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Patio IdeasWhen putting together your patio ideas there are a number of basic points that you should consider such as the shape that you would like, how much useable space you need, is shade important, does the ground slope create drainage problems, are there underground services that may be in the way, if there are nearby trees that can be used as a feature, is screening needed for privacy.While getting ideas for the patio shape, consider the possibility a curved outer edge to soften the sharpness that a square or rectangular shape would create. Plant some flowers or a shrub in an indent in the perimeter alignment, create a small protrusion of the deck surface for a tub containing a flowering shrub, or blend the patio shape to finish at one end as a narrow curved section that leads onto a garden path . Another patio idea is to have it in the shape of a large pear with the seating in the wider area and a barbeque located in the narrow section. On sloping ground you might like the idea of sections of the decking set at different levels the follow the ground contours. Ideas in a Special Free Offer Deck and Patio Owners! Get a FREE Info Kit & Video from SunSetter Retractable Awnings. Plan the Patio SizeWhen putting your patio ideas together, one of the main points is to decide on its purpose. Is your patio plan just intended to create a visual scene, or is it to be a much used extension of your home. If it is an extension, draw a plan view of the patio and sketch in the position of any furniture such as chairs and tables that you would like to have on it. Add up the dimensions of the various items, do not forget to allow space for walking behind the chairs or space for walking near the edge of the patio, particularly if it is raised as a deck, and this will help to determine its minimum size. You may decide to plan for a large area where a table and chairs are to be placed, or a long and thin area where you would like to have a bench seat, first decide how you want to furnish and to use the patio, put ideas together and it will help you decide the patio size and shape.Patio Ideas for ShadeDo not forget about hot weather, your various patio ideas my need to allow for some shade. You may be lucky enough to have a large shade tree that can be incorporated into your patio plans, but if not, you will need to consider the idea of an awning or some type of roofing. You may not like the idea of a fixed roof as it may look too heavy, or you may want to have a sunny area for mild weather, you could then consider a retractable awning. SunSetter Awnings are presently offering a free video showing many patio ideas.Keep your deck or patio cooler this summer! Save hundreds on SunSetter, America's #1 Retractable Home Awning. Surface Drainage and Underground ServicesWhen planning a new hard surface area, remember that there will be some rain runoff in wet weather, where will it drain to? Your patio ideas need to take this into consideration., also, if the patio is raised in level will this hold back any surface water and create an unwelcome wet spot? Does the planned position of the patio cover any underground services such as drains or service lines that should not be covered?Trees and Your Patio PlanWhile trees close to your patio may help to provide some shade, be aware that in time the tree roots may expand through natural growth, and this may cause an uplifting of the soil surface. If this uplifting occurs under a hard surfaced patio it may cause cracking, or even an usafe roughness. If there are trees near to your planned patio position it may be a good idea to obtain some professional advice from a qualified person as your patio ideas may need to be modified. |