How to Build a Patio: A Step-by-Step Guide With Pro Tips

A patio is one of the best ways to upgrade your outdoor space.

You might be thinking about a quiet place to relax outside or maybe a spot to host weekend get-togethers. Building a patio adds comfort and style to your yard, and it’s a project that can be simple with the right guidance. This guide will walk you through every step and share expert tips from A-Core Concrete Specialists to help you get it right.

Why Building a Patio Is a Smart Investment

A patio does more than just look nice. It adds real value to your home and gives you extra space to enjoy.

First, it can boost your property value. Outdoor living spaces are something buyers look for, and even if you’re not planning to sell soon, it’s a solid long-term improvement.

Second, it creates a space to relax, gather, and enjoy the outdoors without leaving home. From quiet mornings with coffee to summer dinners with friends, a patio becomes a natural extension of your living space.

And finally, it makes your yard more useful and easier to maintain. Instead of managing a large patch of grass or uneven ground, you have a clean, defined space that’s ready for furniture, planters, or a grill.

Choosing the Right Patio Material

The material you choose will shape how your patio looks, feels, and holds up over time. Each option has its own style, cost, and level of upkeep.

Concrete is one of the most popular choices. It’s affordable, strong, and can be poured into just about any shape. You can keep it simple with a smooth finish or add texture and color for a more decorative look.

Pavers are another good option. They come in different shapes, colors, and patterns, and they’re easy to replace if one gets damaged. They can shift a little over time, though, so it’s important to install them on a solid base.

Natural stone looks great and lasts a long time, but it’s usually more expensive and takes more work to install. It’s a good choice if you want something high-end or rustic.

Think about your local weather, how much maintenance you want to do, and the overall look you’re going for. If you’re not sure what fits best, this is where talking to a pro like A-Core can really help.

Planning Your Patio Layout

Before you start digging or pouring anything, it’s important to plan your space.

Start by measuring your yard and figuring out where you want the patio to go. Think about how you’ll use it. Do you want a cozy spot for two chairs, or a large area with a dining table and grill? Lay out a rough shape using a garden hose or string so you can see how it fits with the rest of your yard.

Pay attention to the sun and shade throughout the day. A little afternoon shade can make your patio much more comfortable. Also think about water drainage. You don’t want rainwater collecting on your patio or flowing toward your house, so the area should slope slightly away from buildings.

Last, check for local building codes or permits. Some areas require permission for patios, especially if you’re using concrete. It’s always better to handle that up front.

Preparing the Site

Getting the ground ready is one of the most important steps in building a patio. A solid foundation keeps everything level and helps prevent cracks or shifting later on.

Start by clearing the area of grass, roots, and debris. You’ll want to dig down about 6 to 8 inches, depending on the type of material you’re using. If you’re pouring concrete, you’ll need space for a base layer and the concrete itself.

Once the area is cleared, it’s time to level and grade the ground. Use a long board and a level to make sure everything is flat, but not perfectly flat. You want a slight slope about a quarter inch per foot so water drains away from your house.

Next comes the base layer. Most patios need a few inches of compacted gravel or crushed stone to support the surface and help with drainage. For pavers, you may also add a layer of sand on top of the gravel to help them settle evenly.

Take your time with this step. A strong, level base makes the rest of the project a lot easier.

Pouring and Finishing the Concrete

This is where your patio starts to take shape.

Start by building the formwork. These are the wooden boards that hold the concrete in place while it sets. Make sure the edges are straight and secure, and double-check your slope for drainage one last time.

Now it’s time to pour. You can mix concrete yourself with bags and a mixer, or have it delivered if you’re covering a larger area. Pour it evenly into the form and spread it out using a shovel or rake. Once the surface is filled, use a straight board to screed it. This just means dragging the board across the top to smooth it out.

Before the concrete fully sets, use a float to smooth the surface. Then add control joints, which are shallow lines that help prevent cracks later. You can cut them with a special tool or press them in while the concrete is still soft.

You can also choose how you want the surface to look. A simple broom finish gives it texture and grip. A smooth finish looks clean but can get slippery when wet. For something more decorative, stamped concrete is a great option and is best done by a professional.

Once that’s done, let the concrete cure properly before walking on it. 

Curing, Sealing, and Maintenance Tips

Once the concrete is poured and finished, it needs time to cure. Curing is what gives concrete its strength, so it’s important not to rush this part.

Right after finishing, cover the surface with plastic sheeting or lightly mist it with water and cover it with a tarp. This keeps the moisture in and helps the concrete harden evenly. Let it cure for at least 3 days before walking on it and about a week before placing furniture. Full strength usually takes 28 days.

After curing, sealing your patio is a smart move. A concrete sealer protects the surface from stains, water damage, and wear from the weather. You can apply it with a roller or sprayer, and it usually dries in a few hours. Reseal every couple of years to keep it looking fresh.

For ongoing care, keep your patio clean by sweeping off dirt and rinsing it occasionally with a hose. In colder areas, avoid using salt in the winter since it can damage the surface. Use a plastic shovel if you need to clear snow.

With just a little maintenance, your patio will last for many years.

When to Call the Pros

You can build a patio on your own, but sometimes it makes more sense to bring in the experts for residential services.

If your yard has uneven ground, drainage issues, or a tricky layout, a professional team can save you a lot of time and trouble. They’ll know how to level the site, set the right slope, and make sure everything drains the way it should.

Concrete work also takes a certain skill, especially if you want a smooth finish or a decorative design like stamping or staining. Mistakes can lead to cracks, uneven surfaces, or water pooling. A-Core Concrete Specialists have years of experience with these kinds of projects, and they bring the right tools, crew, and knowledge to get it done right the first time.

You should also consider calling a pro if you want the project done quickly. What might take you a few weekends could be finished in a day or two by a crew that does this every day.

If you’re thinking bigger, maybe adding steps, walkways, or a custom look, A-Core can help you plan and build it from start to finish.

Turn Your Patio Plans Into a Backyard You Love

Building a patio is one of the best ways to upgrade your outdoor space. With the right materials, a solid plan, and careful prep, you can create something that looks great and lasts for years.

A-Core Concrete Specialists has teams located throughout the West, Southwest, and beyond, including Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Oregon, Louisiana, and more. Wherever you are, we’re ready to help bring your patio plans to life with quality craftsmanship and lasting results.

Find your nearest A-Core location and get a free quote today.