A great patio isn’t just a place to set out some chairs—it’s where your mornings start with a cup of coffee, where family and friends gather for weekend cookouts, and where you steal a few quiet moments at the end of the day. The best patios feel like a natural extension of your home. And perhaps most importantly: they function in a way that matches how you actually live.
A patio isn’t something you throw together. Without the right planning, materials, and construction, you can end up with a space that cracks, shifts, or doesn’t drain properly when it rains. As a trusted Johnston, IA patio contractor, we’ve built enough patios to know what works and what doesn’t.
If you’re ready to add one to your backyard, here’s what you need to know.
Step 1: Choose the Right Spot for Your Patio
Where you put your patio is just as important as how you design it. Think about how you’ll use the space. If you want an outdoor kitchen, placing it close to your back door makes transporting food and supplies easier. If you’re after a relaxing retreat, consider a tucked-away spot under a tree or a standalone patio with a pergola for shade.
Drainage is another big factor. A patio that’s built in a low-lying area of your yard can collect water, turning it into a muddy mess after a storm. That’s why professional Johnston, IA outdoor living contractors take grading into account. You want to be sure that water flows away from the patio instead of pooling on top or creeping toward your home’s foundation.
Step 2: Select the Right Materials
The materials you choose for your patio will affect not just how it looks but how much maintenance it needs. If you like a classic, clean-cut look, concrete pavers are a great choice. They’re durable, easy to replace if needed, and come in a variety of styles. If you want something more organic and timeless, natural stone like flagstone create a high-end look with unique textures and colors.
For homeowners who want a custom design on a budget, stamped concrete is a popular option. It can mimic the look of stone, wood, or brick while having a smooth, continuous surface that’s easier to maintain. No matter what you choose, the key is making sure it matches both your home’s style and your long-term maintenance preferences.
Step 3: Build the Foundation & Account for Drainage
A patio is only as good as what’s underneath it. If the base isn’t properly prepared, you’ll start noticing cracks, uneven spots, or loose pavers within a few seasons. A properly installed patio starts with excavation. The area under the patio needs to be level and compacted before any materials are laid down.
A stable base includes:
- Excavation & grading to prevent uneven settling.
- A compacted gravel layer to support weight and movement.
- A slight slope for drainage so rainwater doesn’t collect on the surface.
Cutting corners here might save time initially but is a costly choice that only leads to bigger headaches down the road. Your local Johnston, IA patio installer can help you to make sure these foundational steps are done right the first time.
Step 4: Customize Your Patio with Features & Add-Ons
The right features can go a long way toward turning your patio into a place you actually want to spend time. If you love to cook, an outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill and prep space makes hosting easier. If you want a cozy spot for cool nights, a fire pit or fireplace adds both warmth and ambiance.
Even small details make a big difference. Built-in seating around a fire pit frees up space, while a low retaining wall can double as extra seating when guests come over. And if the Iowa sun is too much in the summer, a pergola or covered patio keeps things cool while still letting in light.
Let’s Build Your Dream Patio in Johnston, IA
After finishing the design, installation is the natural next step. And as you might expect, expert installation makes a huge difference! That’s why we at Archadeck of Central Iowa use industry-leading construction techniques and high-quality materials to make sure your patio will stand the test of time.
Every project is backed by our Archadeck warranty. So once the patio is installed, you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing for sure your investment is protected.
If you’re ready to upgrade your outdoor space, we’re here to bring your vision to life. From choosing the right materials to building in all your favorite features, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.
Call (515) 203-8734 or contact us to get started with a complimentary design consultation.
