1. FORGETTING ABOUT THE SUN
Do you love to soak up the sun or would you rather stay cool in the shade? Perhaps you'd like a space to enjoy the last of the evening light with a glass of something chilled, or you'd rather have a sunny alfresco brunch spot. Whatever the case, it's something to bear in mind when planning where to install your patio. 'One of the biggest mistakes we see is that homeowners forget to consider where the sun hits during the day,' says Joe Raboine, the Vice President of Design at Oldcastle APG, the parent company of Belgard.
2. CHOOSING THE WRONG MATERIALS
'Another mistake homeowners make when building a patio is not considering materials,' says Alex Capozzolo, the Co-Founder of SD House Guys. 'Although cost may be a factor in choosing which material to use, it is also important to ensure that the material you choose will both look good and stand up to the elements.
3. INSTALLING A PATIO THAT'S THE WRONG SIZE
Scott Chambers warns against making your patio either too small or too big. 'If it's too small, it may not be functional or aesthetically pleasing, and if it's too big, it may take up too much space or be too expensive to maintain.' Not to mention it will be much tougher on the wallet to install.
4. OVERLOOKING THE POWER OF LIGHTING
Lighting is a small addition that can make an impact on both the experience and functionality of a patio, says Joe from Belgard.
5. NOT HIRING A PRO
To keep down costs, you may be tempted to build a patio yourself. However, unless you have experience with hardscaping, it's probably best to hire a professional. 'DIY is not always the best option when it comes to installing a patio,' says Joe Raboine. 'Installing materials such as hardscapes is challenging, depending on the project’s size and scale. The bulk of the work is in the movement and placing of the materials, which requires proper knowledge and tools. Consider hiring a professional for help with design and installation, as they can also provide ideas on how to maximize the space or offer new design ideas.'
Alex Capozzolo agrees: 'While it may be tempting to try to complete the project yourself, consulting professionals can help ensure that your patio is built correctly and safely. Seeking out professionals who are experienced in building patios can save you time and money in the long run, as well as provide you with expert advice and knowledge.'