With a typical two-story home with a breezeway connecting the home to the garage, this home needed shade. It had a small patio area without any cover to it. A pool was also installed as a part of their backyard renovation, and the transformation is unbelievable.

The entire new backyard living room is about 675 square feet. We added a fireplace on one end that helps create a privacy wall and an outdoor kitchen on the other. The middle area was left open for a large dining table.

The kitchen is outfitted with appliances from Cunningham Gas, Expressions Home Gallery, and S.T.E.D. The doors, drawers, dry pantry, and outdoor fridge are RCS brand from Cunningham. The griddle is from Expressions Home Gallery, and the under-counter ice maker is from S.T.E.D. All three heaters are Bromic Heaters from Cunningham Gas. The beautiful counter is Taj Mahal Leather from Omni Surfaces, and the kitchen is faced with Nordic Silver split face stone from Keystone Tile that matches the coping on the pool.

The flooring throughout the project is Flagstone White 16X32 porcelain tiles. Above the ceiling is Smokey Bourbon pre-stained tongue and groove Fineline by Woodtone. The homeowner provided the beautiful lighting seen on the patio.

The fireplace that anchors the living area is a gas fireplace with black lava rock from Republic Fire Bowls, and the mantle is reclaimed red oak wood from The Reclaimed Wood Shop. The fireplace is also faced with the same Nordic Silver split face stone from Keystone Tile, and the hearth and seat/knee walls are honed Ivory Slabs from Legends Architectural Stone. The brick wall was slurry painted to give the new space an entirely new look.

If you’re looking to upgrade your patio, you may be wondering how it can increase the value of your home. The truth is, a well-designed and constructed patio can make a big difference when it’s time for your home to be appraised.

On a base level, patios add functional outdoor living space to your home. This is especially important in areas with nice weather, as potential buyers will look for ways to enjoy the outdoors. A spacious, well-equipped patio can also provide a space for entertaining, relaxing, and cooking.

In addition to increasing the amount of livable space in your home, a patio can also improve the appearance of your property. A well-designed patio can enhance the overall look of your home, adding to its curb appeal and making it more attractive to potential buyers.

A patio can also add value to your home by providing a place for outdoor activities and hobbies. If you enjoy grilling, gardening, or even just lounging in the sun, a patio can provide the perfect space to pursue these interests. This added value can appeal to families with young children or anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors.

Overall, upgrading your patio can be a great investment in increasing your home’s value. Not only does it add functional outdoor living space, but it can also improve the appearance of your property and provide a gathering place for parties and get-togethers. So if you’re looking to build a new patio, consider how it can add value to your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

There’s no better time to upgrade your patio than the new year. Whether you’re looking for a simple redesign or want to add to your current space, there are plenty of factors to consider. Here are a few tips on how to get started.

Beginning the Process

There are plenty of things to consider before starting the design process. Whether you’re wanting to know prices or the patio process timeline, we have you covered.

“What should I do before calling TCP?”

With factors like usage, family size, and weather all playing a factor in designing your patio, find out what to do before you give us a call.

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“How much should I expect to spend on my patio?”

It’s important to know your budget before beginning your process. Find out what factors make the difference between a $30,000 and $300,000 patio.

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“How long will my patio construction take?”

If you’re looking to have your patio completed in a certain time frame, it’s good to know how long the process is. Find out when you can expect your completed outdoor living space.

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Patio Design Tips

There are plenty of things that go into designing a patio. We’re more than happy to help you along the way, but if you want to start thinking about the design process, here are some great places to start.

“What style of outdoor lighting should I go with?

From spotlights to chandeliers and everything in between, there’s an outdoor lighting fixture to match your patio. Check out some of our favorite options.

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“Should my patio have a retractable screen?”

If you want a great way to stay cool and avoid bugs year-round, retractable screens are a great option for your backyard. Find out more about these patio game changers.

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“What kind of stonework floor goes best with my house?”

There are plenty of great options when it comes to patio floors, whether it’s stone, brick, or tile. Learn more about the pros and cons of each.

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Everything About Outdoor Kitchens

An outdoor kitchen can increase your home’s value and make it the perfect gathering place. From appliances to countertops, we have everything you need to know about your new kitchen.

“What kind of kitchen sink should my backyard have?”

An outdoor kitchen sink is a great way to add convenience and functionality to your patio. Learn about some of our favorite designs.

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“What countertop fits my kitchen best?”

There are many types of countertop materials, all varying in style, durability, and price. Check out a few of our favorites.

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“What appliances should be in my outdoor kitchen?”

From ice machines to pizza ovens, there are plenty of great outdoor kitchen appliances you’ll love. Learn more about these great options.

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All About Water Features

Water features are a great way to cool down year-round. If you’re looking to add one or already have one, we can help make it perfect for your new backyard.

“Which water feature fits best in my backyard?”

Whether it’s pools, ponds, or fountains, the perfect water feature is waiting for you. Learn more about each feature.

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“Should I get a chlorine or saltwater pool?

While both water treatment options have advantages and disadvantages, read our blog to learn more before making a decision.

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“Should I build a cabana or pool house?”

Nothing helps make your backyard an outdoor oasis like these two structures. Find out which one is best for your outdoor living space.

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With these tools, you’ll be ready to take the plunge and make your patio dreams a reality.

The holiday season is the perfect time to decorate your home for that warm, cozy feel. So why should your patio get left out? Let’s look at a few examples of homes we’ve worked on that each bring the Christmas spirit in their own unique way.

Texas Contemporary, With a Splash of Holiday Cheer

If you’re not looking to go all-out this year or want to keep most of the decorations indoors, a little can still go a long way. This patio cover in Flower Mound, Texas kept its warm and woodsy while still looking festive.

The classic Christmas tree is still just as eye-catching outdoors as it is indoors. Not to mention, the wreaths and added table decorations bring a lot to the table (pun intended) without overpowering the feel of the patio. With a grand fireplace to huddle around, this patio is ready for the holiday season. 

A Patio That Blends Indoor and Outdoor Decor

Just because you’re decorating for the holidays doesn’t mean you have to give up on your patio’s style. This modern outdoor kitchen does a great job of adding bits of Christmas throughout with poinsettias, ornaments, and wreaths. We also can’t forget the fantastic trees in full view from the spectacular windows or the trees on the outdoor table. This backyard is perfect for holiday gatherings and dinners.

Cozy Christmas Deck With a View

Needless to say, these halls are fully decked out. Everything from the garland above the lit fireplace, to the beautiful tree, to the Christmas-themed pillows are the perfect touch for the holiday season. Did we mention the stuffed reindeer plush and the mistletoe hanging from the lights? The only thing missing is a cup of hot chocolate and a classic Christmas movie on the TV. This patio does a great job of adding to its already cozy atmosphere with a few Christmas touches. 

With the holidays never more than a year away, take full advantage of your outdoor living space and decorate to your heart’s content.

Wanting to enjoy your patio to the fullest without worrying about the outside world? Here are a few benefits of building a privacy wall in your outdoor living space.

Privacy and Seclusion

This may seem obvious, but privacy walls are great for blocking out neighbors’ views. If your fences are short, you don’t want your neighbors looking in, or you want to relax in your own space without worry, privacy walls are a great solution. Many privacy walls also incorporate a fireplace or TV to add even more functionality and privacy.

Weather Resistance

Windy days can be a drag. If you’re in an area that gets a lot of wind and want to keep your hair in place, a privacy wall can provide a barrier between you and the elements. Not to mention, privacy walls also provide great protection from the sun, making summer days in the shade that much better.

Sound Barrier 

If you live next to a busy street, it may seem like your days of relaxing outside are over. Fear not, because privacy walls can be the perfect protection between you and the rest of the neighborhood. Not only does it block out outside sound, but it also helps block the sound you’re making.

Style

There are plenty of privacy walls to match your patio’s style. From wood to plastic to iron to aluminum, you’re sure to find a design that fits your vision. They can also be covered with various plants and flowers to create a secluded garden atmosphere.

If you think a privacy wall might be just what you need, let us know during the design process of your project. Knowing your wants and needs are important to the process and allows for more satisfaction with the finished product. With the versatility they bring, privacy walls may be the perfect addition to your patio. 

This home had a large pool in the yard and a very small covered area, but the homeowner was looking to upgrade the entire yard and create their own paradise.

TCP added a new patio cover along the side that includes an outdoor kitchen and fireplace. We upgraded the existing cover as well as added a pergola and firepit.

We added about 1000 square feet of new stamped concrete to the backyard. The new covered outdoor living area is roughly 435 square feet with a high-vaulted ceiling and an open gable on the end and along the front side. The ceiling is English Porter pre-stained tongue and groove from Woodtone. The outdoor kitchen was placed at the end and is also an L-shape to allow plenty of room for the 40” grill, sink, outdoor-rated fridge, and storage. All appliances RCS are from Cunningham Gas, while the counter has a raised bar top for seating on the outside and is Coffee Brown Leather granite from Instyle Granite.

We placed the fireplace along the side to help provide privacy to the yard. It is a custom-built gas fireplace with an insert from Perfection Fireplace, and all of the stone caps are Chiffon Moire Ashlar Natural White from Apex Stone. The fascia of the fireplace, kitchen, and columns are Blanco Chopped from Rock Materials, and the mantle is custom-stained cedar.  On the far side of the pool, we added a gas firepit. All stones and caps match the rest of the project, and the black lava rock to fill it is from Republic Gas Bowls.

To upgrade the existing patio cover, we changed out the ceiling to match the new cover and hung new lighting. To extend their space along the home, a new pergola was added. At roughly 185 square feet, this structure has a Hercules Pergola Cover from Cover Your Pergola to keep everything nice and dry underneath.

This backyard is now truly a place to Live it Out.

Picking between an attached and free-standing patio may be confusing at first, but both can serve different purposes for your backyard depending on your usage and the space you have.

Attached Patios

Attached patios, as the name suggests, are outdoor living spaces connected to the back of your house. There are plenty of factors to consider when designing your attached patio, including your price range and usage. Because of its close proximity to your home, attached patios are easier and are typically less expensive to run water, gas, and electric lines to appliances like sinks and grills. Other things to consider when choosing an attached patio are the roof lines and elevation of your backyard, as well as windows on the back of your home that may need to be worked around.

While it may seem like the easier option to have an attached patio, there are some circumstances where that may not be possible. Previously installed pools and uneven terrain may only leave room for a free-standing patio. Multiple roof heights and breezeway placement are also factors that may prevent an attached patio.

Free-Standing Patios

Free-standing patios are outdoor living spaces that provide an outdoor retreat just a few steps out of your backdoor. These are also commonly known as pool houses or cabanas, which we’ve previously discussed. Being in the middle of your backyard, most of these structures are shaded to keep you and your guests away from the heat. Both spaces can be fitted with a privacy wall, but you might find it more beneficial with a free-standing patio, depending on its location. However, being far away from the house means that adding water, gas, and electric lines can be more difficult. 

Regardless if your backyard has a free-standing or attached patio, both provide shade and great areas to spend time outdoors. The decision between one or the other all depends on the layout of your home and the configuration of your backyard. No matter which outdoor living space suits your home, we’re more than happy to help you achieve your patio dreams.

This home already had a wonderful pool in their backyard, but they wanted to add a patio cover with an outdoor kitchen and a small bathroom. The new structure would be off the garage and tie into the breezeway and existing patio cover to create a much larger L-shaped cover. The main challenge with this outdoor project was the tight space they had available to work with because of the existing pool.

The outdoor kitchen was built along the garage wall and includes appliances the homeowner supplied. The unique feature of the kitchen is the countertop pizza oven, which TCP created the custom masonry façade to hold. The stone used on the kitchen facia, vent hood cover and pizza oven façade is Nysa 3-size Z-pattern split face travertine mosaics from QDI Surfaces. The granite is Black Pearl from Daltile.

The flooring is Silver Versailles pattern travertine tiles also from QDI Surfaces. The homeowner was having issues with drainage, so TCP addressed that issue by adding additional drains in the driveway and at the back of the kitchen area.

The ceiling is finished with 1X6 V-groove pre-stained Scottish Ale by Woodtone, and we also upgraded the existing ceiling. TCP installed an electric screen shade in front of the kitchen and on the west end of the patio cover. This helps shade the areas during the late afternoons and early evenings when the sun is setting. Electric heaters were also installed in the seating area of the patio cover. Finally, we converted under-stair storage at the back of the garage into a half-bath with an exterior door.

This backyard is now everything the homeowner had dreamed of. From the open-air patio for dining or sunbathing to the new outdoor kitchen to the upgraded small existing cover, this is truly a backyard to be envious of.

You’ve deliberated and deliberated. “Should I do it?” “Is the time right?” “Will it be worth it?” After giving it some thought, you’ve finally decided it’s time to take the next step and start building your dream patio. 

What is that next step? Before you give us a call, there are a few things you should consider.

Price

What will the budget look like for this project? When you work with us, we’ll be able to give you an estimate of how much the project will cost, but it helps to go in with an idea beforehand. Take a look at our article where we talk about patio pricing.

Use

How will your outdoor living space be used? Is it a place for gatherings and parties? Is it a relaxing getaway for you and your loved one? Is it a perfect paradise for your pool? Once you’re able to answer this question, we’ll be able to give you ideas on how to accomplish this goal.

Weather

How hot does it get around your area? If the answer is “extremely hot,” it might be worth ensuring your patio has shade. Water features can also help you cool off, but nothing beats staying in the shade.

Materials

There are many types of stonework and patio materials to choose from. From brick to tile to sandstone, nailing down the style you want to see in your dream patio can help us make that dream happen.

Appliances

If you choose to build an outdoor kitchen, it’s worth thinking about what you’ll be using it for. Will it be predominantly for gameday parties and gatherings? Check out our blog on types of grills. Are you looking for an elegant-looking sink that is stylish and functional? Check out our blog on types of sinks.

Solving some of these questions before giving us a call will ensure your patio vision can be executed to the best of our abilities.

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!