Get matched with top patio pros in Sunburst, MT

While some areas may allow for a slope of up to 20%, this is often the maximum slope for driveways, with a few exceptions of up to 25%. Other regions may have a maximum of 12%, 15%, or 18%, so check with your local building department to ensure you’re laying a driveway that is up to code for your location.

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.

Some patios will cause your property taxes to increase, while others will not. A good rule of thumb is that if your patio requires a permit, your taxes will increase. That’s because permits are necessary for “permanent” land improvements, and your taxes are based partially on improvements. Something like a concrete patio that’s considered permanent will bump up your property taxes, while a “temporary” paver patio or flagstone patio will not negatively affect your taxes. Keep in mind that this can vary, so always contact your building department to see if your patio project will affect your taxes.

Yes, it is possible to turn a regular basement into a walkout basement. Doing so involves excavating the land around at least one side of your basement foundation, installing retaining walls to create a permanent below-grade area outside your home, and then cutting into the foundation to install an exterior door that leads out to the new space. This is an expensive and time-consuming project, but it can add a lot of value and utility to your home.