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Patio building services

How to find the right person to build your new patio.

Tim Falk
Tim Falk

Updated

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A new patio can help you make the most of your outdoor space and let you spend more time enjoying Australia's beautiful climate. But if you're looking for someone to install your new patio, it's important that you shop around to find the best person for the job.

This guide will explore what patio experts do, how to find the right patio installer, and what you need to do to prepare for the installation.

What does a patio expert do?

A patio expert can help plan and build your new patio. This includes drafting plans, sending those plans for council approval if required, preparing the site and constructing the patio. The construction process can vary greatly from one patio to the next, and could include anything from pouring concrete or laying pavers to building a deck and adding a patio cover.

A patio expert will also have up-to-date knowledge of the building rules and regulations in your area, and can advise you of any permits you need and any other guidelines you must follow.

How do I book a patio expert?

You can book a patio expert over the phone or by filling out an online enquiry form. The patio installer will then organise a time to visit you, assess the site and your needs, and provide a quote for their services.

How much does a patio expert cost?

There are several factors that can affect how much it costs to install a patio. These include:

  • Whether the patio will be attached to your home (as is usually the case) or freestanding
  • What materials the patio will be made of
  • The roof design and roofing materials
  • The size of the patio
  • Any special features the patio may have, for example built-in seating or an outdoor kitchen
  • Any other special requirements, such as drainage or satisfying regulations in bushfire-prone areas
  • Ease of access to the building site

You'll need to contact a few different patio experts directly to obtain quotes for the work you need done. You can then compare quotes to find the best value for money.

How do I compare patio experts?

Consider the following factors when comparing patio installers:

  • What services they offer. Are you looking for a company to build the patio, one to assist with the design and planning process, or both? Can the service manage all aspects of a new patio build or will you need to hire multiple contractors to complete separate tasks? If the company has a showroom, visit it in person to check out what designs are available.
  • Experience and qualifications. Next, check how much experience the expert has at designing and constructing patios. Make sure you find a licensed builder to build your new patio.
  • Reviews and reputation. Does the patio expert come highly recommended? Check some reviews from previous customers and ask friends and family members for their recommendations.
  • Time. When can the patio installer start work on your project? How long will it take to complete?
  • Warranty. Check what warranties the patio builder offers on their work and the materials used.
  • Price. Contact a few patio experts to get quotes for the work you have planned. Compare quotes to find the best deal.
  • Service. When the expert comes to your house to provide a measure and quote, see whether they're someone you'll be happy to deal with. Are they happy to answer all your questions? Do they offer useful tips and advice?

How should I prepare for a patio installation?

There are a few simple things you can do to prepare for a patio installation. The first step is to think about the features you want in a patio and get plans drawn up. You'll also need to familiarise yourself with all relevant regulations in your area to determine whether you need to apply for any permits or approval. In most cases, council approval will be required.

The installer will be able to advise you about anything else you can do to get ready for a patio installation, such as preparing the site or ensuring that the builder has easy access to the construction area.

How long does a patio installation take?

Patios come in many different shapes, sizes and designs, so it's not possible to provide a 'one size fits all' time frame. The larger and more complicated the job, the longer it will take, while the materials used can also have an impact.

You'll also need to factor in the time spent applying for and awaiting council approval, which may take several weeks.

Do I need to be home for a patio expert?

You'll need to be home to provide access to the build site and help your chosen patio expert get set up. Once that's been taken care of, your patio installer will be able to let you know whether you'll need to be home for any other stages of the construction process.

Pros and cons of a patio service

Pros

  • Your new patio can be custom designed to suit your home and needs
  • Plenty of providers to choose from
  • These services offer patios in a huge range of styles and designs
  • You get the peace of mind of having your new patio designed and built by professionals

Cons

  • Costs can be expensive
  • Obtaining council approval may take a while

If you're thinking of adding a new patio to your home, research patio services in your area and what they can do for you. When you've found a few suitable options, compare quotes before deciding on the best company to add an outdoor living area to your home.

Frequently asked questions

Can I build my patio myself or should I book a professional?

If you've got the necessary skills to do so, you can build the patio yourself if you wish. However, you'll need to check what licensing requirements apply where you live before getting started, and make sure you get proper council approval when required.

If you're not experienced or confident on the tools, the safest option is to leave it to the experts. While it will cost you extra, you can rest assured that it'll be professionally built to a high standard.

What qualifications does a patio builder need?

If you're hiring someone to build your patio, make sure they're a licensed builder and fully insured.

Are there any safety measures to consider when building a patio?

Yes, there are many safety issues to consider. Not only must your new patio be structurally sound, it also must not affect the structural integrity of your home. Your patio will also need to comply with all relevant building codes. Depending on where you live, you may need to consider how it will stand up to severe storms or satisfy requirements for building in a bushfire zone.

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