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Your Guide to Planning a Concrete Patio in Minnesota

outdoor concrete patio planning guide

Adding a concrete patio to your Minnesota property can add value to a home in several ways. While this kind of upgrade is a sought-after property feature because it extends the home’s living space, patios are also multi-functional outdoor spaces. According to a study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), patios scored second on the list of most-wanted outdoor features and fifth for the most-desired property feature overall.

Backyard patio ideas come in an endless range of shapes and styles, including outdoor dining spaces, open living rooms and sundeck patios. You can also choose from a few different patio surfaces, although concrete paving slabs offer exceptional durability and added value. This patio planning guide discusses the most important areas to consider for this home upgrade project.

General Patio Planning Questions to Ask

Before getting started, ask yourself the following questions to narrow down your plans.

What Is the Purpose of the Patio?

Do you want your patio to serve as an outdoor entertainment area, or is your heart set on creating an outdoor oasis that is primarily for you and your family? Would you prefer comforting features like a fire pit or water fountain, or would an outdoor kitchen be more useful?

Determining the patio’s purpose is essential for ensuring a sustainable layout. If you need to incorporate a fire pit, the patio surface must accommodate this installation. Figuring out the purpose of your new patio will help you determine the most appropriate layout, size and shape of the space.

Where Do You Want to Install the Patio?

Your new patio can be close to your home or at the other end of your yard. Knowing the primary purpose of the patio will help you decide the best location. For example, if you plan on using your new patio as an outdoor dining area, choosing a space close to your kitchen could offer convenience. Having the patio close to the kitchen makes it easier to carry dishes in and out.

But if you plan on installing a fire pit, building a patio further away might be best to prevent billows of smoke from entering your home. In contrast, if you want to create an outdoor lounging area by your pool, installing your new patio near your home might allow your guests to easily mingle across indoor and outdoor spaces.

How to Plan a Patio Build

With your goals clearly defined, you can address more specific decisions for your patio design in Minnesota with these steps:

1. Measure the Space to Choose the Right Size and Shape

Figuring out how big a patio should be can seem tricky. However, the patio’s purpose will help you determine an appropriate size.

For outdoor dining areas, the patio space must comfortably accommodate the size of the dining table and chairs. The same applies to outdoor lounge areas and outdoor kitchen spaces. Try setting up tables and chairs on the lawn where the new patio will be — this will give you a clear idea of how big the space should be.

Another factor to consider is yard size. If your yard is smaller, consider a patio size that won’t overwhelm the space.

2. Plan Around the Landscaping

Along with its effects on sizing, your current or planned landscaping layout will impact your patio’s size and design. While you can plan the landscaping around your new patio, visualizing your patio and landscaping goals can help. You might find that a modern, low-maintenance landscaping style will complement your outdoor living space. Or perhaps an abundance of greenery is more suitable.

side by side concrete patio comparison.

You can also incorporate landscaping into the patio surface. Leave space for plants that visually break up the patio’s design, and tie it together with the landscaping. 

3. Consider the Weather in Minnesota

The weather in Minnesota can be unpredictable at the best of times. Before you bring any Minnesota patio ideas to life, consider the weather. You’ll need to choose a patio surface that can withstand harsh winters, hot summers and the quick temperature shifts in between them.

Concrete is an excellent choice for Minnesota patios. Quality concrete patio surfaces can last between three and five decades. Concrete can withstand harsh weather conditions like snow, heavy rainfall, hail and extreme heat. In contrast, bricked patios may not last as long. The bricks can loosen over time and you will need to invest in ongoing touch-ups to keep the flooring neat and even. Concrete can also handle heavy weights, so you don’t need to worry about patio furniture or an outdoor kitchen damaging your new patio flooring. 

If you like the look of other materials such as wood, brick or cobblestone, decorative concrete can mimic these appearances through finishing options like staining, stamping, polishing and coloring.

4. Decide on an Enclosed or Open Patio Space

The patio’s purpose will also help you determine whether an enclosed or open patio is best. For example, if you’d like to create an outdoor lounge area, an enclosed space can help you enjoy the space even when it’s raining. On the other hand, if you’re planning on installing a fire pit, you will need an open patio design.

When it comes to enclosed patios, you can choose a sunroom design, screened-in porch, veranda or classic gazebo style. An enclosed patio can also protect outdoor furniture without additional coverings. 

That said, if you decide to enclose the space, you may need to obtain a building permit from the local municipality. A permit is typically required for new construction, remodeling and alterations. However, if you choose an open patio, you may not need a permit, as this is considered new flooring.

5. Work With a Professional Installer

Concrete patio construction is best left to the professionals. Even if you have an idea of how to mix and pour concrete, the appropriate mixing ratio must be precise to prevent cracks from developing on the surface. Beyond a durable, long-lasting patio surface, opting for professional services also ensures efficient installation. Expert services are covered by insurance and contractor licenses for additional peace of mind.

While you can tackle this kind of home upgrade project on your own, consider additional costs that can stem from a lack of contractor skills and equipment. Unfortunately, poor-quality patio surfaces can be costly to remove and replace. Ensure your contractor is qualified by asking the right questions before work begins. Professional services from reputable providers can deliver the highest-quality concrete patio planning and installation.

contact idcAutomatic for quality concrete patios

Contact idcAutomatic for Quality Residential Concrete Services

idcAutomatic has been serving homes and businesses in Minnesota since 1974. Our quality concrete services can help you create a welcoming patio space that can increase property value. 

Laying concrete is meticulous work — even a slight flaw can set into an eyesore. With our team of dedicated experts, you can rest assured your patio surface can last decades. We have developed a reputation for excellence, from superior customer service to high-quality concrete work. 

Contact us online to start building the patio of your dreams or speak to one of our courteous professionals.

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