How Much Does It Cost to Create an Outdoor Living Space?
Creating an outdoor living space can transform your backyard into a relaxing and enjoyable area for your family and friends. But how much does it cost? The price can vary widely depending on what you want to include. Here, we'll break down the costs for different elements like patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, and more.
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DIY vs. Professional Cost
First, let's look at the difference in costs between DIY and hiring a professional. Doing it yourself can save money, but it requires time, skills, and effort. Here's a comparison:
DIY Costs: Generally 30-50% less than professional costs, but you'll need tools and materials.
Professional Costs: Higher upfront costs, but you get expert installation and a polished finish.
Remember, depending on where you live, you might need permits for building certain things outside. Check with your local government sites, Fairfax County Permit Requirements
to see if your projects needs a permit.
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Backyard Makeover Price
A complete backyard makeover can include landscaping, hardscaping, and new outdoor features. Depending on how much you want to make-over your yard, the price will vary. We will first look at an overall breakdown for basic, moderate, or extreme makeovers. Here's a rough estimate:
One of the most common features in an outdoor living space is a patio. The cost of installing a patio depends on the size and the materials you choose. Here's a rough breakdown:
Concrete Patio: $6 to $15 per square foot
Paver Patio: $10 to $20 per square foot
Flagstone Patio: $15 to $30 per square foot
So, for a 200-square-foot patio, you might expect to pay anywhere from $1,200 to $6,000.
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Deck Building Expenses
If you prefer a deck over a patio, the costs will differ based on materials and size. Here's what you might expect:
Pressure-Treated Wood Deck: $15 to $25 per square foot
Composite Deck: $30 to $45 per square foot
Cedar or Redwood Deck: $25 to $35 per square foo
A 200-square-foot deck could cost between $3,000 and $9,000.
An outdoor kitchen is a great addition for those who love to cook and entertain outside. The cost can vary significantly depending on the features you want: