How to Choose Among Patio Builders
If you have an existing patio that’s more than a few years old, you may be noticing how small it is, how cracks are forming, or other issues. And if your home doesn’t already have a patio, you’re likely thinking about how to choose among all of the Maryland patio builders out there. LiveWell Outdoors has some basic tips to help guide you to the patio builders who are right for your project.
1. Ask for Recommendations for Patio Builders
The first thing to do is to ask friends, family, and coworkers for their recommendations for patio builders. You can also ask if they know who to avoid. Chances are, you’ve spent some time on patios you admire. Ask those folks first who built their patio. Once you have a few company names, it’s time to start your research.
2. Check Their Reviews
You already have some top choices for local patio contractors. Now, go online and read their reviews, both on Google and social media.
Keep in mind most people who do reviews are either very happy with the finished product, or very dissatisfied. But if the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, that’s a good sign. Does the company respond to both positive and negative reviews? That’s a good indication of how responsive they are.
3. Visit Their Websites
Now it’s time to check out the patio builders’ own websites. How long have they been in business? (A company doesn’t last long if they don’t do quality work, or have terrible customer service.) Do they have a good portfolio of their patio designs? Do they explain their process clearly? Make sure they are licensed.
If you call or fill out a contact form, pay attention to how quickly they get back to you. You want someone who is responsive, and good at communicating.
4. Schedule Consultations
By now, you may have ruled out a couple of companies. Schedule consultations with your top choices and remember to …
5. Ask Your Prospective Patio Builders a Lot of Questions
Whether it’s a virtual consultation or an in-person consultation, now is your chance to ask prospective patio builders all of your questions.
It’s helpful if you have a written list so that you ask everyone the same questions. Make note of their answers. Ask about their process and what patio designs they have available. Other questions to ask include:
- Which material suppliers do they use?
- When can they start working on the project?
- How long the whole process will take?
- Do they offer clean and seal services after the patio is installed?
… and anything else you want to know.
A good patio builder will have reasonable, well-thought-out answers to your questions, or they’ll let you know if they need to get back to you on something (and then do just that).
6. Get a Professional Design
The next step will be to get a professional design – even one that you have to pay for – because it will take into consideration all your site conditions, i.e. topography, drainage, etc.
Once you’ve received the design, you’ll need to review costs as they relate to your budget. Think about whether you plan to implement the entire design all at once or use a phased-in approach. How will either option affect your budget and timeline for completion?
7. Sign the Contract
Once you decide on which patio builder to work with, you will need to sign the contract and make a down payment. The contract should lay out the payment schedule. This is also something the builder should have brought up during the consultation.
Once you’ve signed the contract, you will be given a scheduled start date. Be prepared for some noise and mess, lasting until your new patio is completely installed. Once your new patio is in, you may have to wait a few days before using it. Your patio builder will have the details.
Some Words from One of Our Satisfied Clients
Of course, building patios is one of the things we do well at LiveWell Outdoors. But, don’t just take our word for it. Here’s a recent testimonial from one of our very satisfied clients:
I was just looking out on my patio because the weather has beaten up the umbrella in my dining area and thought of you. If it hadn’t been for you, I wouldn’t have the patio that has brought me and my family so much joy. It reminded me of how you “counseled” me through the process and made me feel like I was your only customer even though I know you had so many people with whom you were working. I pray that you and your family are doing well through this pandemic and hope that once this is over you will come by to see how things look. Take care!
Dream It. Build It. Live It.
If you’re interested in working with the Outdoor Living experts at LiveWell Outdoors, simply schedule a consultation. We can make it virtual as needed. Don’t let another year go by before you build the patio of your dreams!
