How Much Does an Outdoor Living Patio Cost?

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How Much Does It Cost to Build an Outdoor Living Patio?

Creating or remodeling a patio for outdoor living can be an exciting project, but it’s important to understand that the costs can vary widely. Every location has different costs for labor and materials, and each property presents unique challenges, such as access for moving materials in and out. This article aims to guide you through understanding these variables and how you can achieve a fair price for your outdoor living patio project.

Tiny Patio Idea Layout for outdoor living upgrade Side View

Why We Can’t Give a Definitive Answer in an Online Article

Firstly, it’s crucial to recognize that no article can give you an exact price for building an outdoor living patio. Factors such as geographic location, the complexity of your design, and the specific materials you choose all influence the final cost. Additionally, the accessibility of your backyard can significantly affect labor costs. However, we can provide you with strategies to ensure you get a fair price and feel confident about your investment.

1. A Good Patio Plan is the Most Important Element for a Good Quote

A solid plan is the foundation of any successful project. Whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring contractors, having a detailed plan is essential. A well-thought-out plan includes clear drawings, mock-ups, and visualizations. These not only help you envision the final result but also ensure that you and your contractors are on the same page. Remember, it’s cheaper to make changes during the planning stage than after construction has begun.

Moreover, having a detailed plan finalized for your wants and needs will be a blueprint on what is needed to achieve your vision. Knowing what is needed, along with the sizes required, will help you start to shop for features and materials. It will also give you an apples-to-apples comparison to compare quotes. The materials, features, and square footage will also give you an estimate going into the project about what to expect as far as availability and price.

Outdoor patio plan mockup

Planning Your Outdoor Patio Space? Start with our Comprehensive Guide. It includes actionable steps to guide you through every step.

2. Don’t Be Put Off by Paid Estimates

Quality estimates cost money. A thorough estimate involves time and expertise and often includes detailed drawings and measurable plans. While free estimates might seem appealing, paying for a professional estimate can save you money in the long run by providing a clearer picture of the project’s scope and costs. Typically, a good estimate will cost between 3% and 5% of the total project cost but can save you from costly surprises later on.

Paid estimates can be the design and plan. If you pay for a good design and plan- or used our guides to create your own, the actual work estimate will be much less. The contractor will know you are informed. They will also know they are in a professional competitive bid. Furthermore, they can give you a tighter bid as there will be less unknowns to account for in a nondescript bid. Plus, Contractors want to know when a job is done. If they have a definite scope of work, you will get a much better bid. Don’t be afraid to tell them what they are building, and what you will be building or supplying. Let them know upfront the true scope of work.

3. Determine What Patio Upgrades You Can Do Yourself

Identify the tasks you can handle and those that are better left to professionals. For instance, while some DIY enthusiasts might feel comfortable installing certain elements, others might prefer to leave more complex tasks like masonry or electrical work to experts. Even if you’re planning to do most of the work yourself, investing in a professional plan can provide a valuable guide.

Its difficult to do everything yourself. And while you may be theoretically capable; you may not be capable in practice. A large job that relies too much on your own work may stretch out too long. You can risk losing focus and momentum. Nothing is worse than a job 90% completed that never gets finished. Don’t over-exert yourself. You are a professional at something that people pay you for. Be sure to pay other professionals when needed. Foe example, I’ll do a paver job, but not a concrete pour. Plus, I have no qualms having someone do my excavation work. Yes, I can do it myself, but instead of renting equipment and taking all the risk, I’ll have a pro who excavates every day. It will be done faster and better- no matter how I may lie to myself about how great I am on a skid steer.

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Large Outdoor Pizza Oven Island and modular kitchen component Dimensions

Expert Designs and Cost Certainty—No Surprises

Our experts meticulously select each component to deliver the best balance of functionality, durability, and style, all at a transparent price. With detailed drawings, exact dimensions, proven brand appliances, and all-inclusive pricing, you know exactly what to expect—no hidden costs, no stress. This ensures you get maximum value and confidence in your project.

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Tailored to Fit Your Space with Endless Customization

While our kits offer the reliability of pre-designed systems, they also provide the flexibility to customize your space to suit your unique needs. Configure each module to fit your outdoor area perfectly, ensuring that your finished project meets and exceeds your expectations.

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Built from premium, weather-resistant materials, our products are designed for long-lasting quality with minimal upkeep. With our kits, you’re not just getting a beautiful outdoor space—you’re investing in a hassle-free experience that provides enjoyment for years to come.

4. Focus on the Foundation: Flat Work- It’s everywhere on your patio

Speaking of skid steer… The foundation of your patio, whether it’s a concrete pad, pavers, or flagstone, is critical. This stage involves a lot of heavy lifting and precise work, often requiring special equipment like a skid steer. The groundwork is labor-intensive and should be done correctly to ensure the longevity of your patio.

Do not cut corners here. This is the heavy work and crux of the whole job. Call a professional if you are not familiar with this work and are comfortable with it. Most people do not have the equipment to excavate dirt, haul tons of gravel, and manipulate that gravel into a level base with proper drainage. Did I mention running the plumbing and electrical lines? Leave this work to the pros. You can tackle it if it is small enough or if it is a walkway. Just know you will likely want professional help with the delivery of materials.

5. Utilize Prefabricated Kits for Cost Savings

Prefabricated kits, like those offered by Cornerstone, can save you both time and money. These kits are designed for easy DIY installation, reducing the need for skilled labor on-site. This approach simplifies the process and helps avoid the high costs associated with bespoke installations.

82 year old built his fireplace kit. So can you!
If this 82 year old can make it look easy- so can YOU

Jim is 82, and he built our outdoor fireplace kit.

Doubt that you can build your own outdoor fireplace? It’s incredibly easy. Don’t take our word for it. Ask Jim- our 82-year-old customer!

6. Get Multiple Bids for your Patio Project

Always get multiple bids for your project. If one bid is significantly lower than the others, it’s a red flag. It’s likely the contractor missed something or is cutting corners. Choose a contractor you trust and feel comfortable working with, even if they are not the cheapest. The relationship and communication you have with your contractor are crucial to the project’s success.

7. Invest in Low Maintenance and Durability

When choosing materials, prioritize low maintenance and durability. These factors can save you money in the long run. While natural stone is beautiful, it is often more expensive and labor-intensive to install. Opt for materials that are easy to work with and have a consistent thickness and quality to reduce labor costs.

Check out our pre-designed outdoor kitchen layouts for your backyard patio inspiration

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8. Beware of Contractors Available to Start Immediately

Good contractors are usually booked in advance. Be cautious of contractors who are available to start immediately, as this might indicate a lack of ongoing work due to quality or reliability issues. It’s better to wait for a reputable contractor than to risk hiring someone who may not deliver the quality you expect.

Conclusion

Building an outdoor living patio is a significant investment, and while it’s difficult to provide a precise cost, following these guidelines can help you achieve a fair price. Remember, a well-planned project saves time and money, so take the time to plan thoroughly, get professional estimates, and choose your contractors wisely. With careful planning and smart decisions, you can create an outdoor space that enhances your home and provides years of enjoyment.

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