The Texas Association of Builders (TAB) announced the 2021 Star Awards finalists. For the third straight year, the program witnessed a record breaking 720 entries within the 162 elite categories. Projects and nominations were submitted by 120 companies from 60 cities across the state.

This year’s record number of entries once again showcases the exceptional talent within the residential construction industry in Texas. Our great State should be proud of its builders, remodelers, architects, and designers as well as its sales, marketing, and construction professionals. It is an honor to be recognized as a finalist among this group of distinguished leaders.

Texas Custom Patios is excited to be amongst such a stellar group of builders and remodelers. We are pleased to announce we placed as a finalist for three different projects!

TAB launched the Star Awards program in 1992 and it remains the only statewide tribute to excellence in the homebuilding industry. For the first time in program history, the Star Awards were judged virtually. The out-of-state panelists were tasked with selecting the best of the best by reviewing and evaluating the entries. 

Winners will be announced on July 15, the last day of the Sunbelt Builders Show™. 

The Washington Post recently posted an article, “The new American status symbol: A backyard that’s basically a fancy living room,” basically saying stackable plastic chairs and charcoal grills are out…

But loaded, supersize, decked-out deck with an outdoor living room, dining area, 54-inch grill, full kitchen, bar, two-draft kegerator, oversize island, massive weatherproof television, elaborate sound system and semicircular fire lounges are in.

What’s not to love? You’ll take all of it? But when? How long will it take? So many questions, right? Knowing when to start building your backyard patio is half the battle and then knowing who to go with is the other battle. Picking out your design, working on the layout, and buying furniture is the fun part!

Texas Custom Patios provides a turnkey custom design project. Our specialty is building projects that look original to the home, including patio covers, pergolas, screened porches, room additions, guest houses, decks, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and custom patios. We do all the fun stuff too, you know … oversized islands, elaborate sound systems and stunning fire lounges.

Fire features are great, but the most popular way to bring the heat to your outdoor living space is with an outdoor kitchen!

We can customize your outdoor kitchen area to have whatever you want:

• built in propane or natural gas
• large or small grill
• a sideburner
• refrigerator or wine cooler
• drawers and cabinets for storage
• running water
• ice maker
• kegerator… the list is endless

After you slice and dice outside, why not have dinner on the patio? Creating space for a dining table is perfect for entertaining family and friends.

Keep the party outside all night long, by adding a lounge space to kick back and watch TV, listen to music or just relax and look at your view!

And when you’re ready to come back inside, seamless transitions from outdoors to indoor are sliding to the top in popularity!

And when you take away the traditional doors and add seamless transitions to your home, it makes your indoor living space feel larger! Taking your holiday decor outside for some fun in the sun is fun, too!

We have all been stuck inside for too long! Everyone is ready to get out and enjoy a backyard get-together, so if you build it, they will come! Because after all, being outside is happy!

To read The Washington Post’s full article click here.

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!

If 2021 is your year to build your outdoor oasis, check out these designs that are dominating. No matter your style… we provide turnkey custom design projects. Our specialty is building projects that look original to the home, including patio covers, pergolas, screened porches, room additions, guest houses, decks, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and custom patios.

Many times our customers come into the building process with only a small idea of what they want to do, we are here to bring ideas to the table, think things through and of course, build it!

Outdoor kitchens remain ruling as king, but don’t forget… big things can come in small packages. Even if you only have a little space, an outdoor kitchen can still be built! Big or small, outdoor kitchens and dining space continues to be very popular.

For those that have a little extra space, freestanding retreats are popping up in many backyards! This type of “patio” is nice because it’s separated from the home and really gives off the feeling that you’re on vacation!

This space above has a gable roof and vaulted ceiling. We used a stained tongue and groove with cedar beams. The columns are wrapped in hardie and painted – they have stone bases that match the kitchen fascia and the fireplace. All of this stone complements the pool coping. The flooring is a wide plank stamped concrete. Two large fans were also installed to create a nice breeze on those hot days of summer and again, make you feel like you’re on vacation!

Retractable screens are sliding into this list because they are functional and look nice! Most homes have a “hot spot” at least once during the day from the sun’s rays, these types of screens make it easy to block the sun in a moment’s notice. They keep the area cool and also keep the bugs out!

Folding patio doors just might be the hottest feature on this list (save the best for last?)… individual panels give the homeowner complete control, so it can be as open or closed as one would like. The large amount of glass opens up the space for that indoor/outdoor living feel.

Now let’s talk budget … a typical patio cover could be in the $25,000 – $45,000 range.  Adding an outdoor kitchen and/or fire feature can add an additional cost in the range of $15,000 – $50,000. After an initial meeting, we give you an exact quote design. It is all based on the size of your project, how it is constructed, type of finishes and what all is included in your project. And before you know it… your sketch is built and you’re enjoying your outdoor oasis!

If you would like more information on how to budget for your outdoor living space, check out our budget blog, here!

Texas Custom patios of Houston and DFW has won a “Best Of Houzz” award for “Design and Customer Service” on Houzz®, the leading platform for home renovation and design. The custom outdoor living design builder was chosen by the millions of homeowners that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 2.5 million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

The Best Of Houzz badge is awarded annually, in three categories: Design, Customer Service and Photography. Design awards honor professionals whose work was the most popular among the Houzz community. Customer Service honors are based on several factors, including a pro’s overall rating on Houzz and client reviews submitted in 2020. Architecture and interior design photographers whose images were most popular are recognized with the Photography award.

A “Best Of Houzz 2021” badge will appear on winners’ profiles as a sign of their commitment to excellence. These badges help homeowners identify popular and top-rated home professionals in every metro area on Houzz.

“We at Texas Custom Patios are thrilled to be named as a Best of Houzz winner.  We take pride in our projects and are so pleased our designs have caught the eyes of so many Houzzers. And we always strive to treat our homeowners with respect and work diligently to provide great service,” said Katherine Douglass, co-owner for the custom builder.

“The Best Of Houzz awards are an emblem of trust and credibility for home professionals across the U.S. and around the world, and we are excited to celebrate this year’s winners,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of Industry Marketing for Houzz. “The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical need for people to feel comfortable before inviting pros into and around their homes, and the Best Of Houzz badge is a powerful way for pros to communicate the trust that homeowners have in their business. It’s just one of many tools on the Houzz platform that help pros to communicate their unique expertise, and homeowners to find the right professionals for their projects.”

You can see more of Texas Custom Patio’s work on Houzz!

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!

The Annual People’s Choice Award from the Houzz Community Highlights Home Remodeling and Design Professionals with Most Popular Designs and Top Ratings

Texas Custom Patios of Houston and DFW have won a “Best Of Houzz” award for Design and Customer Service on Houzz®, the leading platform for home renovation and design. The custom outdoor living design builder was chosen by the millions of homeowners that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 2.5 million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

The Best Of Houzz badge is awarded annually, in three categories: Design, Customer Service and Photography. Design awards honor professionals whose work was the most popular among the Houzz community. Customer Service honors are based on several factors, including a pro’s overall rating on Houzz and client reviews submitted in 2019. Architecture and interior design photographers whose images were most popular are recognized with the Photography award.

A “Best Of Houzz 2020” badge will appear on winners’ profiles as a sign of their commitment to excellence. These badges help homeowners identify popular and top-rated home professionals in every metro area on Houzz.

“We at Texas Custom Patios are thrilled to be named as a Best of Houzz winner.  We take pride in our projects and are so pleased our designs have caught the eyes of so many Houzzers. And we always strive to treat our homeowners with respect and work diligently to provide great service,” said Katherine Douglass, co-owner for the custom builder.

“This year’s Best Of Houzz awards go to an incredibly talented and service-oriented group of home remodeling and design professionals, and we’re proud to highlight the winners on the Houzz website and app,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of Industry Marketing for Houzz. “This award is particularly meaningful as it reflects the sentiment of the millions of homeowners in the Houzz community who are hiring home professionals for their projects across the U.S. and around the world.”

Follow Texas Custom Patios on Houzz for complete details of featured projects, custom ideas and more!

Click here for more details on this beautiful featured project in Katy, Texas.

Click here to discover details about this sprawling project in DFW, Texas.

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.