A Summer Retreat on the Patio
June 2, 2021 Patio Design
We were recently featured in The Houston Chronicle for “How to Get Your Houston Backyard Summer-Ready!” A few tips and tricks from the professionals, read the full article here!
We were recently featured in The Houston Chronicle for “How to Get Your Houston Backyard Summer-Ready!” A few tips and tricks from the professionals, read the full article here!
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!
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)!
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 25K – Sunrooms would be more due to windows and inside wall finishes.
* 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 30K -35K.
*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.
* Why the 5K range in the cost?
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.
*A fireplace – whether wood burning or natural gas – will generally add about 15-20K 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 3-6K 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!
Click the image below to discover details about this American traditional covered patio in Spring Valley.
Click the image below to discover details about this traditional project in Friendswood.
Steven was a true professional to work with. He spent time going over the possibilities for our patio as we have an unusual roof line. He kept his word about when he would be at the house and when his crew would begin working. It was a pleasure to work with someone that was honest and trustworthy. We LOVE our patio, it is a new room in our home. I would use Texas Custom Patios again and I would recommend them to others. Our patio is beautiful!
We will get back to soon!