During the pandemic, approximately 75% of homeowners completed a major house project, and that same percentage was planning on more in the future. Home renovations spiked while people were socially distanced and in lockdowns. They have yet to fully slow up, and we are here to tell you why a patio renovation should be next on your list!
In San Diego County, the weather makes it an ideal place to spend time outside. A patio renovation can redesign your backyard and give you another comfortable sitting area for guests.
Luckily, we have put together a complete guide on what you should include on your patio renovation checklist and how much you can expect it to cost, so keep reading for more information!
What Is a Patio Renovation?
A patio renovation falls under the umbrella term “outdoor remodeling.” Your outdoor space isn’t complete without a beautiful patio design where you can relax and host parties. A patio renovation can also boost curb appeal and home value!
What goes into a patio renovation checklist?
- Foundational layer (e.g., brick, concrete)
- Patio cover
- Patio enclosure
- Fire pits
- Kitchen
- Size
- Construction costs
- And more!
This list doesn’t even include one of the most fun parts: decorating and adding furniture. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes before you can start adding in couches, chairs, plants, and other decor items.
Patio Renovation Ideas
Before jumping onto Google, here are some general patio renovation ideas you will want to consider:
- Are concrete pavers worth it?
- Do you need a patio enclosure?
- What is my budget?
- How big is your backyard?
- What will you use your patio for?
For example, do you want your backyard turned into an outdoor kitchen oasis? San Diego is an excellent region to bask outside with its year-round sunshine but take into account rainy days. If you plan on frequently hosting outdoor events, you will likely want a patio cover or screen to protect kitchen appliances.
If you have the space, maybe you want more seating arrangements which will cost more in terms of concrete and labor. Before getting started, you must factor in your budget limit and square footage.
Luckily, if you are focusing on a patio renovation, you already know how big your patio space can be. But don’t let that deceive you. Many patios are completely transformed into outdoor arrangements you could have never imagined.
Benefits of Concrete
Concrete is ideal for outdoor spaces. Your patio renovation checklist should include upgrading to concrete or tearing out your old concrete if it is cracked or degraded.
The benefit of concrete is that it is highly durable and cheap! It costs much less than stone and is quicker to install.
Also, concrete is an easy maintenance project. While patios built from wood or stone might require special sealants and products, you should be able to simply spray off your concrete with a pressure hose when it gets dirty.
And before you start frowning about picturing drab gray concrete, think again. Concrete comes in many different styles and designs. One of the more popular patio remodeling ideas is concrete pavers.
Concrete pavers combine cement, sand, gravel, and other pigments. They are much stronger than standard concrete, withstanding up to 8,000 pounds per square inch. It can come in different sizes, shapes, and colors.
While plain concrete does look a bit dull, concrete pavers give the look of stone or clay brick pavers in terms of aesthetics.
Patio Enclosures and Covers
Using patio enclosures and covers can offer protection, comfortability, and design options. Professionally engineered materials are durable and safe to withstand San Diego’s weather systems.
Designs 4 You have plenty of options for screens, pergolas, or enclosures, including materials like:
- Aluminum frame systems
- Standard insect screens
- Screeneze system
- Pet screens
- Solar screens
If you have a patio that faces directly west, you may want a solar screen to block up to 90% of harmful UV rays and keep temperatures cooler.
Patio Accessories
Last – but certainly not least – you want a patio that is comfortable and functional. To increase the comfortability of your outdoor patio space, here are a few additional ideas to add to your renovation:
- New seating
- Grills
- Outdoor refrigerator (e.g., beer or wine cooler)
- Garden island
- Add a border
- Hang furniture
- Use a sliding door
- Add greenery
Even small patio spaces can turn into comfortable sitting arrangements to host family or friends. Consider adding a concrete border for more privacy and keeping your patio separate from the rest of your backyard. You could also create a border and add some greenery through potted plants, shrubs, or other plants.
How Much Does a Patio Remodel Cost?
The cost of a patio renovation primarily depends on how much you want to uproot. Suppose you have a solid foundation, that eliminates a large chunk of the cost. A complete remodel could cost upwards of $35,000!
Yet, the price range can vary from $5,000 onwards, so talk to a few companies first to get a better idea. The good news is that some patio additions can give you excellent returns on home value.
The highest expenses will be labor and materials. Kitchen appliances and fire pits also add up. Depending on where you live, you may have higher prices than other regions.
Your Next Summer Project
With summer quickly approaching, you may be itching to get outside. San Diego weather is excellent for outdoor lounging, and nothing quite beats the luxury of a comfortable patio set-up. A patio renovation adds functionality, comfortability, and curb appeal to your home.
At Designs 4 You, we specialize in various patio renovations. We can take your old one and completely replace it with something more luxurious, or give it a simple makeover. Whatever your new patio goals are, contact us today for a free estimate!
