Adding outdoor living space can be fun, but you risk making costly mistakes if you’re not careful. It’s important to proceed with care if you intend to build or install a patio in your backyard.
If you end up with a patio that doesn’t serve its function as it should, that means that you’ve wasted your time, money, and space. You wouldn’t want that, of course. For this reason, you should carefully design your patio before you even think of adding accessories such as retractable mosquito screen for patio. In addition to having a cozy additional area to relax or entertain guests, a patio will raise the value of your property and allow you to enjoy it for many years to come.
Having said that, let’s discuss the most common mistakes people make when designing their patio.
1. Not having enough space for the patio.
Many different patio design options are available, and the amount of space you have will determine the design you choose. Since they can fit fewer pieces of furniture, some people prefer smaller, more private patios. But some folks are compelled to have a smaller patio because their yard is too small.
A larger patio is a wonderful idea if you have the space, but if you make it too big, many places will be left unutilized. Alternatively, you may need to purchase more costly, larger furnishings. Because of this, it’s advisable to measure the dimensions of your space before making any final decisions.
2. Failing to install adequate drainage
One crucial mistake you should avoid is designing a patio without considering a rainwater drainage system. Any water that builds up on the patio could drip onto your home or furniture, among other unwanted areas.
Rainwater should flow off the patio and toward the grass and borders rather than the house when designing and constructing a patio.
A patio drain is a thin strip that runs the length of the patio surface; it will keep your house well-protected from the rain without compromising its aesthetic appeal. Alternatively, let the patio naturally taper off at a slant to allow water runoff.
3. Forgetting about the sun
Homeowners often make the mistake of not considering where the sun shines during the day, so it’s important to consider whether you prefer a sunny outdoor brunch spot or a place to enjoy the last of the evening light while sipping a cold beverage before deciding where to put your patio.
Take note of the sun’s path across your property and decide how you want to use it. If you want to place your patio where it will get the most sunlight, add a louvered pergola to offer a shaded spot when needed. Ensure your patio gets adequate sunlight and ventilation to keep moss off it.
4. Underestimating the power of lighting
A small addition, such as lights, can affect the functionality and fulfillment of a patio. Layering is key to a nice patio lighting design. Festoons and solar lanterns for accent outdoor lighting will add to the mood, and wall lighting is another practical option that can look good if you have pots on your patio. Consider placing spotlights in the ground to add elegance and light up the plants at night.
