2022… the year of no more Covid-19? … health and new beginnings? … possibly even a six-pack stomach, and not beer this year? Whatever it is, make sure your goals will bring you happiness! For our customers this last year, a new custom patio brought great joy and a new place to make memories. See gallery of featured projects here. If you love what you see and would like to get the ball rolling, there’s no time like the present.

One of the first things that most people want to know, is how soon will they be lounging on their new patio? Use the handy guide below to know when your custom patio project needs to begin in order to be completed by these commonly requested dates. Factors such as material supplies and weather prevent us from guaranteeing completion dates, but we understand your excitement and work diligently to meet a desired date. The guide below was created to give you a ballpark look!

First, determine when you want your project completion to be, then discover what month you’ll need to contact our office to get started. For instance, if you would like to sizzle in style in your backyard for Father’s Day, pick up the phone and call now!

When you call our office, we’ll schedule an initial appointment. After the initial visit, we’ll follow up with a proposal. Once you’ve selected Texas Custom Patios as your outdoor design-builder, we’ll begin the permitting and homeowner association process. This can take up to 90 days depending on the particular rules of your community. When the design has met all requirements, a simpler concrete and cover takes about four weeks to complete(including a kitchen adds a couple more weeks).

Give one of our outdoor-living specialists a call at 281-265-1994 in Houston, or 972-915-2727 in Dallas/Fort Worth. Here’s to 2022 with a view!

We enjoy working hard to create your dream outdoor oasis from start to finish! It starts with a few ideas and then from there it gets mapped out on paper, tweaked, and eventually custom built to plan! So you can imagine we get so excited to hear when homeowners love their new outdoor living space!

“I highly recommend Texas Custom Patios for any remodel project and design!! Our experience with Collin Jarrell in the design phase was great, as he helped us decide on the perfect layout and details for our project. The construction was managed by Rob, who was extremely responsive, was in constant communication with us, and ensured that the entire process went smoothly. From start to finish, this company is focused on high quality work and a great experience for their clients. The end result exceeded our expectations and I would definitely use them for all outdoor projects in the future. Thank you Colin, Rob and Texas Custom Patios!” ~TCP Customer

“We are overwhelmingly satisfied with all the great work Texas Custom Patios (TCP) did to give us the patio of our dreams. We realize the building/construction industry has a bad reputation for not responding or showing up for jobs, but we experienced none of that with TCP. Everyone from TCP, including all the contractors working on our project, were responsive, professional, and highly skilled in their jobs. We have watched the frustration our next door neighbors have had, and still are experiencing, working with a different company.

We are giddy (can we say smug?) with our decision to go with TCP!! :) We were absolutely thrilled with Collin Jarrell’s design work! We had several initial meetings with Collin to design our patio, in which he was responsive, patient and professional. As part of the initial consultation and quote, Collin created our project using online 3D software that we could see via Zoom calls. Other companies we talked to would not provide an online visual until after we signed the contract. Collin made changes real time and provided explanations and suggestions to give us a gorgeous patio. Collin has a great eye for designing patios! Collin was the reason we decided to choose TCP as our contractor.

Our project manager, Rob Baird, is great at his job. He moved our project along smoothly, even when dealing with delays due to COVID. Rob was patient and responsive to our (ok…mostly my husband’s) many texts asking for updates and status. We were very impressed with how well Rob kept track of the many moving parts…and were happy with his willingness to make changes when we wanted upgrades, or when we had a few hiccups. Rob was always pleasant, responsive, and very easy to work with. We already miss seeing him in our back yard!

We are truly delighted with everyone at TCP for making our patio building experience painless and pleasant. We really enjoyed meeting everyone who worked on our patio, and are humbled by the expertise and professionalism. We will think of TCP fondly while enjoying our wonderful new space for years to come.” ~TCP Customer

To see more of this project, click here!

There’s more where that came from, too! Please peruse our gallery on Houzz, we have over 100 “5 star ratings” from happy customers spanning Houston to Dallas!

Halloween costumes are meant to be scary, not dreaming about your outdoor patio! If you find yourself thinking about building, but are held back by budget, let us help you relax and take a few thing into consideration!

An enjoyable outdoor living space is a must-have for most people here in Texas – we are able to spend just about every day outside without too much trouble.  Of course it does get a little toasty in the summer, but with the right design and ample shade even the summer heat can be beat.  For many, the singular thing that holds us back when making big decisions is something called … moolah.  But with the right budget, a good plan and the perfect builders, your outdoor oasis is actually within reach!

Budgeting for your outdoor living space is actually easier than you may think.  We have built outdoor living spaces with just about every single budget in mind.  We put together a quick guide that will you have you well on your way to building out your outdoor space.  So get ready to start planning, building and living (outside)!

How to budget for your outdoor living space …

How big of an area is considered ample?

Whether you are wanting a covered patio, a pergola, a sunroom or a screened in porch about 300 square feet is average. If you go much smaller than that, you will feel cramped and will not have enough room for both a dining area and a sitting area. The cost for something that size would start around 35K – Sunrooms would be more due to windows and inside wall finishes.

What are items that would affect this budget?

* Type and configuration of your home – 1 Story homes usually run more because the roof tie-in is more complicated.

* Do you have concrete already? Having an existing patio or other flat surface will lower your cost… unless you want something more than a standard brushed concrete surface. Upgraded surfaces – stamped concrete, tile, travertine, stone pavers means your cost will increase.

* Type of columns – do you have any existing columns on your home? If so, you may want to match them – are they brick or stone? That will be an added cost because a standard column is wrapped with hardie board and painted to match your home’s paint color.

*Ceiling finish – Like the columns a standard ceiling is just hardie plank painted to match your home’s soffit. If you want a different look, you can go with cedar or stained tongue and groove, you will need to add some to your budget.

* Electrical matters – a basic project does include running electricity for recessed lights and ceiling fans as well as wiring for a TV and sound system.

So, what does a 300 SF project with some of the upgraded options cost?

* With additional items such as those listed above, your 300 SF project would start around 40K – 45K.

What if I want to add an outdoor kitchen? Several things need to occur …

*Size of the space – to have adequate space to accommodate the added kitchen area, we suggest an area that is closer to 400 SF. So, that is an added cost to build your covered area.

*A basic kitchen – this is a tough question – you can have a small, very functional outdoor kitchen area that is in the 8 – 10 linear foot area. To get lots of prep and serving space, you may want to consider something that is closer to the 14-15 linear foot option. Our kitchens include a custom built counter area with granite, stacked stone, brick, or stucco, stainless steel appliances (grill, fridge, storage). The 8-10 linear foot kitchens would start around 15-20K, the larger kitchen would start around 20-25K.

Can it be bigger?

* Absolutely! We have built kitchens that are as large as 20-25 linear feet.

* What really affects the pricing of your outdoor kitchen?

Many things affect that – type and size of grill, choice of granite, propane or natural gas, raised bar top, type of side finishes, among other choices.

What about adding a fire feature?

*A fireplace – whether wood burning or natural gas – will generally add about 20-25K to your project. Your choice of stone, is there going to be a mantle, and how big will the hearth be all play key roles in the cost of the fireplace.

* A fire pit – again whether it is wood burning or natural gas – will add about 5-10K to your project. The size, shape and type of stone plays a part in the variance of the cost.

So as you can see … a lot goes into the prepping and planning when building something to any extent, but it CAN be done!  Take notes, let us know how we can help and we look forward to building something beautiful for you, but whatever you do… don’t be frightened, save that for Halloween!

Improving your home can be both exciting and stressfull, but we try to take away the stress so you can focus on the fun. The red tape gets rolled out when you have to work with the HOA and since most areas require a permit or HOA approval for outdoor living projects, headaches can happen. Leaving you thinking, “is this even worth it?” The answer is YES! Texas Custom Patios will handle the headache for you, so all you have to do is be excited for your new custom outdoor living space.

Your project developer will work with your HOA and get approval for you. Just provide a lot survey to us and we will do the rest! If you live in a municipality that requires a building permit, we will handle every submission, inspection, and approval required. Depending on the location, this process can take between four and six weeks, so patience is a virtue!

Once we get the green light, the building process can begin and the fun is within reach! At Texas Custom Patios, we really get to know our customers. When you choose to build with us, you get your own project team who will get to know you, your goals, and your style, and will oversee your entire outdoor living project, from start to finish.

We also get to know your budget! When we say “exact quote,” we mean it. This quote is not an estimate, and there will be no surprise expenses during the course of your project. If changes or additions are made during the construction process, we will address those changes as they occur. If there are options you would like to see in the design process, your project developer may give you some pricing that addresses those options prior to signing the contract.

Schedule your free consultation today by calling our office (below) or filling out our contact form, here. We will set up a virtual appointment with one of our experienced project developers – after your initial appointment they may need to visit your home to gather additional information. If we can provide an outdoor living project that meets your budget, then we will create a proposal for you.

Not sure how to budget for your outdoor living project? Look at our dream patio budgeting guide for some ideas.

Contact us:

HOUSTON AREA   /   MAP

• (281) 265-1994
• hou@texascustompatios.com
• (281) 265-1996
• 11391 Meadowglen Ln., Suite B
  Houston, TX 77082

DALLAS – FORT WORTH AREA   /   MAP

• (972) 915-2727
• dfw@texascustompatios.com
• (214) 614-4742
• 8412 Sterling St., Suite 100
  Irving, TX 75063

Since most of us have spent more time at home in the last 12 months than ever before, we have a new appreciation for making a house a home. And because everyone plans to stay home more in the future, but reintroduce guests, most want some sort of outdoor space to entertain them. If you have been dreaming of improving your home, now is the time to do it, but it comes with a longer-than-expected wait time. It makes sense though … while remodeling activity continues to grow, so does project wait time.

Here’s what to expect…

When a homeowner calls us right now – we are anywhere between 3-4 weeks before getting to do an initial appointment with them.    Once we have done that initial meeting, it takes about 2 weeks to get a design back.  Once the design is approved and the contract is signed, we are looking at an additional 12-14 weeks to start construction.

Remodeling wait times aren’t just in Houston either, this stands for the entire country.

With more homeowners reaching out to construction firms, architects and interior designers to upgrade their homes, the wait time to start a new project is also on the rise.

If you look at the chart above, you’ll see that demand for construction services is strong, as the average wait time to begin a midsize project rose to 9.3 weeks. A year ago, the national average wait time was 5.4 weeks, meaning the average wait time is almost one month (3.9 weeks) longer than the same period last year.

-Houzz

Another thing to consider…

Cost of projects have gone up due to rising lumber and material costs.  Labor costs are also on the rise.  This is always subject to change, but it’s worth mentioning.

If you’re ready to move full steam ahead, contact us now!

What is a lot survey and why do I need one to build an outdoor living space? We get this question a lot and here’s why…

A lot or land survey is basically a graphic depiction of your property that outlines the legal boundaries and other features. You probably received one when you purchased your home. It is necessary for Texas Custom Patios to see your survey so we can determine what can legally be built on your property.

The lot survey will identify any easements, building setbacks, or other restrictions on your property. It will inform us if your home is in a flood plain or if there are any other special considerations we need to know in order to design and build your outdoor living space.

What if you can’t find your lot survey? There are several options – check with your local tax assessor’s office, they may have one on file. Another option is to get a survey done, there are several companies that specialize in surveying land and can get it done quickly. Surveys typically cost between $300-$500.

When Texas Custom Patios is building your outdoor living space, we will use the survey to file for permits through the city and to submit to your HOA for approval. This is done in order to make sure any new structures are built without crossing over into easements or setbacks on your property. We need this info to not only ensure we are not building inside easements, but also to draw your existing property in our software to allow for an accurate scale for the new drawings we present.

Once it’s all approved, then the fun begins and we can begin building!

One of the first things that most people want to know, is how soon will they be lounging on their new patio? Use the handy guide below to know when your custom patio project needs to begin in order to be completed by these commonly requested dates. Factors such as material supplies and weather prevent us from guaranteeing completion dates, but we understand your excitement and work diligently to meet a desired date. The guide below was created to give you a ballpark look!

First, determine when you want your project completion to be, then discover what month you’ll need to contact our office to get started.

When you call our office, we’ll schedule an initial appointment. After the initial visit, we’ll follow up with a proposal. Once you’ve selected Texas Custom Patios as your outdoor design-builder, we’ll begin the permitting and homeowner association process. This can take up to 90 days depending on the particular rules of your community. When the design has met all requirements, a simpler concrete and cover takes about four weeks to complete. Including a kitchen adds a couple more weeks. Watch this video to discover more about our design-build process. More questions? Give one of our outdoor-living specialists a call at 281-265-1994 in Houston, or 972-915-2727 in Dallas/Fort Worth.

VIRTUAL INITIAL APPOINTMENTS DURING COVID-19

We are now offering complimentary virtual consultations in lieu of an in-home initial visit. As we continue to navigate through this ever-changing time in our world, keeping our customers and employees healthy is our top priority.

If you’ve been thinking about getting an estimate, but haven’t had time to schedule an appointment, now is a great time to do that! Here’s what to expect during your virtual visit.

STEP 1: CALL YOUR LOCAL OFFICE TO SET UP YOUR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT:

HOUSTON: (281) 265-1994
DALLAS/FORT WORTH: (972) 915-2727

STEP 2: BE PREPARED

You will need a computer or tablet for your appointment (you will be asked to screen share). You’ll be virtually introduced with your one-on-one project developer and will be asked to email a few things:

• Have a date and time in mind to schedule the virtual visit (expect 30 to 40 minutes)
• A copy of your lot survey
• Pictures of the back of your home or area you are considering for remodel
• List of features you are thinking about (patio cover, outdoor kitchen, fire feature, etc…)

It’s helpful to know the different styles and features you like, so you are prepared during the virtual consultation. You can find many ideas by browsing our gallery, here. You can also explore ideas on our Houzz page, here.

STEP 3: VIRTUAL CONSULTATION

You will receive a follow-up call within 24 hours of your set appointment to ensure the date and time still works well for you. About 5 minutes prior to your appointment, you will be e-mailed a link that will allow you to share a screen with your project developer. You will get a phone call from your developer and will be asked to click on the link. Two important things to note here:

• You will be able to see their screen, they cannot see yours
• This is NOT a video call, so no need to do your hair

You will then have an open conversation about your wants, needs, obstacles and expectations. Again, please carve out 30 to 40 minutes for this conversation and have your questions ready! To help you as much in advance, click here for a list of frequently ask questions.

GOALS OF 1ST MEETING

-Review space

-Talk budget (budget blog, read ahead of time)

-Discuss a timeline (timeline blog, read ahead of time)

-Chat about design

STEP 4: VIRTUAL BID MEETING

There will be 7 to 10 days between your first virtual meeting and your second virtual meeting. At this meeting you will be shown the drawings and ideas created by your project developer.

These are just ideas and suggestions based on your prior conversation regarding what you hope to have built in the given areas discussed. Each and every project is completely custom, with measurements and ideas for your home only. You will also be able to view a multidemential rendering of your projected project as well. Click here for an animated version of a rendering.

STEP 5: START BUILDING YOUR PATIO

Once you have decided to trust us with your custom patio build, we get to work! We handle all permits and approvals from the HOA and put a schedule together to get your project going.

At Texas Custom Patios, we really get to know our customers. When you choose to build with us, you get your own project developer who will get to know you, your goals, and your style, and will oversee your entire outdoor living project, from start to finish. We can promise you that you’re in good hands and in a no pressure situation. We hope to hear from you soon!

Thanks to a robust demand in 2019, the outdoor living builder will double the size of its shade in 2020!

Texas Custom Patios, the premier builder and leader in outdoor-living designs for Houston since 2004, and in DFW since January 2015, will expand well past its immediate Mid-Cities roots in 2020.  While Dallas and surrounding areas have been dominating the business for the past few years, the demand for excellence in outdoor living style is growing exponentially in and around Fort Worth.  It is of the upmost importance to listen and serve the demand for the trailblazing owners of Texas Custom Patios. 

While they will continue their powerful presence in the existing neighborhoods of Dallas and a small area of Fort Worth, they are excited to now embrace the entire metroplex area.  This includes the communities of Aledo, Benbrook, Southwest Fort Worth, Crowley, Burleson, Mansfield, Grand Prairie, Cedar Hill and all of Arlington on the south side of the DFW area.  The custom builders will also focus their time in Denton, Argyle, Keller, Trophy Club, Southlake, Westlake, Northlake, Colleyville, Lewisville, Grapevine, Hurst, Euless, and Bedford.

Texas Custom Patios has been exceeding expectations by leading the way in design and build quality for outdoor-living projects.  The builder, a pioneer in custom design, is family-owned and operated, standing behind every bid with honesty and integrity.   After building more than 1,700 projects in Houston and DFW, it was only a matter of time before they decided to share their love for outdoor luxurious living by expanding. 

“DFW is a perfect market for outdoor living – the climate, spacious backyards and the lifestyle.  This area had explosive growth during the last five years that we have been here and we feel as though we are always playing catch up. With the massive demand for builds, we recruited and trained more great designers and project managers so that this year, we’re ready to meet the needs of this expanded area,” says Texas Custom Patios President Rob Douglass.  Complimentary quotes can be scheduled by calling 972-915-2727.  For more information visit texascustompatios.com  Follow @TexasCustom Patios on Facebook, @txcustompatios on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. 

About Texas Custom Patios They custom design and build everything from covered patios, outdoor kitchens and dining areas, fire features, poolside cabanas, pergolas, decks, sunrooms and more! Every project is custom-designed and built to enhance the home and complement the homeowner’s personality.  They offer personalized service and flexible payment terms. Each project is assigned its own project developer who stays connected to the client from preliminary design stage, project approvals, finish selections, hand-off to project manager, to project completion and clean-up, making it easy and convenient.  Texas Custom Patios is proud of their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and numerous accolades in the industry. 

There are so many things to be aware of while planning your outdoor living space that it can be overwhelming. Texas Custom Patios is with you every step of the way, but here are some things to consider when it comes time to build your dream covered patio.

Timing of your project… do you have a special event coming up? Or just want it done before summertime? Check out our timing schedule:

How much room do I really need? Great question… But you need to ask yourself a few more questions. What do you want to use the space for?

Do you want just a couch and chair to hang out and watch TV… plan on about 200 SF— you need room to move around the furniture but be placed far enough from the TV for the perfect view.

Do you want to have a small dining table as well (seating for 4 or 6)? Add another 100/150 SF. Or will you be entertaining more and need a table for more (8-10)? Make it another 200/250 SF.

What about an outdoor kitchen? Just make sure you have room to include a counter area with serving space and plenty of room for the grill master to move around. A good rule of thumb is to measure your indoor living room or kitchen or dining area and plan accordingly. Outdoor furniture takes up the same amount of space as indoor furniture. And you need to make sure there is space on the edges to keep everything dry.

When planning for your outdoor kitchen, you need to think about how much entertaining you will be doing or how you will be using your grill. If you are mainly looking to just grill for your family of 4, then a smaller counter area with limited storage and a small grill will work great. If you like to entertain and have people over, then you need to plan on having
the space available to lay out all the food (either food that you have prepared or dishes the guests bring). Make sure you have plenty of counter space for the buffet.

Lighting – how much light is needed? Once the sun goes down, it gets dark outside… make sure you have enough light on your patio. Can lights overhead (1 per 100 SF) and carriage lights on the columns are a good start. If you have an outdoor kitchen, lighting above the grill is
important so you can see how the steak is doing. Hanging a great chandelier is also a nice add not only for light, but a beautiful focal point.

There are many more things to consider, but this is a great start! Your project manager is there from start to finish, so you can enjoy the process and watch your dream patio become a reality!