← THE BACKYARD NOTEBOOK

Paver patio quotes: the surface is only the beginning

The paver color is easy to compare.

Paver patio, dining area and shaded pergola

The paver color is easy to compare. The excavation, base, drainage and finished elevations deserve at least as much attention when choosing a Jacksonville patio contractor.

Define the finished space

Measure the furniture and leave room to walk behind occupied chairs. Mark the route to gates, bins and the house. Ask the contractor to show where the finished surface will meet doors, steps and existing paving. A larger patio is not automatically a more usable patio.

Ask for preparation in writing

Request a description of demolition, excavation, base material, compaction, edge restraint and jointing. The appropriate detail depends on the site and intended use, so avoid copying a specification from an unrelated project. Ask who is responsible for dealing with unexpected buried material or unsuitable soil.

Think about water before pattern

Have the contractor explain how water will move across and away from the new work. Note existing puddles after rain and share photos. A patio should be coordinated with the drainage plan rather than added on top of an unresolved problem. Include cleanup and restoration around the edges in the comparison.

Put it into practice

  • Test the footprint with furniture.
  • Compare preparation and edge details.
  • Ask where runoff will go.

compare Jacksonville outdoor improvement companies to build a short list for your outdoor project.

PUT YOUR RESEARCH TO WORK

Find the right people for your project.

See Jacksonville’s outdoor company shortlist ↗