A paver patio costs $5 to $35 per square foot, depending on the material used. Poured concrete patios are the most budget-friendly at $5 to $15 per square foot installed. Natural stone patios are the most expensive at $15 to $35 per square foot for stone or flagstone patios. These patios require more skilled labor to fit the individual stones but result in a more unique appearance.

The larger and more complex the design, the more the installation will cost. Additionally, the site preparation needs and labor costs in the area will impact your final project price.

The key difference between a deck and a patio lies in their construction and elevation. A deck is an elevated, off-ground platform typically made of wood, composite, or other materials, and is often attached to the side or back of a house. In contrast, a patio is a ground-level outdoor living space, usually constructed with concrete, stone, pavers, or brick, and is either attached to the home or freestanding in the yard.

There are many advantages to installing a patio including a lower installation cost due to the ground-level installation. Also, a concrete or paver patio requires less maintenance, and offers a longer lifespan than a wooden deck.

One way to clean a concrete patio is with a detergent and water solution, mixing a few teaspoons of dish soap like Dawn or Ajax with a bucket of warm water. Using a stiff-bristle brush or mop, the patio can be thoroughly scrubbed, focusing on any dirty or stained areas. After letting the solution sit for 10-15 minutes, the patio should be rinsed clean with a garden hose.

Alternatively, a vinegar and water mixture can be an effective cleaning agent. By combining equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket, the solution can be applied to the patio and allowed to sit for several hours to help break down tough stains. The area can then be scrubbed with a brush before rinsing. For particularly stubborn stains, undiluted vinegar can be used.

Oxygen bleach products, such as OxiClean, can also be a useful tool for brightening concrete and removing stains. These products should be mixed with water per the manufacturer's instructions, applied to the patio, and allowed to sit before scrubbing and rinsing.

Paver patios can have an impressively long lifespan when properly installed and maintained. On average, high-quality pavers can last between 50 to 100 years, making them a wise long-term investment for homeowners. Brick pavers, in particular, can match the longevity of the bricks used in historic buildings, providing exceptional durability.

Concrete pavers are also a durable option, with an expected lifespan of 25 to 45 years, though proper installation and ongoing maintenance, such as regular sealer re-application and repairing damaged pavers, is critical to maximizing their longevity. Other paver materials like flagstone and slate typically have a shorter lifespan of around 10 to 15 years before requiring major repairs or replacements, while clay brick pavers can last 25 to 45 years with proper care.

Ask your installer these questions to ensure you hire the best pro for the job:

• Can you confirm that you are licensed, bonded, and insured?
• How many years of experience do you have in the patio construction industry?
• Are you able to provide references or a portfolio showcasing your past work?
• Based on an assessment of my yard, do you recommend installing a patio?
• What variety of patio materials and design options are available through your company?
• What patio materials do you most commonly recommend, and what are the reasons behind those preferences?
• Does my patio project require a permit?
• What type of warranty coverage do you provide on your workmanship?
• Who will be designated as the primary point of contact throughout the project duration?
• What is your estimated timeline for completing the project from start to finish?
• Can you provide a detailed cost breakdown for the entire project scope?

Before hiring a patio builder near you, follow these tips to make the an informed decision for your home and budget:

• Get estimates from a minimum of 3 different contractors, ensuring they use the same materials and measurements for an apples-to-apples comparison.
• Thoroughly discuss the desired size, materials, and features of the patio with each contractor to get the most accurate estimates.
• Evaluate the contractor's expertise, especially if you have complex or custom design requirements, as their experience can greatly impact the project's success.
• Inquire about any necessary permits, site preparation, excavation, or foundation work, as these can significantly increase the overall project costs.
• Ask about the contractor's warranty coverage and guarantees on their work to provide peace of mind and assess the long-term value of their services.