Get matched with top patio pros in Gauley Bridge, WV

It’s technically possible to install your own patio, but we don’t recommend it. Installing a patio is labor- and time-intensive, and getting the end product to look professional demands patience and experience. Not only can mistakes lead to unevenness in your patio and expensive repairs, but not grading the surface properly can cause issues with water management, potentially leading to leaks in your home, foundation damage, and flooding. It’s more expensive to hire a patio company, but it’s usually well worth the investment to avoid costly mistakes.

Scorpions have difficulty climbing smooth, non-porous surfaces like clean glass or polished metal because their pincers and feet cannot grip the surface effectively. While they are excellent climbers on rough or textured materials such as wood, stucco, or brick, slick surfaces prevent them from gaining traction or anchoring themselves. If you're trying to scorpion-proof parts of your home, using smooth materials for barriers or containers can be an effective deterrent strategy.

A simple square paver patio is the easiest long-lasting patio to install. With this basic shape, you won’t have to worry about curvatures in the design or having to cut pavers to fit. You could also opt for the gravel patio, but as noted, it can be messy and you will have to refill the gravel regularly as shoes and pet paws drag it out of its intended area.

Concrete steps need concrete footings, which is a type of foundation. They are made of concrete with rebar reinforcement poured into a trench. The footings support the stairs, spread the vertical load, and prevent the steps from sinking. Footings need to be below the maximum depth that the ground freezes, typically at least 42 inches in depth.