When it comes to planning for a patio renovation or installation, there are two points of view within our industry. The first is that you should have as detailed a plan as possible, with each step and feature mapped out before you begin. The second is that every property and situation are different, and that it’s a good idea to move and adapt as you go.

Which one of these approaches is better? I think it depends on the homeowner.

Some customers come to us with an already-completed layout from a professional designer. They want to know exactly how long the project should take, the precise cost, and whether we can deliver on the vision they have in mind. Those jobs tend to be straightforward but leave little room for improvisation. We are more than happy to work under those guidelines.

On the other end of the spectrum, there are customers who want us to create a plan for them and are open to different suggestions as we go. They may even decide to add features or alter things even after construction begins. In these cases, we are just as happy to roll with the punches when they decide to shift their thinking.

This is all a way of saying we let our customers dictate the flow of our work. We don’t force them to match our style or expect them to know everything from the start. But not every patio contractor is going to feel the same way. In fact, there are a few flexibility-related details you should keep in mind when hiring a new company to work on your outdoor space.

Materials Should be Chosen Early if Possible
Ultimately, almost any change or upgrade to your patio renovation plan will be possible. It’s all just a matter of what you like and are willing to pay (and possibly wait) to get.

However, the part of your plan that should be the least flexible will come down to major materials (think pool types, or equipment in an outdoor kitchen). These elements need to be ordered ahead of time and make up the biggest part of your patio renovation budget. Changing them mid-project is possible, but it’s likely to cause delays and cost increases.

Some Contractors Like Rigid Plans
There are some patio contractors who really don’t appreciate changes in direction once they start working. I can understand why. If you have a small team, or have overbooked your crews, then alterations might lead to delays and bottlenecks that cause huge problems. It could also be that the new request calls for skills and equipment they don’t have.

You might know you’ve run into this issue if your contractor tries to steer you away from an idea you really like, or if they quote a huge figure to implement the change.

You Can Always Ask the Magic Question
In my experience, the best way to think about a change to your patio installation plan is to ask the magic question: “what if?”

Those two words could pertain to a different style, a new stone or tree, lighting choices, or anything else you can dream up. Just asking about what’s possible could open up different directions and design schemes. One small change might even lead to others that elevate the plan to a higher level. Even if you don’t decide to pursue the changes, you’ll at least have gotten the idea off of your mind.

Be aware, too, that your patio contractor might also present you with a “what if?” inspiration. You don’t have to accept their suggestions but should be open to hearing them. Of course, every decision has positives and negatives attached, which brings me to an important point.

Making Changes Means Adding Time and Money
This probably seems obvious, but it’s worth pointing out. Any time you make alterations to your patio installation plan you are very likely to add some element of delay and expense. That’s because new materials need to be ordered, crew schedules have to be shifted, and other parts of your design might need to be altered.

That doesn’t mean, however, that you should never veer from your initial design. Sometimes you don’t realize what you really want until you start to see the different pieces come together.

It’s Your House and Your Budget
Your patio contractor might have a philosophy or an opinion when it comes to creating designs and putting them into action. That’s fine. But ultimately, it’s your preferences that matter. You’re the one who is making decisions and spending the money. You’ll be the one to live in your home.

Remember that and act accordingly. It’s good to be open to suggestions, but your contractor should be willing to do whatever they can to be sure you’re satisfied with the result. That might require a touch of flexibility once in a while.

The One Plan You Need Most
When it comes down to it, the most important part of your patio renovation plan doesn’t have to do with lighting, water features, or a choice of paving materials. The one thing you need to get right is choosing a contractor who understands your vision and is adaptable enough to work with you towards creating your dream. Then everything else will fall in line.

If you’re someone who wants to begin with a detailed 3D layout of your property and keep everything moving perfectly on schedule, then you should specify that during your initial surveys. And if you prefer to stay open to different options as the work continues then make sure you have the option to stay flexible. Not every patio contractor has the manpower, equipment, and resources to accommodate changes in direction so it’s good to speak up.

 

Or, if you have a home in the Saugus, Massachusetts area and want to work with the best then contact the Stefano’s Landscaping sales team today. We’ll schedule an initial survey at your home, will be happy to answer your questions, and can show you how easy it is to build the patio of your dreams.