Can I DIY patio installation?

• <div><p>While patio installation requires some heavy equipment to excavate the area and compact the soil, you can learn <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/6-questions-ask-building-diy-patio.htm">how to do a DIY patio installation</a> and potentially save money versus hiring a pro to do the work. You should be familiar with taking measurements and doing calculations to determine the right amount of materials, and you’ll need to be comfortable working with the necessary equipment.</p></div>

Get matched with top patio pros in Ely, MN

Q: What is the least expensive way to pave a driveway?

• <div><p>Gravel is the least expensive <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-of-driveways.htm">driveway type</a>, costing between <b>$1 and $3 per square foot</b>. That said, you&rsquo;ll likely need to add new gravel filling once or twice a year which can add up in additional costs over time. In addition, be prepared to regularly rake the gravel into place to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-make-your-gravel-driveway-look-rock-star.htm">keep your gravel driveway looking its best</a>.</p></div>

Q: What is the standard rise and run of stairs?

• <div><p>It depends on whether you&rsquo;re looking at residential or commercial buildings. For residential buildings, the 2018 International Residential Code asks for a maximum riser (or rise) height of 7 3/4 inches and a minimum tread depth (or run) of 10 inches.</p><p>For fixed stairs in commercial buildings, OSHA requires a rise between 6 and 7.5 inches, with a run between 10 and 14 inches. The standards are different for spiral staircases.</p></div>

Q: Does patio installation require a permit?

• <div><p>In many cases, you will need a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/do-i-really-need-building-permit.htm">building permit</a> for your patio, but it depends on the type of patio. Generally speaking, any improvements to your land considered &ldquo;permanent&rdquo; will require a permit. Since a concrete patio is a permanent foundation, you will need a permit. On the other hand, a paver patio or flagstone patio usually sits over gravel and sand, are considered &ldquo;temporary&rdquo; improvements, and rarely require permits. To be safe, you should always ask your building department or your patio company if a permit will be necessary.</p></div>

Q: What happens if you don't put gravel under concrete?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t put gravel under concrete, the concrete can crack, sink, bow, or crumble. Even the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/concrete-forming.htm">concrete forming</a> process will not go as smoothly if you are working directly on the soil or bare bedrock. The lack of a proper gravel layer can also lead to drainage issues below your slab, leading to water issues throughout your lawn and around your foundation.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Patio Service pros in Ely, MN

*The Angi rating for Patio Service companies in Ely, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Patio Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Patio Service companies in Ely, MN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Patio Service needs.

Last update on November 24, 2025

Reviewed in August 2024
A 44=95 floor for a steel building and 2 patios on time and great looking
RD Concrete LLC
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Reviewed in March 2021
My patio project was perfect. Not only did Bryce consistently show up on time, but he finished the project early. Bryce was extremely professional and friendly while offering great advice with colors and layout to make the perfect patio for our house. I highly recommend up North Hardscapes.
Up North Hardscapes
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Reviewed in November 2017
The work was done very professionally. The workers were very polite and let me know what they were doing and if there was anything I could do that would help them out like turning on the outside water for them. They had to bring the patio door in through the house because of a new deck being put...
Budget Exteriors Inc
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Reviewed in July 2010
Another fantastic job by this superb company! The stone patio and walkway look better than new, and the deck is beautiful! I can't say enough good things about this service and the owner, Dan Steele.
City Clean Inc
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Reviewed in November 2009
Paul was very professional to deal with; the only grade less than A that I gave was under punctuality and there is a reason for this. Since Paul is out on the job site with the crew he is not sitting in an office waiting for the phone to ring. Neither does he have an office staff. Therefore,...
Armstrong Concrete Inc
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Reviewed in May 2008
It didn't go well at all. After weeks of waiting, they painted the deck a hideous orange color. The later repainted it a color of my choosing, but the paint was so thick and orange that I couldn't go back to the natural look I wanted. I selected a tan color with a white rail, but the orange...
Heavenly Home Improvements
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Find Patio pros in Ely

Sentri Homes

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Sentri Homes

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172 local quotes requested

Sentri Homes is a full-service contractor delivering high-end home additions, whole-home remodels, new custom builds, luxury kitchens, structural framing, roof replacements, and every major renovation. We assign a dedicated project manager to every job, deliver meticulous craftsmanship with clear communication, and back our work with an industry-leading warranty to ensure complete peace of mind on your largest investments. Our in-house team of licensed builders and master craftsmen consistently earns 5-star reviews by turning big visions into stunning, high-value homes—when you need one trusted partner who truly does it all, we’re the proven choice.

Jered Smith Concrete,LLC.

No reviews yet

Jered Smith Concrete,LLC.

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12 years of experience

We provide all kinds of commercial, residential, and agricultural concrete services.

DB Property Maintenance L.L.C

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DB Property Maintenance L.L.C

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19 years of experience

Tried of high prices and Bad services Call DB property Maintenance at (612)916-8566. Were the customers always right! Serving All of Minnesota and Western Wisconsin Irrigation, Landscaping,Lawn needs.

The Finished Look

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The Finished Look

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24 years of experience

Here at The Finished Look we perform all areas that pertain to building and remodeling. We also have a cabin care taking branch as well that services lake homes in northern Minnesota. We are very close with our employees and boast safety and cleanliness. Winter work in many instances be eligible for a 10% discount.

Allweather home repair . construction

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Allweather home repair . construction

No reviews yet

55 years of experience

homeimprovements

Richards Forestry

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Richards Forestry

No reviews yet

18 years of experience

TREE SREVICE -PESTICIDE APPLICATOR-EXCAVATING-BOBCAT WORK-PONDS-AND WATER FALLS-YARD SERVICE DOCK SERVICE SHORELINE RESTORATION-RIP-RAP RETAINING WALLS BOULDER WALLS TRUCKING

Renaissance Custom Design DBA Bruce Hinton

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Renaissance Custom Design DBA Bruce Hinton

No reviews yet

27 years of experience

We are one of the top 16 in the Nation for Stamped Concrete and Concrete Countertops. Your customized solution is only limited by your imagination and fits your budget. I am 6th Generation brick and stone cutters. We give more than our quote.

New Ulm Furniture Co. is a family-owned business serving Minnesota since 1945. Your solution for furniture, flooring, window treatments, bedding & design service. Located in Downtown New Ulm, we have a giant selection, quality products at affordable prices plus professional installation and free in-home estimates. Our showroom includes furniture for all size homes, condos & apartments. New Ulm Furniture carries famous brands including Flexsteel, La-z-boy, Ashley, Lane, Klaussner, Shaw, Sealy, Rowe, Pride & many more. The selection of lift chairs, mattresses, sofas, dining sets, bedroom furniture, recliners (over 92 in stock!) and area rugs will warm your home without depleting your pocketbook! Visit www.newulmfurniture.com to shop online.

Nick's Tree & Landscape

4.20(

)

Nick's Tree & Landscape

4.20(

)

Customers say: Terrific value

19 years of experience

We are a professional company that will not let you down on any of your landscaping needs. At Nicks Tree and Landscape We have only the best well trained staff to get the job done the correct way. One call can do it all. check out our website at www.Nickstree.com for more info.

Showing 1-10 of 15

Patios questions, answered by experts

Gravel is the least expensive driveway type, costing between $1 and $3 per square foot. That said, you’ll likely need to add new gravel filling once or twice a year which can add up in additional costs over time. In addition, be prepared to regularly rake the gravel into place to keep your gravel driveway looking its best.

While patio installation requires some heavy equipment to excavate the area and compact the soil, you can learn how to do a DIY patio installation and potentially save money versus hiring a pro to do the work. You should be familiar with taking measurements and doing calculations to determine the right amount of materials, and you’ll need to be comfortable working with the necessary equipment.

It depends on whether you’re looking at residential or commercial buildings. For residential buildings, the 2018 International Residential Code asks for a maximum riser (or rise) height of 7 3/4 inches and a minimum tread depth (or run) of 10 inches.

For fixed stairs in commercial buildings, OSHA requires a rise between 6 and 7.5 inches, with a run between 10 and 14 inches. The standards are different for spiral staircases.

In many cases, you will need a building permit for your patio, but it depends on the type of patio. Generally speaking, any improvements to your land considered “permanent” will require a permit. Since a concrete patio is a permanent foundation, you will need a permit. On the other hand, a paver patio or flagstone patio usually sits over gravel and sand, are considered “temporary” improvements, and rarely require permits. To be safe, you should always ask your building department or your patio company if a permit will be necessary.

If you don’t put gravel under concrete, the concrete can crack, sink, bow, or crumble. Even the concrete forming process will not go as smoothly if you are working directly on the soil or bare bedrock. The lack of a proper gravel layer can also lead to drainage issues below your slab, leading to water issues throughout your lawn and around your foundation.

The Ely, MN homeowners’ guide to patio services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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Oct 15, 2025Oct 15, 2025
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Nov 14, 2025Nov 14, 2025
How to Restore Faded Pavers: 4 DIY Methods
Restore faded pavers with these 5 DIY methods using everyday supplies to make your pavers look like new again.
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Aug 13, 2025Aug 13, 2025
Does a Concrete Patio Increase Home Value?
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How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Metal Awning? [2025 Data]
Discover the cost of removing a metal awning, including average prices, key cost factors, and expert tips to save on your project.