PATIO INSTALLATION SERVICE

A: OMLS is equipment to install a variety of hardscape surfaces such as decorative gravel, concrete, Paver Patios, Natural stone such as Flagstone, Bluestone, and Travertine, as well as Manufactured stones such as Porcelain.

A: Pavers and natural stone offer durability and beauty, while concrete is a cost-effective option.

A: Prices vary by size and material but typically range from $15 to $50 per square foot.

A: There are many ways to build a livable patio in order of least to most expensive: decorative gravel, concrete, pavers, porcelain, and flagstone. Each has its applications, pros, and cons. Within each category, various selections can raise or lower the price.

A: The most common gravel we use for patios and pathways includes slate chips, crimson stone, and pea gravel. These naturally colored stones add rustic beauty and are inexpensive due to lower installation labor. They also don’t show dirt, oil, or stains easily, and they allow for water absorption, which is environmentally beneficial.
However, they aren’t as smooth or flat as other surfaces, making barefoot walking or wearing heels uncomfortable. They tend to look dirty over time and need occasional refreshing. Heavy-duty leaf blowers can displace the gravel, and small leaves can get stuck, diminishing the appearance. Pressure washing can help, and we recommend adding gravel every couple of years to keep things looking fresh.
The biggest issue is gravel migration—if not properly bordered, gravel can spread into unwanted areas. Outdoor Makeover always installs a strong border (metal or stone) to contain gravel patios and walkways.

A: Concrete is more cost-effective because it typically takes just one day to prep and one day to pour, requiring less labor. The raw materials—cement, sand, and water—are readily available and inexpensive. Paver patios, on the other hand, involve more steps: deeper excavation, stable gravel base (~6 inches of #57 stone), a bedding layer (#89 stone), installation of pavers, and an edge restraint system. These steps require more time, materials, and labor.

A: The reality is that all concrete cracks, eventually. OMLS incorporates expansion joints at regular intervals to encourage cracks to form at the joints instead of the middle of your patio. While proper base, compaction, and finishing are crucial parts of the concrete process, OMLS cannot guarantee that your concrete will not crack. To avoid this problem, we highly recommend considering a Paver Patio or Natural Stone patio.

A: Recommended installation steps include:
Measure and confirm patio size with your designer.
Grade the area to be 2–3” below the door threshold.
Excavate to allow for paver thickness, base stone, and bedding sand.
Typical residential patios: 2⅜” pavers, ½–1″ #89 Stone Gravel, 4″ of Angular Open-Graded gravel (6″ for driveways).
Ensure proper slope (2″ drop every 10 ft).
Compact the base with a plate compactor.
Extend crushed stone 6″ beyond paver edges for support.
Use ¾” pipes to apply aggregate base, then install pavers.
Install full paver pieces at edges.
Use edge restraint with galvanized spikes every 16″.
Apply and sweep in polymeric sand.
Mist lightly with water (must stay dry for 48 hours).
Advise clients to stay off for two days for best results.

A: We recommend a minimum of 150 to 200 sq. ft. per living area. For example, a firepit area needs at least 200 sq. ft. If you want dining, firepit, and lounge areas with TV, you’ll need 500 to 600 sq. ft. at a minimum. The more space, the better the flow and usability.

A: Lounging, grilling, and dining are most common. Adding a firepit extends use into cooler seasons. Including a TV wall makes for fun sports nights or movie viewings. A roofed structure like a screened porch helps block mosquitos, leaves, and rain. If a roof is present, a ceiling fan is essential to keep a breeze flowing and cool the space.

A: We recommend firepit patios to be at least 15–16 ft in diameter. This allows for 5–6 ft of clearance around the firepit for walking and seating. A 5-ft wide firepit creates a striking visual and functional centerpiece.

A: Please speak with your landscape designer to incorporate accessibility into your patio space. We can build ADA-compliant ramps, railing, and other accessibility features for your project. Outdoor Makeover can ensure that your patio is accessible to all.

A: A freestanding grill needs a 6×8 ft pad: 2 ft for the grill and 4 ft of clearance. If it’s placed near a structure, consult with your designer to ensure safe spacing.

A: Yes! We love installing lighting in these features as it prepares the space for around-the-clock usage. Professional integrated hardscape lighting is key to enjoying your project throughout all times of the day.

A: You’ll need about 10 ft from the hearth, so a 10×10 ft patio is the minimum.

A: This is a great question and it always depends on the clients. Some have dreams of a patio to eat out when the weather is nice, when we are limited in designing outdoor living space we often prioritize a lounging space over a dining space. I believe most people sit down and eat for an hour or so. And afterward, it is time to relax and digest and perhaps watch TV. People also drink coffees while lounging and enjoying the sunrise or in the evening and weekends entertaining friends for drinks, both of these are more enjoyable on more comfortable seating of lounging furniture.