14 Patios to Consider When Building a Backyard: A Guide for Homeowners
Patios are becoming increasingly popular additions to properties because they provide functionality, practicality, pleasure, beauty, and value. Like other outdoor features, the type you should choose depends on your budget. Many options are available for patios, so it’s essential to consider what kind of patio will work best for your yard.
What is a patio?
Patios are exterior floors constructed of materials such as brick, concrete, stone, or even wood. With a patio, homeowners can create an outdoor living space suitable for dining, entertaining or relaxing. Patios are incredibly convenient in the colder months when people want to enjoy fresh air but do not want to go outside into the snow and freezing temperatures. Patios are also more affordable than constructed porches and sheds.
Patios can be made in many shapes and sizes, depending on the space available and desired aesthetics. Typically, patios are not much larger than 15 by 15 feet, but some homeowners choose to build them larger depending on their yard’s size and shape. Patio materials come in a wide range of prices, from luxury materials that could run into hundreds or thousands of dollars per square foot to much less expensive options.

What are the types of patios?
The following are some different patio ideas for homeowners to consider when planning out their backyard spaces:
Concrete Patio
A concrete patio can be poured directly on compacted dirt or placed over a gravel bed. The finished product is sturdy and offers homeowners a clean, modern look.
Gravel Patio
Gravel patios are often used as natural pathways through gardens and around outdoor living areas such as fire pits and barbecue grills. They can also be used to create small patio spaces. Gravel is easy to maintain but will require more expensive repair materials in cracking or severe wear and tear.
Shared Patio
Some homeowners choose to build a shared patio that can be used by all residents who live on their property, including renters, guests, family members, and pets. Shared patios are typically made out of weather-resistant materials that can handle outdoor use without damage or degradation.
Concrete Paver Patio
Concrete pavers are versatile patio materials that come in several colors, shapes, and sizes. They are installed much like tile would be with mortar between each piece. The finished product is sturdy, looks attractive, and holds up well over time.
Stone Patios
Stone patios provide homeowners with a rustic or elegant aesthetic depending on the type of stones used. Because stones are not uniform in size and shape, homeowners will need to prop up tables and chairs often.
Gravel Paver Patio
Gravel pavers come in various shapes and sizes and can be installed much like concrete pavers. They are typically less expensive than paved patios, but they should be swept or rinsed often to prevent muddy conditions.
Wood Patios
Wood is an attractive patio choice that provides homeowners with the rustic aesthetic they might want for their outdoor living space. Like stone, wood patios may require leveling to ensure that the finished product does not become uneven due to weathering and erosion.
Luxury Patios
Luxury patios are typically made from durable and expensive brick, stone, or masonry materials. They are ideal for high-traffic family rooms, pool areas, or entertaining spaces because they are easy to clean and maintain.
Concrete Paver Patio
Concrete pavers are versatile patio materials that come in several colors, shapes, and sizes. They are installed much like tile would be with mortar between each piece. The finished product is sturdy, looks attractive, and holds up well over time.
Artificial turf patio
Artificial turf patios are an option for homeowners who want a maintenance-free patio surface. Artificial turf holds up to foot traffic well and will not require reseeding, watering, or fertilizing compared to other natural grasses.
Pergola patios
Pergolas create shady spaces that are ideal for patios that will be used often. They can also provide homeowners with protection from the sun and rain without blocking outdoor views.
Porch Patio
Some homeowners choose to connect their house to their patio using a covered porch area. This is an attractive way to expand living space, especially if the porch connects two rooms or provides access to another room within the house.
Wood deck patio
Wood decks are similar to wood patios because they are treated lumber instead of stone or tile like other outdoor patio types. Wood decks offer more functionality than many patio designs because they include built-in seating areas, planters, grills, and tables.
Composite deck patio
Composite decking materials offer homeowners a low-maintenance option for their backyard patios. Composite lumber looks like wood but requires no sanding, staining, or refinishing over the years, and it is less likely to warp or split open due to harsh weather or high traffic areas.

What are the things to consider before building a patio?
- Consider lighting, where you’ll sit, and what the weather might be like when making your decision.
- Invest in a high-quality design, or you’ll have to replace it later.
- Consider the demographics of your property, like whether or not it’s near a road or next to other houses.
- Consider designing and building around an existing feature like a tree, flower bed, or old water well.
- Stick with familiar materials like brick, stone, or poured concrete.
- Do your research to see which style you like best.
How much do patios typically cost?
It isn’t easy to give a firm answer since many factors impact the overall cost. For example, if you’re going for an elaborate patio installation with multiple types of materials, landscaping, and decor added on, the price will be higher than a basic backyard patio. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1-$6 per square foot for your patio, depending on the material used.
Any additional landscaping, architectural design work, and other materials will add to the overall cost of your patio. Again, the prices mentioned are average prices between the different concrete companies within the county.


Final thoughts
When thinking about what kind of patio to install, consider the size and function of your yard. For larger lots, consider installing a patio with multiple features. Smaller properties may be better suited to small-scale patios. Painting your existing concrete patio can give it new life and change its look for less than the cost of demolishing it.
Consider a small option such as a paver or flagstone patio if you have limited space and don’t want to invest much money. On the other hand, if you’re looking for value and more room for entertaining, consider all the possibilities of a concrete patio. Concrete patios provide maximum benefit for the lowest cost.
It’s essential to understand all of the factors that will affect your decision to build a patio. This way, you can make an informed and confident choice about which material is suitable for you and your property. If this sounds like something you need help with, or if you want more information on the materials we offer, please call FTW Concrete Contractors today at (817) 241-0717.