Spring is finally here and homeowners are ready to head outdoors. Don’t leave them stuck with an undersized slab or pile of rotting wood when moving up to a beautiful outdoor living space is easy and affordable with well-designed patios.

Helping customers get a patio that’s right for their needs starts with three basics: desired use, placement, and design. Getting those decisions made before the tools come out makes for happy customers and referrals for more business.

Start by asking a few questions:

• What type of space do you want? A sanctuary? A place to entertain? Both?
• How many people do you need to accommodate?
• What style, size and quantity of patio furniture will you be using?
• Do you want special features like a fire pit, pizza oven, or outdoor kitchen?
• What are your favorite patio finishes? Stamped concrete? Pavers? Brick or stone?

When you have these answers, take a look at the available space. How much is there and what shape is it? Use design templates or software to experiment with different layouts. Here are some ideas:

Small or Tight Spaces

A bistro-style design works great for small spaces, side yards, and corners. A small table with a couple of chairs may be all you want—or have room for. Or maybe a lounge with a side table for a quiet retreat. Small patterns or textured surfaces are best to keep from overwhelming the space.

Big and Beautiful

When there’s plenty of room, go big. Outdoor living rooms are very trendy and profitable for contractors. They’re furnished like indoor spaces and include things like fire pits (or even fireplaces), kitchens, elaborate lighting, shelter from sun and weather, and even water features. Good design is critical to accommodate furnishings, fixtures, traffic flow and functionality. But the payoff can be a showplace for both your customer and for you.

Dining Alfresco

Even if there’s not room for all the amenities, a 10x12 patio is plenty of room for 4-6 people to dine comfortably. Add some hardscaping and a pergola and you’ll have a perfect place for a sunny lunch or dinner under the stars.

A Spot for Sun Worshipers

Sundecks remain popular outdoor spots to soak up some rays or cool off in the evenings. Space for a couple of lounge chairs and cocktail tables with room to maneuver are all you need. Sundecks can be part of a larger patio, a poolside lounge, or standalone features.

Learn More Ways to Impress

These are just a few possibilities for concrete contractors to strut their stuff. For an in-depth look at designing and building outdoor spaces that are sure to impress, take a look at this article on ConcreteNetwork.com.

Sophisticated outdoor living spaces are one of the fastest-growing items on homeowners’ must-have lists, and the right tools ensure results you’ll be proud to show off. Ace Cutting Equipment is your source for rugged, reliable concrete and masonry cutting equipment and supplies.

Whatever your cutting and coring requirements may be, equipment and tools from Ace Cutting Equipment are your choice for top-quality results.