How to Build A Patio

• ✅ Seating/Dining Area
• ✅ Outdoor Kitchen
• ✅ Outdoor Fireplace
• ✅ Fire Pit
• ✅ Grill area
• ✅ Hot Tub
• ✅ Combination of several features

For ideas and inspiration, visit our Online Patio Gallery

Create an outdoor space that feels like an extension of your home. See the Outdoor Living Products available from The Stone Store

• ✅ Poured Concrete
• ✅ Pavers
• ✅ Natural Stone

In our guide: Comparing Pavers vs. Natural Stone vs. Concrete Slabs we break down how interlocking concrete pavers, natural stone, and poured concrete slabs compare, so you can make the best choice for your custom patio.

Need help choosing the right material? See: How to Choose the Right Paver for Your Project

Need help with budgeting for your patio? See: How To Budget For A Patio

• ✅ Determine the patio's size and shape. See our Project Planning and Estimating Resources
• ✅ Decide where furniture, cooking areas, fire features, walkways, etc. will go. See our Patio Gallery for ideas and inspiration.
• ✅ Think about shade, privacy, views, and access from the house.

• ✅ Drainage and slope See our Project Planning and Estimating Resources
• ✅ Property lines/setbacks. Check local requirements,some locations require permits or have rules about setbacks.
• ✅ Underground utilities. Call before you dig. In the U.S., contact 811 to have underground utilities marked.
• ✅ Local permits or restrictions. Check local requirements.
• ✅ Gas, electrical, or water requirements if you're adding an outdoor kitchen, lighting, or other features.

Shopping List

1. Pavers, Natural Stone or Concrete
   Visit The Stone Store to see our wide selection of pavers and natural stone.
2. Crushed stone or paver base
   Don't skimp on excavation, base thickness, or compaction. A patio with beautiful pavers but a poorly prepared base is likely to become uneven and develop weeds or puddles. Call The Stone Store and speak to a sales rep about the best type of stone base would be needed for your patio. Or schedule a free in-person consultation with our Hardscape Specialists.
3. Bedding sand or Polymeric joint sand
   The Stone Store carries hard-to-find specialty tools, bedding sand, polymeric sand, hardscape adhesives, landscape tools and stone enhancers.
4. Paver edge restraints, stakes and landscape fabric.
   At The Stone Store, we offer a diverse selection of edging solutions designed to create clean, defined borders.
5. Tools
   You'll need: shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, level, tamper, rubber mallet, paver cutter/saw, broom, garden hose and marking paint.

1. Mark the area
2. Excavate
3. Build the Base
4. Install the Patio

Caution: a patio designed for a fire pit or outdoor kitchen may need different preparation than a basic paver patio. For example, utilities, footings, heavier structures, ventilation, and fire-safety clearances can affect the design before construction begins.

Overwhelmed? Let the Experts Do It

The Stone Store provides comprehensive hardscape design and installation services through our partnership with Continental Landscaping, Inc. Our team of experts can help you create a stunning patio. Contact us today to learn more about our hardscape design and installation services.

Stop by The Stone Store to explore our expansive display yard! Touch the materials in person and browse premium paving options from top brands like Belgard, Nicolock, Unilock, Techo-Bloc, and MSI.

📍 Visit Us: 7535 Railroad Avenue, Harmans, MD 21077

📞 Call Our Experts: (410) 766-4242

💻 Request a Quote Online

📆 Schedule a Free Consult with our Hardscape Specialists