What Size Should You Build Your Patio?

If you are contemplating new patio ideas and are going to build a new patio, you should be careful to avoid the number one mistake: building too small a patio. Most people think that if they build their patio with just enough room to fit a table, four chairs, and maybe a grill that it will be big enough. Only once it is built and they start to use it do they realize it is way too small.

A great way to start when thinking of constructing your patio is to look at the different rooms in your house. Think about how many people will be using the patio and think about how they would fit into each room. When you find the room that is the right size to accomodate the number of people along with the chairs and table, you will have found the aproximate size your patio should be.

When you decide on your patio's size, it might just be a good idea to even make it a little bigger! When you are planning things it is easy to underestimate how much room you will really need. You need to make sure your patio has enough room for the grill, the heat lamps you may purchase in the future, and any other fancy reclining chairs that may be in your plans as well. It is always better to have too big a patio where everybody can comfortably relax instead of one that is too cramped.

Another thing to think of is any possible house expansions you might decide to do in the coming years. If you make your patio the exact right size for your house right now, what happens when you decide to add on a room or two in the future? What might be right now may become too small if you expand. For that reason, making the patio too big now will eliminate the need for you to make any improvements in the future and save you money.

Your patio design ideas will also be a factor in the size you choose. Most patio designs are a boring square or rectangle shape. If you decide on some other style of patio, like a shape that goes well with the contour of the yard, it will be harder to estimate the exact size you need. In those cases, it is best to map out on the ground the exact shape of the patio to see how it fits in with it's surroundings. A unique patio design shape can be made to enhance the beauty of the yard and house and ultimately add value to your home. Again though, it is best to make sure that it is not too small and provides enough room for all your guests to easily fit and enjoy themselves.