Imagine sitting in your backyard, surrounded by lush greenery. You're sipping on a refreshing drink and feeling the warm sun on your skin. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind, and it's all thanks to your new patio.

Patios are a great way to add value to your home and create a space where you can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. But with so many different patio builders to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start.

In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about building a patio, including:

• What tasks patio builders can take care of
• The most common patio problems
• The cost of hiring a patio builder
• How to hire a reputable local patio builder
• The benefits of patios
• The best time of year to install a patio
• How to get quotes from patio builders

What does a patio builder do?

Patio builders help you design, install, and choose the right materials and finishes for your patio. They can also handle all of the following tasks:

• Site preparation
• Excavation
• Foundation pouring
• Patio installation
• Drainage and grading
• Landscaping.

Read more: Options in patio enclosures

Most common patio problems

Some of the most common patio problems include:

• Cracks and chips in the concrete
• Uneven surfaces
• Poor drainage
• Sinking or settling
• Algae and mould growth.

How much does it cost to hire a patio builder?

The starting price for a patio is around $3,000, but the total cost can exceed $25,000 depending on the size and complexity of the project. Builders typically quote by square metre, and you can expect to pay around $200 per square metre for labour, excluding materials.

Concrete with timber roofing would be a more economical patio choice, while a peaked-roof gable patio is more premium and costs an average of $12,000.

Read more: How much does a patio cover cost? and How much does a patio cost?

How to hire a reputable local patio builder

Here are some questions to ask:

• What type of patio foundation do you recommend for my soil type?
• What are the different drainage options available for patios?
• What is your process for designing a patio
• Can you help me choose the right patio materials?
• What is your typical timeline for completing a patio project?
• Do you offer any other services related to patios, such as landscaping or fencing?

Benefits of patios

A patio is a great way to increase the value of your home. This is because patios add extra living space to your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers. It’s also a great space to relax or entertain guests.

From a practical point of view, patios can provide protection from the sun and rain, which is especially important during Australia's hot summers. They're also a low-maintenance landscaping option, as concrete and other patio materials are durable and require very little maintenance. Once your patio is installed, you can spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your outdoor space.

In addition to the benefits listed above, patios can also:

• Increase your home's curb appeal
• Reduce noise pollution
• Provide a safe place for children and pets to play
• Add value to your lifestyle.

Best time of year to install a patio

Spring and autumn are the best times of year to install a patio in Australia. This is because the weather is mild during these months, which is ideal for working with concrete and allowing it to cure properly. Concrete cures best in temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.

Additionally, spring and autumn are generally drier than the summer and winter months, which reduces the risk of drainage problems.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. For example, if you live in a tropical climate such as in far North Queensland, you may be able to install a patio year-round provided it’s a dry day. 

Getting quotes from patio builders

Once you have a good understanding of what you want in your patio, it is time to start getting quotes from patio builders. Be sure to get quotes from at least three different builders so that you can compare prices and services.

When getting quotes, be sure to ask the builders about:

• The cost of materials and labour
• The timeline for the project
• The warranty on their work
• Any additional services they offer, such as landscaping or design

Once you have received quotes from multiple builders, you can start to compare them and choose the builder that is right for you. Be sure to consider the builder's experience, reputation, and price when making your decision.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.