Patio Installation Cost Estimator
Enter the patio size and material for professionally installed pricing.
Runs entirely in your browser — your numbers never leave this page.
How it works
Installed patio = size × material rate (base prep included):
- Plain concrete (~$11/sq ft): cheapest, cracks eventually — control joints help.
- Stamped concrete (~$17/sq ft): stone look without stone prices; reseal every 3–5 years.
- Pavers (~$19/sq ft): the sweet spot — individual units flex instead of cracking, easy to repair.
- Natural stone (~$32/sq ft): double the price, lasts generations.
- Base prep: 4–6" of compacted gravel is non-negotiable — skipping it is why cheap patios fail.
- Drainage: slope 1/4" per foot away from the house, always.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a patio cost installed?
About $11/sq ft plain concrete, $17 stamped, $19 pavers, $32 natural stone — including base prep and labor.
Pavers vs stamped concrete?
Pavers: repairable, flex without cracking, ~$19/sq ft. Stamped: cheaper (~$17), but cracks are harder to fix invisibly.
How much is a 400 sq ft patio?
Roughly $4,400 concrete, $7,600 pavers, $12,800 natural stone.
Can I DIY a paver patio?
Yes — the most DIY-friendly hardscape. Materials ~40% of installed cost; compaction is the skill that matters.
How thick should the base be?
4–6 inches of compacted gravel plus 1 inch of bedding sand. Skimping here is the #1 failure cause.
What slope does a patio need?
1/4 inch per foot away from the house — about 2% grade.
Do I need a permit?
Usually not for at-grade patios; raised patios and retaining walls often need one. Check locally.
How long do patios last?
Pavers and stone: 25+ years. Stamped concrete: 20+ with resealing. Plain concrete: 20+ if jointed properly.
Does a patio add home value?
Modest — maybe 50% of cost. It sells the lifestyle, which moves houses.
When is the best time to build?
Spring and fall — contractors are available and concrete cures well in mild weather.