If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your backyard, an easy DIY patio is a great place to start. Not only will it add value to your home, but it can also provide you with a comfortable outdoor space to enjoy with family and friends. Building an easy DIY patio doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, you can do it on a weekend with just a few simple tips and materials. Here’s what you need to know to get started:
1. Decide On the Size and Shape of Your Patio
Before you start building your DIY patio, you first need to decide on the size and shape of the space. Size and shape may depend on the amount of space available in your backyard and your personal preferences.
If you have a smaller backyard, it might be a good idea to go with a smaller patio. This will help make the space feel more functional and user-friendly. Alternatively, if you have a larger backyard, you might consider using a larger patio that takes up more space.
As for the shape of your DIY patio, there are many different options. Square, rectangular, and L-shaped patios are all popular options but don’t be afraid to get creative and go with a unique shape that fits your backyard space.
2. Choose The Right Location
When planning to build a DIY patio, choosing the right location is vital. The perfect spot for your new patio will depend on several factors, such as privacy, sun exposure, wind protection, and proximity to your home. Once you’ve selected the perfect location, it’s time to start planning your project.
There are many different ways to build a patio, so it’s important to research and figure out which method is best for you.
If you’re unsure where to start, there are plenty of tutorials and guidebooks available online or at your local hardware store. Once you have a plan, it’s time to gather the necessary materials.
3. Get The Necessary Materials
Before building your dream patio, you need to obtain the required materials. Below is a list of materials that you will need to build a DIY patio:
- Cement – To create the foundation for your patio, you will need cement. To determine how much cement you will need, you will need to calculate the square footage of your desired patio area. Once you have determined the amount of cement required, head to your local home improvement store and purchase enough bags of cement to complete your project.
- Gravel – To add stability to your patio, you will need to add a layer of gravel on top of the cement foundation. Again, use the square footage of your project area to determine how much gravel you will need to purchase.
- Pavers – The type of pavers that you use for your patio project will depend on the look that you are going for. There are many different types and colors of pavers available, so take your time in choosing the right ones for your project. Generally, you will need 1 paver per square foot of patio space.
- Sand – To fill the joints between your pavers, you will need to purchase sand. Play sand or masonry sand both work well for this purpose.
- Polymeric Sand – This is a specialized type of sand that helps to bind the pavers together, preventing them from shifting over time.
- Edging – To give your patio a clean, finished look, you will need to install edging around the perimeter. Metal, plastic, or stone edging all work well for this purpose.
For most DIY patios, you’ll need basic supplies, such as heavy duty tarps to build patio awnings. If you’re not sure how much of each material you need, it’s always a good idea to buy a little extra just to be safe. Once you have everything you need, it’s time to get to work!
4. Start Building
Now that you have gathered all of the necessary materials, you are ready to begin building your patio! Follow the steps below to build a basic DIY patio:
Step 1:
Excavate the area where your patio will be located. Be sure to remove any grass or other vegetation from the space. Use a shovel or rent a small bobcat excavator from your local home improvement store if necessary.
Step 2:
Level out the excavation area so that it is nice and flat. Use a tamper or rented plate compactor to achieve this.
Step 3:
Install your edging around the perimeter of the excavation area. Be sure to drive the edging stakes into the ground far enough so that they will be secure.
Step 4:
Begin adding your cement foundation, starting with the corners and working your way out. Use a trowel to spread the cement evenly as you go. The thickness of your foundation should be no more than four inches.
Step 5:
Once the cement foundation has been laid, wait 24 hours for it to cure before proceeding to the next step.
Step 6:
Add a layer of gravel on top of the cement, using a rake to spread it evenly over the surface. The thickness of this layer should be no more than two inches.
Step 7:
Next, it’s time to add your pavers! Begin laying them from one corner of the patio and work your way out. If you are using interlocking pavers, be sure to fit them together tightly as you go.
Step 8:
Once the pavers have been laid, fill the joints between them with sand. Use a broom to sweep the sand into the joints until they are filled.
Step 9:
Finally, apply polymeric sand to the patio’s surface and use a push broom to work it into the joints between the pavers. It will help bind the pavers together and prevent them from shifting over time.
Allow the polymeric sand to dry for 24 hours before using your new patio!
Enjoy Your New Space!
After all of your hard work, it’s time to sit back and enjoy your new patio. Add some furniture, string some lights, and invite your friends over to enjoy the space. With a little planning and some hard work, you can easily build a beautiful DIY patio.
