Go Gardens - Patio Knowledge Base

Patio Knowledge Base

how do you build patio steps on top of a concrete patio? I know how to make concrete steps for a patio but how do I attach the new steps ontop of the already existing concreate patio? Thanks.

My concrete patio has a noticeable slope is there a way to fix that without starting over? Our home has a 12 X 32 patio in the backyard and it has a really noticeable slope from the house. I know that you need some for water to run off but this is bad enough that when you are sitting on it you can feel the slope. Is there a way to fix this without tearing out the patio and starting over?

Will putting a concrete patio right next to my foundation be damaging to the foundation? I had a concrete patio put in last summer. They said they were going to be putting in the expansion joint that goes between the patio and the foundation on the house but when they were finished they didn't put it in and told me it wouldn't be necessary. Now after the thaw, (I am in MN), the patio top is chipping away because it shifted along the foundation. Is this going to cause problems for me? I am afraid my foundation may have been weakened by this.

Why is my beautiful concrete patio turning white, when I water my potted plants? We put in a large stamped concrete patio this year. We put quite a few plants in pots on the patio. When I water there is a white film left on the concrete. If it is mineral deposits from the water, how or can I get it off! And any ideas on how to prevent it from happening. Our patio would be empty without plants. so not putting them is not a option! We had the concrete put in professionally. It is colored stamped concrete. The contractor did seal it a day after he put it in. It is a brownish grey color, so the white really stands out. I do have my pots on rollers, , but I guess when the water drains, it sits in the low stamped spots, and causes the white spots. Also I have used store bought potting soil for all my pots.

What type of patio furniture do you reccomend for a roof top patio in los angeles? Hi, we would like to decorate our patio with furniture that lasts along time and can resist rain (when it rains in LA it rains like a monsoon) and the sun (they don't call it sunny for nothing!). Plus we are elevated up pretty high so wind is a concern too. we look forward to your suggestions, THANKS!

What is the best way to build/pour concrete or stone steps to a patio door? My darling hubby and I are planning on pouring a concrete slab patio. We have a patio door that exits to this patio and needs about a three and a half foot flight of stairs. DH and I are a little confused about the most cost efficient way to construct steps. We want something that will go well with the concrete or patio stones so I don't believe wood will work very well and we're not sure exactly how to set up a frame to pour steps, set brick steps or build a frame that we can disguise with patio stones and concrete slab treads. I have enclosed a few links to pictures for the latter of the options. Thank you for any help! Brick Stairs: http://www.tilesteve.com/Pages/IndPhotoPages/Patio/patio_brick_stairs.htm Patio Stone Steps: http://www.blackgranites.com/black_granite/images/landscaping/hummel_patio_and_stairs_2.jpg http://www.adcmason.com/stairs/stairs-Pages/Image31.html Concrete Steps: http://www.nitterhouse.com/masonry/products/specialty_products/superior_concrete_steps

Do I need to use a patio table cover during the summer? Are patio chair cushions really mildew-resistant? Or should I buy patio table cover and chair covers for my new patio set to use when I'm not using it?

how do u start an enclosed patio project? We have an open outdoor patio and we want 2 convert it in2 an enclosed patio. How do u start? Our patio measures 12x22 ft.

Can I purchase a sliding patio door with blinds between the windows? is vinyl the best to get? if I have someone install a hinged patio vs a sliding patio door like we have now how much harder is this to do?

I have a wrought iron patio set with 4 chairs & a table.There is rust on our patio cement,how do I prevent it? I understand after time rust will form on the patio cement underneath because it is wrought iron, but what can I do to prevent rust forming on our cement? I don't like the idea of artificial grass, etc.... the patio itself isn't rusted, but the issue is this. after time when it rains the rain drips off the wrought iron causing rust on my cement. how di prevent this.

New Aluminum Patio, Need to hang patio lights for ambiance, does anyone know what is the best way to do this? This patio is a 24 by 24 and would like to hang string lights. Does anyone know who to do this without damaging my patio. Patio is covered

How to clean patio flags that have been covered in drywall? We have had a conversion in our utility room but the builders have left our flags a dirty dusty white. It seems like a layer of white powder is stuck to them. I have used Jayes patio/driveway cleaner (neat) and after leaving for 1 hour has not done anything. I have even tried normal household bleach, but nothing has worked. Any ideas on how to return these white flags back to their original grey? Thanks.

What are some good plants for a small patio? I also dont have a lot of time to care for lots of plants but would like to have a pretty patio to go sit on and relax. I live in Texas if that helps and the patio is a ground floor patio about a 6' by 10' space and I have a small couch and 2 chairs out thair as well.

My patio is made of 4x4 concrete slabs with wood in between. The wood is rotted. How can I repair it? The patio is 12x15. The wood is rotted and the edges of the slabs are worn. Can the wood be removed and replaced with something else? I want to eventually paint the patio so the repair needs to look better than the old rotted wood.

How do I repaint patio chairs that have those vinyl strips on them? I have a patio set that I would like to repaint a different color. The table is easy but the chairs have those vinyl strips across them to support the chair cushions. Can I remove and replace them or do I just have to paint over them and hope for the best?

Who do I contact to put in a new concrete patio? My old patio is not doing it for me anymore. We are putting a door from the master bedroom to the patio and will need to have steps built so I figure this is the time. I now have an ugly painted concrete pation with a bad slope (towards the house) and would like a stamped concrete patio, but cannot figure out where I find someone to do this work. Thank you for any help or further information. I am at a loss! I live in Sonoma County, California. How much would I expect to pay for demolition and installation of a 500 square food stamped concrete patio?

How can I install an alumimum pergola onto my concrete patio without drilling into the patio? My pergola is alumimum and my patio is stamped concrete. We do not want to damage the patio so we are trying to avoid drilling into it to hold the columns, any other suggestions?

I want to build a patio out of pavers. How do I make it about 6" higher than current cement slab? My current slab has settled about 8" and I want the new patio to be about 6" above ground level. What prep do I need to do?

How do you get rid of flies from a semi-enclosed patio? At any given time when I come out onto my patio in the afternoon, I have quite a few flies swarming around. There is no refuse on the patio -- only a couple of chairs, hanging plants, and a BBQ. Nothing that I think would attract flies. They aren't swarming around anything specifically, either, so I think that they might just like the semi-enclosed nature of the patio as a way to get away from the breeze??? Does anyone have any ideas as to how to get rid of them? If not permenantly, at least for having BBQ's and such? Do Citranella candles work for flies? Thanks in advance!

How do I train a dog to stop messing on the patio? We have two small dogs and a dog door in our kitchen. They are great about never messing in the house, but one of our dogs has decided he would rather mess on the patio than in the lawn. How can I "patio-break" my dog and get him to start doing his business in the lawn again so we can enjoy our patio without having to wash it down every day?

How long should I let my new cement patio dry for? I am curious when I can start walking on my new cement patio that was finished being poured this morning at 10am Pacific time? When is it safe to put "patio furniture" on it and such?

How do I create a patio (with brick or stone) on the side of my house where the ground is slopped? I have about 6 feet of space between the house and the fence and I want to create a little patio or sitting area out there. There is nothing but dirt right now and there is a good 1 foot difference between the hight of the ground at the house and the height at the fence. What is the best method for flattening the ground, then paving over with stone or brick? And should I leave some slope for drainage purposes? Any other drainage issues to consider?

When you alter your wooden patio does it bring down the value of your house? My boyfriend just cut out a piece of our wooden patio to plant grass for our dog. The wooden deck is not original to the house, it originally came with just dirt. Does cutting the wooden deck to put in grass bring down the value of the home?

Patio door installation, generally how much does it cost? I am getting a new patio door, sliding glass installed. Generally how much should it cost for the price of the door, and the installation?

How to anchor a glass patio table to my lawn? Have a heavy iron patio set with an umbrella stand that weighs 30 pounds. Problem: when it is a little breezy the umbrella tips the table over. The umbrella is secured properly and the table is on a flat even surface. Any ideas before my glass table is ruined?

Ways to cover a screened patio from the rain? I have an outside patio area that is covered all around by screens but when it rains everything gets drenched! I want to put a nice comfy couch and a grill but I'm worried about ruining it with the rain. I want the entire area covered so I can enjoy it even when it rains. Any have suggestions? I want something inexpensive. I can't do anything drastic because I'm renting.

The wind blew over my patio furniture table top and shattered the glass, how do I go about replacing it? I have had the patio furniture for about 8 years.

What are some fragrant winter patio plants? I live in zone 9 (Houston) and would like to make my patio full of very fragrant plants. Of course, that means they would need to be in pots. Since winter is arriving soon, I need plants that bloom/survive in winter. Thanks!

No sun gets to my patio. What are the best native California plants to plant in containers? I have a lovely, large patio...except that it gets absolutely no sun. I would very much like to grow some native plants as a container garden - maybe even some herbs and vegetables. But I don't even know where to begin to find out what plants will work in complete, total shade.

Poo on the patio problem ~ There is an animal using our patio as a toilet: How do we stop this from happening? We have no idea what the animal is, but the offending material is formed, black and has traces of white. It is always in the same area of the patio and has been happening for several weeks now.

Where can I find a certain type of patio brick to make bookshelves with? I looked up patio brick on google, and only come up with the little solid blocks for flooring. I once purchased patio brick that is square with cutout sections on it that is perfect for making homemade bookshelves. Please help. Thanks in advance Also, you would only make a wall with this brick, not to be used for flooring.

How to remedy flaking slate tiles in outdoor patio? My patio is covered but the outer rows of the tile get rain and some swimming pool water. These rows of tiles are deteriorating (flaking) and even turning to mud. When dry the surface is about a 1/4 inch down from rest of patio. Not sure if I can repair existing tiles with sealant or if they need to be replaced? If sealant is the answer, what prep do I need to do?

How high can a front patio be without a railing? Just moved into a brand new home and the front patio is 2 to 2.5 feet above the ground and the builder has not installed a railing. Is one required at this height in the Toronto area?

How can I replace the pier blocks on a patio cover? I have patio over a slab that has pier blocks holding the post. The blocks are cracked, what is the best way to replace them without taking down the whole patio?

How do you remove rust from patio furniture? i have iron patio furniture and it is rusting...how do i remove the rust and how do i keep the rust off.

What do you decorate an apartmant patio with? I want to decorate my apartment patio, with plants and flowers. I don't really know alot about plants and flowers. There is some sun on my balcony during the day but not alot, it is covered. I wont have a problem watering them everyday but I don't need some plants that require ALOT of care. Maybe if yall could just tell me some names of plants, any good places to get them, like plant stores and what not. Thanks a bunch.

How much does a stamped concrete patio add to the value of my home? It's estimated to be a $5,000 job for a 15 x 17 patio. Will it add that much to the value of my house?

Where can I buy a wood patio swing with canopy and side tables? I have a wood patio swing with a metal "A" frame that has a canopy and built in side tables, unfortunately the wood has cracked after 10 years of use. I'd love to replace it with a high quality contemporary model but haven't been able to find a stylish replacement. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

What is the best way to build a stone patio? I want to build a patio made of flat stone in my back yard. I'm just wondering what is the best base for the stone, and what I should use to fill the spaces between the stones like sand or maybe morter. I also want to know what I should use for the perimeter or border of the patio

How do I restore rusted iron patio furniture? My mom has this great iron patio furniture that has, over the years, rusted and I'm interested in fixing them up for her. I'd like to be able to do it as a mom/daughter project. Any ideas?

How do I cover a concrete patio with pea gravel in a style similar to the pathways in Parisian parks? I have visited parks in Paris that have compacted sand beneath gravel. Can this be done directly on top of an existing concrete patio? Will the existing drainage be adequate?

How can I prevent my patio furniture cover from blowing off? I have a patio set (table and four chairs) on my deck and I put a canvas cover on it. It's pretty heavy and durable, but it keeps blowing off on windy days. Any tips for keeping it from blowing off? I guess I could put huge rocks on top of the table or something, but I think that wouldn't look too attractive. Thanks!

Can anyone help me with my patio furnature problem? We have white plastic patio furnature/ lounge chairs that surround our pool. Each year during the winter we bring them in and store them in our basement. This year they have turned a rusty yellow. Has this happened to you before and how do you clean it off?

How can I build an inexpensive patio with cabana? I want to build a patio and small cabana in my back yard, large enough to hold a table and chairs, and maybe a grill. However, I want to do what I can on my own without paying thousands for someone else to do it. I want it to look nice but not necessarily expensive. Are there any books or ways to go about this? Thanks!

Is it difficult to install french patio doors, or should I have them installed? Replacing my sliding glass patio doors with French doors, but the installation costs more than the doors! (Which includes the frame) Is it hard to do it myself?

How can I keep birds from pooping on my patio and lawn furniture? I have a nice patio and nice lawn furniture but everyday when I got out to sit, there is bird poop all over my patio. Any suggestions on keeping the birds away?

How do I replace my sliding patio door? My patio door has been shot with a b-b gun, spider webbing the outside portion of the 2 pane glass. I need to replace just the sliding portion of the door unit, and I am not totally sure how to remove the sliding door and replace with new one. Where is it possible to buy just the sliding door and not the whole unit? Estimate?

Why are the leaves on my patio tomatoes turning yellow and drying up? I have a patio tomato plant that I've had for about 1-2 months now, and its been doing great -- lots of fruit that's growing well. The plant has always had a handful of yellow leaves at the bottom, which i understand is pretty normal. However, the past week or so the yellowing has spread further up the plant (bottom 1/3 ). The leaves are developing a mottled yellow pattern at the outermost leaves first and then moving further in towards the middle of the plant. Once they turn yellow they start to dry up. There are no brown spots. I have fertilized twice with an all purpose fertilizer 15-30-15. I usually let a little water sit in the draining plate underneath the planter -- am i overwatering? Not enough sun? They're in a window that gets indirect sun all day and direct sun from about 8-10am. Thanks!

How do I measure sunlight for a patio garden? I'm going to try a patio garden this year. I have a tall pine tree next to my patio so I don't know which corners are shaded or sunny. Are there any trick as how to measure sunlight aside from sitting in my patio all day long?

How do I install a decomposed granite patio? What is the appropriate depth of the decomposed granite and do I need to use base rock? Should I use a stablizer or mix it with Concerete? Ideally I would like the patio to be solid and have concrete like feel. My main concern is that drainage will be an issue.

How do I remove paint from cement patio to have prepared for tiles? We are considering laying tiles on our patio, but it has been painted and we have been advised to remove the paint first, we would like this as a D.I.Y. to cut costs. So how do we remove the paint and with what?

How to prepare soil for a concrete patio? I am planning to have a concrete patio poured at my new house. How can I be sure the contractor is properly preparing the "underlayment" before pouring the concrete? I know that a certain amount of dirt should be removed (about 8"), that 3/4" gravel and fine gravel should add back about 4" when compacted, and that there should be a pre-soil treatment as well as a vapor barrier installed before the rebar goes down, but what else should I be sure gets done before the 4" thick concrete gets poured? Also, what PSI rating should the concrete be for this type of application? I am in the Southern California area, in case weather is a concern.

What type of paint should I use to paint an aluminum patio set? I need a paint that will hold up to chipping and fading in a wet climate for an outdoor aluminum patio table. I want it to match some chairs that were purchased from a different set.

What type of outdoor/patio furniture requires the least maintenance? We have a new patio and would like to purchase comfortable furniture that can stay out in both sun and rain. Is there a type of patio furniture that will not rust or rot or discolor when left outdoors uncovered?

How much does it cost to refurbish teak patio furniture? I have been asked to refurbish my neighbors teak patio set (1 octogonal table and 4 chairs w/slats). I have refinished loads of wood furniture before but never teak. I know how to clean and seal it but just want some kind of a ball park figure on how much I should charge.

What to do about patio cushions and rain? First time homeowner and first time with a real patio. I was graciously given a patio set with chairs, etc. and they have cushions that are not waterproof. Short of taking them inside or covering them every time it rains, are there any other alternatives? Such as something I can spray on them to waterproof them? Thanks!

Can you just cover a rock aggregate patio with other flooring for a new look? I would like to have a new floor for my patio. Can I cover the present material with something else - stone, tile,brick, etc.? The material on there now is called rock aggregate and I would like to know if other materials will adhere to it or if it would need to be removed.

There is a black beetle in my apartment patio, should I be concerned? I hate bugs and I saw a black bettle sqirming around my small apartment patio. I ran inside and looked it up on the net. Now I am freaked out thinking it's a carpet beetle, and I have a dog door the dogs use to go in and out and I don't want the beetle coming in and laying eggs. What should I do? The beetle hid somewhere now I can't find it.

What is the maximum allowable span for a beam on a patio from one 4x4 post to another? My patio is 9' wide x 17' long. I have a beam in the middel and want to redo the patio with 2 beams instead of 3 and ake out the middel beam. Is this possible?

how do you make a patio with cast in place concrete? I saw an article last year in a magazine,with a patio with irregular shaped pieces of concrete that looked like flagstone. Then grass grew in between the (pavers).The article said the pieces that were approx. 3' x 3' and they were (cast in place). What does that mean? Could I just dig areas in my lawns and pour in concrete to make a "flagstone" patio?If so how deep should they be,How do I prepare the ground underneath? Should I add anything to help strenghten the concrete. Thanks ham m But I don't mean any kind of paver you can buy. What i want to do is make my own quite large sections of concrete right on the ground surface, by digging out say 4-6 inches of earth and pouring cement in the area to make an irregular shaped "flagstone". I want to end up with a patio that is approx. 15' x 20', I also would like to leave 3" spaces between these pavers for grass to grow

What is best for my back garden a chimenea or a patio heater what gives the most warmth? Have a north facing garden and can be quite coldat times looking to buy an outdoor heater cant decide on a chimenea or a patio heater? How long does the gas last in these patio heaters?

How can I naturally keep flies and mosquitoes away from my patio? I live in Charleston, SC, and it is hot and humid here all the damn time. My patio gets direct sun for most of the day, but it is still always damp. The flies and mosquitoes love it. I don't want to buy a nasty bugzapping lamp, burn a bunch of citronella candles, or spray pesticides which may make my dogs sick. Are there natural ways (maybe certain plants or types of mulch or ground cover) which will keep these bugs away from the patio?

What plants are good to grow in a Patio Garden? I am starting a Patio garden. I'm really excited about it. I have laid everything out and all i need are the flowers. I really want to plant veggies but i think i am going to wait till next spring so, I want to plant some flowers. Any suggestions on what type of flowers to plant?

What are some good plants for a Texas apartment patio that faces North? Looking to dress up the apartment patio a bit, but unsure of which plants would be best for our situation, any help would be appreciated!

Where can I custom order hard to find patio doors? I live in a townhome which the association requires that patio door replacements must conform with the rest of the units. After conferring with a number of window stores, it appears that my patio door (circa 1996) is no longer produced. So essentially, I am in need of a custom solution... made to order patio doors. Help!

How to ship patio furniture and a grill? I was given a 5 piece patio set and a gas grill from a family friend. The only problem is that it's in WV and I am in GA. Any ideas for how to ship them down? Thanks!

Any ideas for a quick and easy to build patio? I have an old, very old (50 years), wooden patio that is rotted and termite ridden. I've been tearing it down, piece by piece, but what should I build in it's place. Something easy, withstanding and has shade for the animals. Any ideas would help.

how do i replace a sliding patio door? i need to replace the current vinyl sliding patio doors with new doors. I have a new patio door in mind (crestline) & I need to switch the doors out asap. I need step by step instructions.

How do I get rid of flies in my patio? I have a outside patio where we eat in the summer. I want to keep away flies but I don't want to use fly sticks or traps because they stink and look gross. Please help me I am having a BBQ soon.

what do you call these outdoor patio lights? I am trying to figure out what these lights are called. I know they were used alot in the past to light up car lots and as christmas lights in the 50's. I still see them today in outdoor restaurant patios and at firework stands. They are full size light bulbs on a string. I would like to purchase some for my outdoor patio but I cant find where they are sold.

Can an opening window be retro-fitted into a patio door without removing the frame? I want to have ventilation in the room during the night without leaving the door open. I don't want to have to remove the whole patio door frame assembly. I would like to just remove the sealed glazing unit only and replace it with two units, (seperated by a bar), to enable me to have one fixed window below and one opening window above.

what are some good tips when pouring a concrete patio? Looking to pour a 15' by 15' square concrete slab as a patio. need some tips/ help in preparation. Thanks.

Is there a patio table made with an extension? For a deck, I am looking for a patio table that is small but is able to put in one or two extensions in for company. I have not seen one.

The glass on my patio door shattered, but nothing was thrown at it, was it a defect in the glass? The patio door is doubled paned. The glass on the outside was not bothered, but the glass inside the house was the one that shattered. The patio door was filled with either argon gas or krypton gas. Before the glass started cracking, there was a loud explosion.

What are the immediate benefits of having a patio built up? What do people do this? This question is being posted just for the purposes of a research on what homeowners get in return when building a patio around their houses.

What is the best way to put down patio stones? My backyard is half patio, half grass/dirt...its a small backyard when we have enough stones we are thinking about putting down the basic ( 2ftx21/2 ft) stones down. My question is how do I make sure its all even, and that the grass underneath does NOT grow back? Do you have any ideas, or suggestions from your own experience on how I should do this?

How do I restore and old wrought iron patio furniture set.? I've recently purchased an old wrought iron patio set and would like to restore it to a new-looking black finish.

Cement patio and steps estimate ...? I am looking at putting a bid on a new house and I need to have some idea as to how much it would cost to repair/replace a patio and 10 steps that have buckled due to slow erosion. Patio is 15x15 ft, 4" thick Steps are 4 ft wide, 8" rise and 10" deep Steps go down from this patio to another larger patio that has no damage. there is no retaining wall at present, and I am thinking that one should be put in place ... rebar/mesh on patio and retaining wall - any thoughts here? Erosion process appears to be very slow, the buckling occuring over the course of 12-15 years. Yet, I am thinking that stabilizing the area a bit will also protect the foundation of the house which currently does NOT show any cracks. Would appreciate it if you could help me think thru this job and come up with a cost estimate that includes Materials and Labor. I live in St Louis, MO. Thanks

Help! New concrete patio has slabs that are lifting/heaving & cracked!? We had a concrete patio installed in Aug.of '07 by a BBB accredited contractor that has been in business since 1941. The co. wanted to install the patio earlier than our requested date (in Sept.) due to another job. We asked again & again if the weather in Aug. would cause probs. with the curing of the patio, etc. They said no, just keep it wet. So they installed the patio the week that just happened to be the hottest that summer w/ temps above 100 & had a severe thunderstorm as they were finishing two of the slabs that are now cracked.They told us to "water it" everyday, which we did--again though this was a very hot week & they didn't cover it. Now the patio is lifting/heaving in sections & cracked on two of the slabs. The contractor came out & wants to blame it on a downspout where the water runs next to the patio & said he won't do anything unless we do the driveway too! We think it's b/c the gravel underneath wasn't compacted enough or the curing wasn't done correctly! Help! We need help with how to handle a job by a contractor that we are satisfied with, as well as your opinion on the problem. Thanks! The should say "that we aren't satisfied with". His opinion is different from ours and wants us to have more work done for him to consider correcting it?

Patio - edging for sloping slab patio? I just had a slab patio laid, but because the patio is level with the path around the house and the garden slopes up in the middle, the patio slopes into it, with the result that there is a four inch (or so) lip of earth at the far end. Any ideas on how to tidy it up?

Patio Problem? I have a patio positioned between my house and garage. The garage floor is level with the patio, I purchased a crate of slate and would like to tile the patio or use pavers over the old concrete but am afraid that water will seep into my garage due to the patio being higher any idea other than tearing out the old concrete?

patio pavers? What the easiest and cheapest way to lay down patio pavers so that grass doesn't grow up through the cracks and the patio looks nice? Where can I find patio pavers for a good price?

Patio Problem!!!? My husband, Ray, was attempting to build a patio for the first time. He bought 100 cement blocks. Laying them out in a pattern, he discovered the chosen area was too small. He stacked the blocks against the house and cleared more space. The next day Ray put the cement blocks back down, only to find that the ground was too hard to keep the patio level. He ordered a truckload of sand to be delivered the following morning. Again he stacked the 100 blocks against the house. Observing all this, our next-door neighbor asked, "Ray, are you going to put your patio away every night?"

Patio pavers? What the easiest and cheapest way to lay down patio pavers so that grass doesn't grow up through the cracks and the patio looks nice? Where can I find patio pavers for a good price?

Patio paver question? Right now, I do not have a patio. But, before I go forking over money to build one, I want to know something. Here is the situation: when it rains, the water in our yard does not run down to the easement in the back of the yard, it just sits in there in the yard. When you walk through it, you sink down about a half inch or so. If the yard is that flat, will I have problems building and maintaining this patio if it is made with pavers that has a sand and gravel base? Or will I need to address the yard grading issues first? Or will the patios sand and gravel help drainage problem? Oh yeah, I live in S. Indiana if that helps.

Patio decorating.....? I want to spice up my backyard and patio. But we don't really have much extra cash. it it a huge square 50ft X 30ft. and the patio itself is completely open, and concrete measuring around 25ft X 15ft.... We are wanting to somehow pull off a moraccan feel with maybe some water features.... The yard is pretty well empty except for a shed in the far back corner, and the kids swingset at the far back fence line... Our back yard is completely closed in with a wooden privacy fence.... There are no plants or anything else in the yard what-so-ever. On the patio we have a grill, 4 chairs and glass table, and a hot tub. The yard is rectangle with the longest going from the back door straight to the back.... if this helps at all... So ideas please for ways of doing it very no/low cost... include what to use and in your opinon where you would put it, and maybe where to get the stuff, and the estimated cost... Thanks a bunch for everyone who is willing to give opinions... :) ok let me add, the yard including patio is 50 long and 30 wide, while the patio is 25 wide, by 15 long.... the patio and yard are both rectangles, but they way they go is opposite.... as far as length and width... I hope that makes some sense... lol...

patio question? Here goes another patio question -- by the way, thanks for answering my other patio questions. I have decided on the contractor that I want to install my patio, but he said that I can choose and purchase my own pavers. Does anyone know of a wholesale place, or at least a distributor that is very reasonable. I have a unilock book, and I am interested in (Yorkstone) pavers and (Stonehedge} pavers. Anyone out there with some answers???? I live in the western suburbs of Chicago. Thanks

Patio Furniture or anything for Sex?!? I just saw this comedy show about a Woman who wanted to buy patio furniture for her deck. But the hubby is really stubborn and likes to pick the patio stuff of his choice. So then she gets the idea that she'll tell him that if she gets to pick the patio funiture of his choice, then she'll have any type of sex with him. But he's gotta agree with the furniture he picks. Do you think this is morally right? I just think that it's wrong. Personally, I found the show funny, but I still think that she uses Sex as a tool of bribery. What do you guys think? Is this wrong?

Ouch! Brick patio pavers are too rough!? We recently bought a house that has a new brick patio (done by the last owner). The patio looks nice, but the brick pavers have a very rough texture, and its uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. Each paver has straight, sharp edges (similar to "wirecut" bricks?) And the tops feel rough too. Even worse, the mortar in-between the bricks is low, so the brick edges stick up and hurt your toes when you walk. Is there a way to get rid of the sharp edges without losing the traction? (The patio is near a pool, so traction is important.) Would I sand the patio, or add more mortar? Any advice would be much appreciated! Thanks!

rug or patio? Hi everyone I am thinking for a backyard solution as all we have back there is grass :-/ I was planning on making a patio but as I don't have the "most handy husband" in the universe..lol I would have to do it myself (he would help, of course) So I saw at a patio set picture at Canadian tire a rug that they put it straight on top of the grass and so the patio "sits" on the rug...that way I would not have to build anything..genius :D The problem is, I'm searching for outdoor rugs and the things I'm finding doesn't look right as they are very "carpet like" Does anyone know what's the rug I'm talking about? What you guys think is the best solution? Going for a rug or suck it up and build a patio? P.S. keep in mind we are working toward moving from this house in no more than 2 years, hopefully in one year :-) Thankssssssssssssss yeah I agree with your point...lol I thought about it too... 2 points 1. I am thinking on buying a gazebo that has the coverage for rain 2. It rarely rains in here :-/ so freaking dry

Outdoor patio... PLEASE HELP!? My ugly patio? I need some ideas. We moved in and there was the concrete pad and some red pavers. We have since tried to spruce things up a bit, but the patio remains a problem. I have considered: Pouring concrete: $800, plus ripping out old stuff Putting in deck: $ ???, work, Az is hard on wood I guess. Laying flagstone: $ ??? but I think it would be at least $1500 Grass would die because of the shade. We are on attempt #3 of grass between patio and planter! Pea gravel: $150?, easy, but my baby eats it, it isnt so pretty, and it hurts your feet. But, not out of the question. Any ideas? Check out my picture. Westfam.org Thanks!

Temporary Patio? I am looking to create a temporary patio over a grassy area to place a patio set; while I save for a concrete one. I am worried about the chair legs sinking in the ground. I have seen one "patio pad" online (parpool). Has anyone seen any others? Can I use an outdoor rug? (I know either way the grass will die)

new patio & 2 Black Labs? I am getting a new patio built onto my house this week and i also have 2 black labs ... they aren't neutered .. and they are always peeing on tees & my old wooden front steps (before the new patio) .. . i don't want them to start peeing on my new expensive patio so what can i do so they won't ruin it?

Which patio roof type is more expensive? I have a deck and connecting patio in my backyard. I so badly want a patio cover or screened-in deck with a ceiling fan. However, I am on a tight budget. Are vinyl patio covers more expensive than the standard roof type (the roof that matches the house's roof)? Will adding screen make a huge difference in price? Thank you...by the way I live in Virginia.

Patio restaurant in Hamilton, Burlington or Mississauga? Hi I want to take my boyfriend out for dinner in a patio restaurant to celebrate summer and my new job. Looking for a place where the food is good, two can eat under $100 and there is a patio seating area. Any suggestion/webpages will be helpful. Cheerios

patio questions? I want to hire someone to build a small patio for me, There are so many options out there -- brick pavers, poured concrete, stamped concrete, stone pavers, etc. I live in the Chicago area, and am wondering if anyone out there has any advice for me. I know that I do not want brick pavers, but other than that, I`m lost. I have the choice of a sand base, cement base, etc. Also what questions should I ask the contractor, in respect to cost etc. I need to have the ground excavated also, and am wondering if it would pay me to have each part of the job individually itemized. I have waited a long time for this patio, and don`t want to make any costly mistakes. Help!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks

Patio Design Ideas - Where To Find Building Plans For DIY Patio Design? Please suggest some good-n-easy sites for patio design.

Patio ideas? hey there, so we moved into a town house recently. It is 3 stories, so we have two decks, and than where the basment is we have a patio which is just a cement square. lol, anyways, my room is in the basement, so my mom said i am welcome to do what i want with the patio. I was thinking of putting in some flowers in pots, since i can't plant any since it's shared property and maybe getting a table? What are some other things that a 15 year old could do to make it look better? i was going to do vegetables, bt i might not since it's right off the highway kind of.

Patio Windows? I have a patio with screen windows, and the rain blows in and puddles on the floor. I want to put furniture in my patio and actually use it, but I don't know how to keep out the rain any way but spending a lot of money to put in windows. I already have awnings, but they don't keep the water out. Any suggestions?

Brick paver patio installation help!? Over the winter we had water come in through my brick patio into my basement. This happened because the patio was not pitched properly. The condo association came out and ripped up the paver's and repaired the leak. They will not pay to put it back together and we can't afford to hire someone. It was a circular pattern. My neighbor has the same patio so I can look at his for the design. I just don't know where to start. Do I have to do anything before I start laying the pavers down? It is packed with dirt already. HELP!

Deck or Patio? What is most cost effective and just plain better looking /long lasting.? We are going back and forth on this. One day we vote patio the next day its deck. I always loved patios. I think of decks as needing constant maintenance. Pressure washing, staining, treating. But my husband always had decks. He thinks patios are difficult to put in. And the idea of concrete being possibly used even as a base is terrible to him. Even pavers seem too sloppy. And of course, cost is quite important. Any ideas? Want to have this done by fall. Help!

Advice for making a patio with paving stones? I plan to put a patio in my garden. I have some paving slabs which are about an inch thick. I have never done this kind of thing before and I need some advice. The top of the patio ( near the house ) will be higher that the bottom ( by the lawn ) so I need to slope the patio slightly. I'll try to get an even slope by putting in some pegs with string connecting the 2 to show the angle. I'll make some sort of spacer to have an even gap between slabs. The area I'm looking to patio has had slabs resting on it for a few months, so it is compacted soil. Can I just go ahead, put some sand down, lay the slabs then cement in the gaps? If not, why not? I must cut a few of the paving stones. Can I use a big angle grinder for this? Will it make a lot of mess? Do I have to cut through the whole slab or is it like a wall tile where you only need to cut through partially then it will break cleanly somehow? Any ideas or advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Patio Doors? We have ordered new patio doors. The whole unit was delivered today including two doors in the middle and a panel at each side. The little windows on the panels open outwards but the doors will open inwards. Is this correct or do patio doors normally open out into the garden or, does it not matter?

Condominium Gutters = patio damages? Here is my question. My condo maintains the gutters to my condo. Over the past couple years, I notice my patio slab has cracked horribly near my back door. The slab is actually hollowed out under some parts. I then realized during a heavy rain that I had a waterfall coming from my gutters. I talked to a patio guy and he agreed that this type of wear and tear could only be caused by overflowing gutters. Is it unreasonable for me to expect the association help pay for the repairs? It is the condo associations responsibility to maintain the gutters which are a common element. The patio is a limited common element that I would normally repair on my own. BUT, the repairs are needed because of the poor gutters. I should add, that the Association has told me that the patio slab is not typically covered for repairs. The issue I have is that the gutters (a responsibility of the Association) were clogged for some time. The patio sunk 3+ inches near my foundation due to the lack of drainage.

patio gas heaters - really irresponsible and environmentally unfriendly? i bet quite a few people that drone on about global warming and carbon footprints use one of those gas patio heaters to heat their patio and er, well, the atmosphere.......there must already be enough to be adding significantly to global warming. Shouldn't they be banned?

patio door screens? hi im looking for the retractable patio door screens to keep animals out of the house while i have my patio door open, i cant afford much so any sites anyone might know of, i live in uk. thanks.

PATIO way of conducting meeting? Did anyone of you hear about PATIO (Its a Concept) way of conducting meeting. PATIO stands for.....? Does anyone has any documented article or image pdf or any realted material... Thanks. Gaurav.

My dogs smelly pee patio problem.? My 2 year old, nutered, 15lb male dogs pee has a very strong smell and is using the patio for bathrooming. My aunt lets him out their while Im at work cuz they cant control him on leash, only I can. But now the patio smells very bad and theirs a strip of dirt along fence with some planet planted their and are now deying from the pee. I tryed watering to dilute it and I keep area very clean but cant get ride of pee smell and I want to save the my aunts plants. Theirs that carpet grass on concret part of patio he's peed on and My aunt like that grass stuff but Its smell like pee now. I want to buy new grass carpet for it but Patio will still smell like pee. What should I do?

patio landscapeing? I have a square stone patio flanked on two sides by the house, and a 6`fence on the the other side. The patio is on the west side of the house, so gets a lot of afternoon sun. The fence is on the south side. I would like to soften the look of the wood fence, and do some plantings on the west end. Any ideas for me? help!!!!!!

My ugly patio...? My ugly patio? I need some ideas. We moved in and there was the concrete pad and some red pavers. We have since tried to spruce things up a bit, but the patio remains a problem. I have considered: Pouring concrete: $800, plus ripping out old stuff Putting in deck: $ ???, work, Az is hard on wood I guess. Laying flagstone: $ ??? but I think it would be at least $1500 Grass would die because of the shade. We are on attempt #3 of grass between patio and planter! Pea gravel: $150?, easy, but my baby eats it, it isnt so pretty, and it hurts your feet. But, not out of the question. Any ideas? OH! Please look at it first: westfam.org oops! Sorry. You can answer it anyway, since maybe someone with kids knows a great idea....

Patio considered apartment or common area? Are patios considered part of the rented apartment or a common area? I understand that landlords can take and throw away stuff left in a common area but cannot come into your apartment and take and throw away tenant's stuff. What about the patio? It's only accesible from my apartment. The manager went around putting notices on people's doors that if people don't remove stuff she doesn't like from their patios, she'll have it removed by contractors. Isn't that illegal?

Will a concrete or pavers patio solve my drainage and basement leakage issues? Here's my situation: In a major rain storm or after a serious period of rainfall or snow melting, some water leaks into my basement through the back of my house. I put down some sand graded away from the house, covered it with plastic and woodchips, and although it cut down on water in the basement considerably, I still get puddles a few times every season. It I put a patio, graded away from the house, up against the back of my house, would that likely prevent the water from coming in through that back wall? If so, which patio should I get: a concrete patio or a pavers patio? Since it's up against the entire back of my house, it'd be relatively big, and yes, price is an issue. Would a pavers patio provide the water-tight seal that I'm looking for, or would it still allow water to get into that ground and, eventually, into my basement?

What is proper patio etiquette when living in a townhome/condo when you have talkative neighbors? I live in a condo/townhome, and the patios are pretty close together. I'm excited because I recently purchased a patio set and grill. But, I'm shy and I really don't know what to say to my SUPER friendly, talkative neighbors when they come out onto their patio.. Do I have to have a conversation with them? How do I politely brush them off..

HELP! My brick patio has an ant problem!? My brick patio has an ant problem. I've pulled all the weeds that pop up between the bricks, I've tried vinegar, I've tried this powder insecticide that just left the patio a mess (and more importantly, didn't work!) I don't even want to sit out there 'cause I'm freaked out ants will crawl up the patio furniture. Can somebody recommend something to use on them that will get rid of them? I don't have them in the house (yet), but I'm thinking that as close as they are to the house, it's only a matter of time! These are some excellent answers and I thank you so much for them. Being a new homeowner is overwhelming sometimes! I guess I just expected that the stuff that I bought would work right away! I will try to be patient! Thank you so much!!!!

I created this patio ad for this construction company and I would like to have some opininons about it.? First I have a photo of a patio on top of the ad, then this headline: You will love this addition. Then this text below: A well-planed patio design plus and affordable, top quality installation will enrich your outdoor life while expanding the surrounds and increasing your house value. With more thatn 25 years of experience in the landscape and construction business, we offer a remarkable patio selection at competitive rates. Okay, I need some opinions about grammar and headline impact. Thanks in advance.

Cat on my patio.? I have a huge cat on my patio (I live on the 2nd floor). I called animal control and they took the crying cat off my patio and just set him down right outside my door. Well needless to say, the cat hopped right back on my patio. How do I get him to go?/ Help please he is driving me crazy! Unfortunately, I am not really a cat person. I don't have a trap or a carrier or anything like that. I'm actually kind of afraid of cats and wouldn't want to handle it. But would never harm an animal.

Laying a Stone Patio - Impact on the home foundation? We recently moved to a new house and we have decided to build a patio may be 15"x15" close to the house foundation. I have decided to do it myself, though I have never done these kind of things before. Pretty much every instruction says to dig the ground to about 10 inches and use pebble stones and sand for foundation before I layer the stones.. My question is if I do this is this going to affect my home foundation if water goes down through the cracks between stones and the edges into this 10 inch layer... I don't want any potential damage for the foundation due to this and having to deal with warranty issues (we have a 10 year foundation warranty)... Is this something that I should worry about? Should I think of building this patio may be a little away from the foundation. My second question is I have sprinkler heads close to the foundation and if I build a patio, then I have to move these sprinkler heads out. How would I do this? Please give me details....

Help For Concrete Patio Slab......? There is several layers of concrete paint on my large patio slab. I'd like to make the slab look good. I tryed at one time to sponge bricks on the slab with a brick patio paint kit. Didn't like the look. Has anyone tryed the paint flakes from Behr? If so, which one and with what paint color did it look good? Also, what is a good affordable tile that can be used on a patio slab? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

My patio was partially removed while the neighbor next door was building their house. What rights do I have? I own part of a property that used to be 1 unit but was split into 2. My house on one side and the other side was just a garden. There was a common tile patio that extended from my lot into the other lot. The other lot was purchased and they are now building a house on this lot. Some of the tiles were removed to put in a retaining wall along the lot line and because of the irregular pattern (not in a straight line) there are parts of my patio that are now missing along the edge. My question is do I have the right to request that this be fixed by the neighbor or is the repair on me? Are there any real estate law articles I can reference? My property is in Alameda County in California.

slate patio estimate? i'm thinking of putting in a slate (bluestone) patio and am wondering if anyone could give me an idea on what it might cost to have it done (here in NewJersey) vs. doing it myself... The patio will be set in a dry mix- no mortar and would be roughtly 10x14 typical, simple (cheapest option) bluestone rectangular patern. thanks for any help you may have. -thomas

My patio and walls has turned green? I went out onto my patio this morning and have noticed that the patio and walls in the garden have turned a mossy green and I have tried to sweep it and it makes no difference, is there anything I can do to get rid of this?

wood patio shade? Looking for a patio shade to replace an old bamboo shade over my patio. Would like to replace it with wood slats that are secured together Looking for some kind of wood patio shade to put over an existing metal frame. Used to have a roll of bamboo shade over it. Would like to replace it with some kind of wood like redwood slats that are secured together. Not a pergola.

flagstone patio? What is the best material for building an outdoor patio? In terms of ease of installation as well as price? I plan to build an above ground pond next to it that will be just high enough to still easily view while seated on the patio. I have used concrete pavers to build up around a pond before. I think maybe brick will look nice next to flagstone. Our house is white with black shutters. Color suggestions for stone/brick?

Laying patio stones question? I'm going to attempt to lay a stone patio in my backyard. I've killed the grass and will soon level it with sand. When laying the patio stones, do I have to make a stone border first? Or can I just start laying them at one end and work my way to the other?