Custom Patio Blog

Have you always wanted to have a pergola in your garden or outdoor area but found the idea baseless? Then read on and find out 3 compelling reasons why you have a pergola installed in your outdoor area.

1. It transforms your outdoor area into a cozy sitting room or living room.
   Where there was only outdoor space now lies a perfect spot to spend your time in leisure and relax in comfort. A pergola allows you to be more creative with your outdoor space, marking an area where seating can be planned away from the heat of the sun while giving you great views of your garden or outdoor space.
2. A pergola can be the perfect spot for your air and vine plants.
   You wouldn’t even know it after installing a pergola but if you have limited outdoor space to devote to a gardening plot, you will suddenly have the perfect spot to hang your air plants or let vine plants crawl and thrive from. Pergolas historically were covered with flowering plants in the middle of a garden that makes it even a cooler spot to rest after a stroll around a garden. Now, even without a large garden to roam about, you’ll still have a refreshing spot to rest in with a pergola installed.
3. It adds to your property value as your outdoor living area is extended.
   While a pergola should be installed for one’s enjoyment, installing a pergola especially in a place with a hotter climate can definitely raise your property value. While it won’t bump up your real estate asking price as much as hardscape additions, a pergola can still add an increase to your asking price.

With these 3 reasons, we hope we’ve settled the doubts in your mind about installing a pergola. Still have questions about the specifics of having one? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a free consultation!

A concrete patio surface provides great coverage for a patio at affordable costs. As more homeowners favor concrete as a dependable and long-lasting patio material, here are 5 of the most frequently asked questions about installing a concrete patio.

What is cheaper: concrete or paver?

If we’re talking about upfront costs, pavers may cost more depending on the type, design, color, or any custom features you want. Concrete, poured or stamped, can cost anywhere between $6 to $10 while pavers can cost $10-20.

Can I pour concrete directly on dirt?

Yes, you can, however, it is not recommended as this practice will shorten the usability of your concrete patio. Since concrete is heavily influenced by the base it rests upon, any flaws or unevenness on the dirt will affect the concrete slab. The standard way of installing a concrete patio is by preparing a compact dirt base with a frame to mold the concrete perfectly.

Do you need gravel under concrete?

Yes as a layer of gravel will help proper water drainage as an untreated concrete surface will allow water to pass through its layers to the ground beneath it. Gravel in between the concrete slab and ground will act as a good permeable barrier as the water goes through the ground. A thick enough layer of gravel will also protect the concrete slab from the pooling water. Concrete slabs that are directly in contact with water may erode faster over time.

What type of gravel goes under concrete?

Your residential contractor will most likely suggest a gravel type with components which are more or less the same size. This gravel type makes up for a permeable, compacting materials that will hold itself great against the weight of a concrete slab. Other materials which can go beneath a concrete are sand and crushed stone.

Didn’t find your question about concrete patios in the list above? Reach out and ask us personally! We also have a free consultation for your concrete patio or any outdoor project you may have in mind!

Fire pits are always a welcome addition to any outdoor area. If you’re just starting to consider a fire pit, we’ve compiled a list of questions our fire pit clients have asked over the years. Find out if any of your fire pit question is below.

Can you have a fire pit on your driveway?

Fire pits are known to be great space-saving outdoor heater. Given its compact nature, some homeowners think a fire pit, especially a portable one, can easily be installed on their driveway. However, if you have asphalt as a patio surface for your driveway, it might not be wise to put a fire pit near it. Asphalt is highly combustible, thus, a fire pit might not be best put on your driveway.

Where should you put a fire pit in your yard?

A fire pit is best installed on level ground, in a cleared area where there is no hanging foliage, branches or tall grasses surrounding the area which can catch fire from sparks that will fly once a fire pit is lit. Make sure there is nothing flammable near your fire pit. If your fire pit needs to be under a patio cover, there must be enough vertical clearance between the fire pit, its fire height, and the ceiling and other patio cover accessories.

Is a fire pit considered an open fire?

A fire pit is an acceptable open fire ring, so long as its above the ground and away from flammable things.

What should you put a fire pit on?

A fire pit is best put on a fire-resistant material such as a concrete, paver, brick, or even a steel or metal surface. However, know that some of these surfaces would most likely absorb heat from the fire pit so caution must still be applied when approaching and touching a lit fire pit.

Do fire pits need air vents?

Yes, fire pits need air vents to promote oxygen circulation which is needed to keep the flames going. Air vents are particularly important for aboveground and walled in fire pit as air circulation in these types of fire pits can be poorer without the proper amount of air vents.

Still have some questions unanswered? Send us a message today and we’ll gladly answer that for you.

Start reclaiming your patio from the ground up. A suitable patio floor will open up your outdoor space to more activities that suits your outdoor lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a patio surface option for your driveway, walkway or outdoor room, here are 3 patio surface options that will upgrade your patio into a fully usable outdoor space.

Paver Patio

With the materials’ countless textures, shapes, designs, and patterns, pavers allow you to have a unique patio surface that is also a work of art. Pavers can be installed directly or on a concrete base in different patterns like herringbone, basketweave, or circular. Pavers remain a popular choice for its versatility and affordability. If a piece breaks or pops out, it can easily be replaced. Installing it, however, needs expertise as simply laying it on the ground may result in an uneven surface after some time.

Concrete Patio

Concrete is great for high traffic areas such as driveways, outdoor rooms, and walkways. It is also the patio surface choice for modern homes with its smooth surface and strong, sharp edges. Concrete can be stained or stamped to achieve a different color or finish. Installed correctly, concrete can last a lifetime however it can be prone to cracks and breaks if there are shifts in the ground. A concrete patio should also be planned thoroughly as it is harder to replace than the other patio surface options.

Flagstone Patio

Flagstones are known for its unique look that no two flagstone slabs are ever alike. It is also inexpensive compared to marble but is just as strong and sturdy. Its hard-wearing surface can withstand high impact and traffic, making it perfect as steppingstones. They are also usually formed as a pathway or pool surround. It can be laid directly on the ground or on a thin concrete base to prevent it from sinking over time.

While your holiday feasts and celebrations may be smaller this year with only your immediate family around, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t prepare your outdoor kitchen for a feast that will still be memorable, especially in this unprecedented times. So here are 5 steps to prepare your outdoor kitchen just in time for holiday cooking!

1. Check your utility lines.
   There’s nothing more annoying than having your stove or sink not working properly right in the middle of a big cookout. So, before you crank your outdoor stove, oven or grill to high heat, make sure your gas lines are working properly. Also check your water pipes for leaks. If you’re not sure what to look for, you might want to ask your contractor for tips or have them show up for a quick checkup.
2. Test your outdoor lighting.
   If you think your celebrations will last well into the night, test your outdoor kitchen task lights and see whether it gives the right amount of lighting to let you work on your ingredients and aid you in cooking.
3. Crossmatch your menu with your cooking and dinnerware inventory.
   If you already have an idea of what you will be cooking for the holidays, ensure you have the right kitchen tools and dinnerware stocked in your outdoor kitchen storage. From tongs for grills to serving plates and cooking knives and cutlery, it’s always easier and better to cook with every tool you need at arms’ length away.
4. Prepare for the weather.
   Be it a light drizzle, some snowfall, or a strong breeze, make sure nothing gets in your way of cooking and feasting during the holidays. Aside from the heat from your stove or grills, it’s best if you have your fire pit going as a source of warmth. Position your canopy or awning for immediate protection in case of rain or snow.
5. Give each family member a task.
   This makes everyone look forward to the day with a purpose and goal in mind. It makes everyone part of not only the holiday feast but also preparing.

If you have a backyard that’s nothing but a yard of weeds or overgrown grasses, you may be missing an opportunity that can change your outdoor lifestyle for the better. Here are 5 structures you can have installed in your backyard that will surely have you being outdoors, even if it’s just in your own backyard.

Porch
Porches are great for afternoon teas, stargazing, or meditation. Convert your plain backyard into a perfect place to spend your leisurely days and nights. A comfortable seat or two, a small table, and some ambient lights is all you need to convert your backyard porch into a cozy, private retreat.

Fire Pit
If you’d rather relish having the sky as your roof, then maybe a fire pit is all you need to make your backyard more suitable for an outdoor hangout. Keep your outdoor space as warm and cozy as your indoor room with a fire pit or fireplace lit up. Don’t forget to bring the kettle for some hot chocolate or tea and some marshmallows to toast.

Shed
Convert a spot in your backyard as a shed for all of your power tools. Have you amassed more than a drawer or two of tools and equipment? Maybe it’s time to create an appropriate storage space so that next time you need something, you wouldn’t have to hunt for it in one of your drawers or nooks. Proper storage will save you a lot of time looking for it and tools won’t have to get tangled with each other.

Hobby Room
A step up from the shed is the hobby room. Are you into some woodworking, sculpting, painting, or writing? When the main house gets a little too busy and noisy, a hobby room apart from the main house may help you concentrate on your hobby and get more done. It can also be your safe space you can truly call your own.

Kitchen Garden
As going out and getting fresh produce can be tricky at times, having a kitchen garden can help you eat more vegetables. If you’re not so sure of having a green thumb, you can start with herbs that can thrive on your kitchen windowsill and replant it when they’ve grown a bit.

As the wind gets crisper and the leaves slowly change color, autumn is the prime time to sit back and relax beside your fire pit. Since it is fire pit season again, here are 5 reminders to have a safe fire pit lounge.

1. 25 is the magic number.
   To ensure fire safety, it is recommended to keep your fire pit away from any structure for at least 25 feet. If you have a store-bought fire pit, keep it above ground. If you are into sunken fire pits, make sure you have the proper firewall surround to keep the fire and heat contained.
2. Consider your fuel.
   Is it gas that’s connected to your main pipeline? Or maybe a propane fuel tank? If you want to go the traditional route with firewood, make sure you it’s natural untreated wood and not the construction wood or any of its variety. These wood types are commercially treated and may give off noxious gases which are harmful for you to inhale. So, it’s best to stick to natural firewood. Also check with your HOA or zoning guidelines to make sure you won’t be violating any rules or regulations regarding fire pit fuels.
3. Prop spark screens to fight the wind.
   Sparks may seem small enough but if it alights on anything that’s flammable, it can cause considerable damage. So be sure to have spark screens propped against the wind and prevent the breeze from spreading the sparks.
4. Add a grill for a festive atmosphere.
   Make your fire pit stay fulfilling gastronomically with a grill on top of your fire pit. You can have a cast iron grill which retains heat and gives you that perfectly smoky flavor. It might cost more than a steel grill, but a well-seasoned cast iron will last you a lifetime.
5. Burn aromatic scents for zen and insects.
   If you want to relax without pesky insects hovering and biting you, you can burn sage, citronella, peppermint, dried orange peel and mint. Mosquitoes and other insects hate strong-smelling smoke coming out of your fire pit but you’d love it.

Outdoor kitchens are a great addition to your outdoor area, functional regardless of the season, and transforms your yard with a festive atmosphere. Here are 5 outdoor kitchen layouts for you to consider.

A spacious U-shaped outdoor kitchen allows more people to contribute to the grilling process. With a functional sink that allows one to do minor cleaning up and washing of ingredients, there’s no need for tiring trips to the indoor kitchen. There’s also a lot of storage where you can put your dinnerware and grilling necessities, even some herbs and spices. A compact icebox nearby can store your drinks or marinated meat. With an outdoor kitchen like this, you’ll be having an easier and faster time to cook, eat, and entertain all at the same time!

This next outdoor kitchen project is a complete outdoor room setup with the fireplace and kitchen to keep you warm while you grill eat. Grill comfortably away from the sun, and when the chilly nighttime comes, fire up the fireplace to keep you warm while you enjoy some more grilled meat.

This minimalist outdoor kitchen setup features everything you need for a grill setup with lots of counterspace devoted to preparation and presentation. If you want to have a fabulous spread of various grilled dishes, this minimalist setup will allow you to do that.

Here is a compact L-shaped outdoor kitchen under a covered patio. Features include built-in storage, a custom-fitted grill, and lots of counterspace. The finish also blends well with the paver patio surface.

Small spaces can still have an outdoor kitchen installed, even if it’s just a short strip. In this outdoor kitchen, you have the grill, a small sink, a food storage and enough countertop for food preparation and presentation. A clever use of space is all one needs to have an outdoor kitchen.

If you truly want an outdoor kitchen, your reliable contractor will always find a way to make it work.

Maximize the use of your outdoor space by transforming it into a fun and comfortable area which suits your lifestyle. Here are 5 tips to reclaim your outdoor space and have a space that addresses your needs.

1. List down all the features you want in an outdoor space.
   This helps you assign ample space for that feature. It can be having a reading nook, meditation corner, a spot for the fire pit, or a vantage point where you can conveniently survey your garden. This also helps you prioritize which features are the most important according to your outdoor lifestyle.
2. Be creative in finding out which outdoor space to use.
   Aside from your front or backyard, you can also transform your side yard, and rooftop into a great outdoor space. Each space has its own charm and limitations so take those into consideration when designing your outdoor space.
3. Define the living area with a raised deck.
   A deck clearly delineates the area for outdoor living and garden while still promoting a smooth indoor-outdoor transformation. A deck gives you a level surface for an outdoor space that can be used as an outdoor living room, kitchen and even a dining area.
4. Protect your outdoor space so it will be functional all year round.
   Install a patio cover such as an awning, pergola, umbrella, or even extend your roof line to make the area accessible regardless of the weather. Have enough seating under it to make the space functional even during rainy or snowy weather.
5. Install a privacy screen.
   Despite being out in the open, still protect your privacy with a convenient trellis or vertical garden of small potted plants. This gives your outdoor area enough cover while also still allowing you to enjoy doing activities in your outdoors away from prying eyes.

Maximize the living space out of your outdoors by installing a patio cover over your patio. Aside from extending your existing roofline, there are other portable options depending on the size of outdoor area you want to cover. Here are 5 types of patio cover that will make your outdoor space accessible and useful to you regardless of the weather.

Traditional Solid Patio Cover
A basic roof over your patio, this suits your outdoor room that cannot risk any disturbance from inclement weather such as your dining area, outdoor kitchen or over a fire pit. Whether it’s an extension of your existing roofline or standalone, a well-crafted patio cover can stand to protect your space for decades.

Pergola
Pergola is a semi-solid patio cover which allows for more sunlight and air to pass through freely. Pergolas are usually installed in the midst of a garden, over a path or even as a patio cover by the side of the house. It can use traditionally treated wood or rust-proof aluminum, steel or even concrete at times.

Modern Patio Cover
Metal patio covers are often overlooked for its rigid and industrial look but it does fit the aesthetic, especially of modern homes filled with straight clean lines. It can also be the patio cover choice of those who are looking for maximum coverage but least space occupied. Metal patio covers can have a steel beam network and metal wires running across.

Umbrella
On the other side of the coin, a sturdy patio umbrella is designed to withstand sunlight, rain, and wind. It keeps your yard free from any obstruction and can easily be folded when not in use.

Shades
Whether it’s manually operated or with a remote control, shades can be installed on top of your pergola. You can also go for a natural shade in terms of planting a tree specie which boasts of a large canopy.