Outdoor living is more popular than ever. If you enjoy spending time and entertaining outside, then you may want to consider adding more to your home's outdoor living spaces. A patio is a great way to increase your usable outdoor square footage. Patios are great spaces for entertainment and can even feel like outdoor living rooms. They can be built from a variety of materials and can be as simple or as ornate as you desire. If you are considering a new patio, here are three things that you should know.

Patio Materials

When it comes to any construction project, it's important to take a close look at all of the options available to you before making your decision. Patios can be built from a variety of materials. Some of the most common options include concrete, gravel, flagstone, and pavers. Take a close look at your budget and your needs before making your decision. You will also want to consider your local climate. Some options may work better than others in certain parts of the country.

The Cost

Of course, your budget will likely play a major role in what type of patio you end up with. The good news is that a functional and attractive patio is available at a variety of price points. Gravel is the most economical option costing an average of $1.40 per square foot with installation. Concrete is pricier than gravel but less expensive than flagstone and pavers. Concrete costs $8.50 per square foot while pavers average out to $10.00 per square foot and flagstone to around $15.00 per square foot. Site preparation can also add to the cost, especially if a significant amount of leveling is needed. 

How Long Installation Takes

If you are looking into a new patio, it's also important to consider how long it will take for installation. Patio installation time can vary depending on the type of patio being installed, how much preparation is needed, and whether or not the weather cooperates. Professional patio installation is also typically going to be much faster than tackling your patio project as a do-it-yourself job. You will also want to check to see if you need a permit or if there are any other local code issues that may pop up during construction. New landscaping may also be needed in the areas surrounding the patio, which can add to the budget and the timeline. It can take anywhere from a couple of days to a few weeks for your patio to be finished.

If you are considering adding a new patio to your home, there are a few things to consider. There are a variety of patio materials to consider and costs can vary. Installation times can also vary depending on the materials used, whether permits are needed, and the local weather conditions. Contact a company like Glacier Landscape for more information.