What patios covers
A patio is a large flat outdoor surface, which means drainage and base preparation matter more than the surface material. Standing water and seasonal movement are the two things that ruin a patio, and both are decided beneath the surface.
A patio is a large flat outdoor surface, which means drainage and base preparation matter more than the surface material. Standing water and seasonal movement are the two things that ruin a patio, and both are decided beneath the surface.
Building outdoor living surfaces that drain properly and stay level through the seasons.
Waystar carries out this work on residential and commercial property in Brooklyn and across New York City. Every project starts with a look at the building, and the scope, the materials and the figures are written down before anything begins.
When might you need it?
These are the signs owners usually notice first.
- Water pooling across an existing patio after rain
- Paving that has sunk or become uneven
- Weeds growing through failed joints
- An unusable outdoor space that is mud most of the year
- A patio falling towards the house rather than away
What the work involves
- Levels and drainage route established first
- Excavation to the depth the build up requires
- Sub base placed and compacted in layers
- Laying course prepared to line and fall
- Surface laid to falls with consistent joints
- Edge restraint installed and joints filled
How the process works
Decide where water goes
Every patio needs a fall and a destination for the water.
Excavate and compact
The base is built in compacted layers, which is what prevents settlement.
Lay to falls
The surface is set to consistent falls with even joints.
Restrain and finish
Edge restraint installed and joints filled so the surface stays put.
What you get
- A surface that drains rather than holding water
- Edge restraint so the paving does not creep outward
- A base built to carry the use it will get
What affects the scope
- Patio area and required excavation depth
- Ground conditions and drainage availability
- Surface material and its base requirements
- Access for materials and spoil removal
This is a preliminary planning range, not a quote. A property visit is required before any price is confirmed.
Frequently asked questions
Should a patio be perfectly level?
No. It needs a slight fall to drain. A level patio holds water and, in winter, ice.
Why has my paving sunk?
Almost always insufficient base compaction. The surface material is rarely the problem.
Can a patio be laid on sand alone?
Only for very light use. Anything with regular foot traffic needs a proper compacted sub base beneath the laying course.
Services often needed alongside this
This service is part of Exterior Improvements.