If you’re looking to add a little extra entertainment to your patio, an outdoor TV is a great option. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for an outdoor TV:

What to buy

Although there are TVs made specifically for outdoor use, they’re usually more expensive than their indoor counterparts. A larger TV, around 55+ inches, is best for large gatherings or viewing from a distance.

Optimal Viewing Settings

The biggest challenge to overcome with patio TVs is glare. This can make watching shows or sports in the daytime difficult. Turn up the brightness setting on your TV, and if possible, look for backlight settings that’ll allow the TV to increase its brightness. 

Mounting Options

There are plenty of places to mount your TV for the best viewing experience. A good rule of thumb is mounting your TV lower than you’d expect. This not only eliminates glare but keeps your audience from craning their neck to watch. Swiveling TV mounts can also allow you to move your TV from left to right, depending on the time of day or furniture layout. Motorized mounts will also allow you to move the TV to your liking at the push of a button.

Keep it Covered

Unfortunately, most electronics aren’t able to withstand the elements. Luckily, there are plenty of tarps and covers that will protect your TV from rain or wind when you’re not using it. This will keep your TV in mint condition for years to come.

Ultimately, the best outdoor TV for your patio will depend on your specific needs and budget. Take into consideration the above factors and consider the TV options available. With the right TV, you’ll be enjoying your favorite shows and movies while relaxing on your patio in no time.

March basketball is on its way, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than with friends and family in the comfort of your backyard. So whether you already have a newer patio or are looking to upgrade, here are a few easy ways to ensure your outdoor living space is ready for hosting any big event.

If your patio is in good condition, simple cleaning and refreshing your furniture can do wonders. Clean your patio with mild detergent and water to remove any grime or dirt. If your furniture is looking worn, consider replacing it with new, comfortable seating options that will make the space feel more inviting.

Next, consider the lighting. Good lighting can make a big difference in your outdoor space’s ambiance and can keep the party going even when the sun goes down. Invest in some outdoor lighting fixtures, such as lanterns or string lights, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. For more lighting recommendations, check out our blog on patio lighting.

Another vital factor to consider is the grill. If you don’t already have one, invest in a high-quality grill for the best backyard experience. A good grill can make a big difference in the taste and quality of the food you serve. Make sure to stock up on charcoal or propane, and have all of your grilling tools on hand. For more grill recommendations, check out our blog on types of grills, or read our blog on mastering your grill.

Finally, don’t forget about the drinks. Keep your guests hydrated with cold drinks and plenty of ice. If you have a bar area in your patio, consider setting up a drink station with a cooler filled with ice and drinks. It’s also worth considering setting up a bar cart with glasses and mixers for making cocktails. For more recommendations on your outdoor kitchen, check out our blog on outdoor kitchen appliances

In addition to these tips, consider adding some personal touches to your outdoor space to make it feel special and unique. This could include adding some outdoor artwork, potted plants, or even a fire pit for roasting marshmallows.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to host the perfect tournament party in your backyard. No matter which teams you’re rooting for (or if you’re just watching for the commercials), you’ll be sure to have a great time with friends and family on your new and improved patio. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the games!

Patio doors are one of the first things guests see when viewing your new backyard. If you’re wondering which door fits your patio best, there are plenty of options to choose from. Understanding these options can help you make the right choice when choosing the best patio door for your space.

Sliding Doors

One type of patio door to consider is the traditional sliding door. These doors have two panels that slide back and forth on a track, with one panel remaining stationary while the other moves. This classic style is great for its ease-of-use and also doesn’t take up too much open space. Sliding doors can be a great option if you’re looking to maximize your view from the inside, but just like any other glass windows in your house, they require cleaning and maintenance for the best look possible.

French Doors

Another type of patio door to consider is the French door. French doors are hinged doors that open outward and often have glass panels extending the entire door length. This sophisticated style is great if you’re looking for a more traditional look and feel, and they’re often used to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. They’re also very energy efficient, with tight-fitting seals helping prevent drafts. However, they can be heavier than other options, requiring a bit more effort to open. They can also take up space, so the flow of the patio needs to be considered when using this style.

Bi-Folding Doors

Bi-folding doors are also popular options for patios. These doors have an accordion-like design, made from panels that fold back against each other when opened. This can be a great option if you’re looking to open up your space, since they can be folded back entirely to create a stunning and seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. They’re also very energy efficient and easy to operate, giving you more freedom to enjoy your backyard.

There are plenty of patio door options, each bringing its own style and function to your home, depending on your needs. Reach out to TCP, and we can help guide you through the process to ensure you’re getting the right door for your outdoor living space.

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.

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.

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.

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!

In 2021, Texas Custom Patios completed 200 projects with each one having their own story to tell, all of them custom-designed and built to look as though it is original to the home. While it’s hard to pick a fav, here’s a look back at some top picks from 2021! Click the link below each image for full details.