Project hub · 10 guides

Patios

Pavers, flagstone or concrete: patterns, base layers and what each surface really costs per square foot.

Step one

Pick a surface

The surface sets the base you dig, the tools you rent and the cost per square foot.

PaversPaver Patio Ideas: Patterns, Materials and Base Basics FlagstoneFlagstone Patio Ideas: Patterns, Joints and Real Costs ConcreteConcrete Patio Ideas on a Budget (Old Slab or New)

Step two

Shape the space

Size it

Small Patio Ideas: Layouts, Sizes and Space Tricks

Patios · 7 min read

Decide

Patio Privacy Ideas: Block the View, Keep the Light

Patios · 7 min read

Decide Pick the right project

Decide

Concrete vs Paver Patio: Cost, Cracks, Repairs, DIY

Concrete vs paver patio: plain concrete runs $4–$12 per sq ft installed, pavers $8–$24. Compare base, cracking vs settling, freeze-thaw, DIY and repairs.

10 min read

Price it Know the real cost

Price it

Paver Patio Cost Installed: Per Square Foot and by Size

Paver patio cost installed runs $8–$24 per sq ft: about $1,400–$2,500 for 12×12 and $3,200–$9,600 for 20×20. See prices by material, base, labor and DIY.

10 min read

Make it hold Load, fixings and code

Make it hold

Patio Paver Base: Gravel and Sand Depths That Stop Sinking

Patio paver base depths by soil: 4 to 12 inches of compacted gravel, 1 inch of concrete sand, 1-2% slope, plus fabric, frost and edge rules that stop sinking.

11 min read

Build it Materials and methods

Build it

Paver Patio Installation Tools: What to Buy, Rent or Skip

Paver patio installation tools by phase: what to buy, which plate compactor force to rent, saw vs splitter, and OSHA silica rules for cutting pavers safely.

9 min read

Build it

DIY Gravel Patio: Base, Edging and Gravel Size, Step by Step

DIY gravel patio build: dig 4 to 5 inches, pick 1/4 to 3/8-inch pea gravel or 1/2-inch crushed stone, stake edging every 4 feet, and add a grid if needed.

11 min read

Other projects

Planning something else?

Decks Pergolas Outdoor Kitchens Raised Beds Fences & Privacy Hardscape & Paths Sheds Porches