or it can become an area of its own. You can build a stairway around the patio, without putting up any railings. However, this option is not entirely safe, especially if you have children.

Otherwise, you can create separate zones by installing partitions instead of railings. In this regard, check with the municipality and with the mortgage company (if it is a new house or a major renovation project) to understand the regulations and guidelines in effect.

Patio Furniture

Not a fan of Adirondack chairs or PVC outdoor furniture? By shopping around a little, you are sure to find something that caters to your style. Over the last few years, patio furniture has evolved into a category in itself.

Add your own personal touch to your patio and backyard. Some essential guidelines to follow: style, durability, and water resistance. Look for outdoor furniture that is stylish yet timeless.

Plants and Garden Patch

Is your backyard on the smaller side? Or do you have a knack for plants, and want to have them everywhere? Regardless of the reason, your patio is one of the best places to have plants. Plant a small herb garden, or flower patch, or relocate interior plants so they can thrive in natural sunlight.

The only thing to watch out for is the recommended amount of sun the plants actually require.

How to Choose the Right Patio Material

Source: Canva

One of the preferred materials used when building a deck is treated wood. It is both beautiful and inexpensive, although it requires a lot of maintenance to keep its original appearance. You will need to repaint it every 3 years. Some other types of wood are torrefied, composite, cedar, and ipe. 

Are you looking for easily-maintained wood? Consider fibreglass or PVC membrane. Both types of materials are waterproof and durable. However, during the winter, this type of material will tend to get slick, therefore adding sand or salt to the surface is a must. Should you plan on using your patio during the winter season (e.g. for door access), then this is something you really need to bear in mind. 

Consider the Seasons

Bear in mind that, in Quebec, it is important to choose materials that are weather-resistant, especially for the winter months. Also, when choosing your patio furniture, remember that it will most likely need to be stored during the winter period, therefore storage is an important factor. 

Make sure you have enough space to store everything. If feasible, consider getting a small shed or storage area where you can put everything as soon as the weather warrants it.

We have already posted numerous articles about building and designing a patio. For more information, check out the following:

• Which Building Materials Should Be Used for a Deck?

• Wood Patios: Models and Prices

• Deck Building Materials and Construction

To paint or stain your deck?

RenoQuotes tagged along with contractor Felix Deblois-Beaucage’s team as they worked on a patio painting project. Here are the 5 steps of the transformation process:

• Cleaning surfaces

• Sanding/sandblasting

• Sealing

• Painting

• Drying

To learn more, check out our article How to Paint a Deck: Step-by-Step Instructions.