Get matched with top patio pros in Dillon, MT

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.

Deck pier blocks are one alternative to traditional deck footings. Unlike poured concrete and buried post footings, deck blocks don’t require digging or pouring. They’re best for small or low-to-the-ground decks. Keep in mind, though, that not all areas allow the use of deck pier blocks, so consult your local building codes before choosing them for your deck.

Balconies and patios are both outdoor living spaces, but that’s where the similarities end. A balcony is an open space built on the second story of a home, while a patio is a structure built directly on the ground in front of or behind a house. Patios tend to be larger than balconies and are often made from concrete, stone, or brick. Decks and patios share a similar nature but still have distinct differences.

Most professionals will take two to three weeks to install a patio and return your yard to its previous condition. The timeline for your patio installation will depend on several factors, though, including landscaping features your installer needs to navigate around, the type of patio you’re having installed, and how long any add-ons, like outdoor kitchens, take to complete. The size of your patio will also play a role in how long it takes, so plan to keep pets and children out of your yard for longer if you’re installing an oversized patio.