How Much Does It Cost to Install a Patio?

by Team HomeServe
Builder laying outdoor paving slabs

Patio Installation Costs at a Glance

  • Pavers: $1.75-$2.15 per brick; $700 per 56 square feet
  • Dry-laid brick: $4-$8 per square foot
  • Wet-laid brick: $6-$12 per square foot
  • Poured concrete: $4-$12 per square foot
  • Labor costs: $50-$80 per hour; $4-$11 per square foot
  • 20x20 paver patio total cost: $1,900-$6,800
  • 10x20 concrete patio total cost: $800-$2,400

Installing a patio creates an instant outdoor living, lounging and entertainment space — but how much will it cost? The price of patio installation varies widely based on factors such as how big you want your patio to be, the material you want to build it from and whether you install the patio yourself or hire someone to install it for you.

This May Also Interest You: How to Build a Patio: 9 Steps to a Backyard Paradise

An estimate from a contractor will give you the best idea of what your particular project will cost. Use this overview of patio installation costs as a cheat sheet to help you plan your budget.

Backyard Patio Renovation ----------------------------------------

Patio Costs Per Square Foot

Most patios are made by laying pavers, the cheapest of which are red or grey brick pavers. These cost $1.75 to $2.15 per brick, or up to $700 per pallet, which covers around 56 square feet.

Dry-laid brick, which is made using concrete, natural stone or brick pavers held together with dry sand, costs $4 to $8 per square foot.

Wet-laid brick is the most expensive and makes use of mortar or cement instead of sand, forming a permanent bond. The price for wet-laid brick runs from $6 up to $12 per square foot.

Poured concrete patios cost $4 to $12 per square foot, according to HomeGuide. For the full installation, you might pay about $1,200 on the low end and over $4,000 on the high end, depending on the size of the patio.

Backyard Patio Renovation -------------------------------------------

Labor Costs

Labor costs can dramatically increase the cost of your patio project. Expect to pay a contractor $50 to $80 per hour, which is around $4 to $11 per square foot. Plan on paying for 40 hours of labor for every 300 square feet of patio.

Backyard Patio Renovation -------------------------------------------

How Much Does a 20x20 Paver Patio Cost?

According to data from HomeGuide, a 20-foot by 20-foot paver patio runs from $1,900 to $6,800, including labor and materials such as clay brick, natural stone or concrete pavers. Obviously, the larger the patio, the more materials required and the greater the labor costs.

How Much Does a 10x20 Concrete Patio Cost?

A concrete patio costs between $4 and $12 per square foot, including materials and labor. Based on those estimates, a 10-foot by 20-foot concrete patio would cost between $800 and $2,400.

Additional Patio Costs

Beyond labor and the cost of materials, there are other price factors to consider when thinking about a patio installation. For instance, you may need to install a new door to access the patio. Installing the patio may also require putting in a retaining wall. Those costs should be factored into your budget. If trees, bushes or shrubs must be removed for the installation, this can tack added costs on to your project’s total. Also, factor in the cost of upgrades such as an outdoor ceiling fan, new patio furniture or an outdoor kitchen.

DIY Patio Installation

Got DIY know-how and patience? Willing to go for an uncomplicated patio design? Do you have or could you rent the equipment necessary? If so, you can have a huge impact on the cost of your patio installation by doing it yourself. To tackle this DIY project, you’ll need to know how to operate the tools needed for the job, possess the ability to cut and measure and have time on your hands to get the job done. If this sounds like you, shake the dust off those tools in the shed and save a huge chunk of change by making your patio a DIY project.

Deck Vs. Patio

On the fence about whether to build a patio or a deck? Keep in mind that patios generally afford more privacy than decks, and they usually cost less. Patio materials are less expensive, and installation requires less time and labor.

Is a Patio Worth the Money?

If you enjoy outdoor entertaining — or just chilling by yourself while reading the latest bestseller — this home improvement project and the associated costs are totally worth it. A patio provides a space to relax at day's end and gaze at the stars. It’s also an ideal backdrop for hosting springtime brunches for your friends and family. And if you have an above-ground pool, a patio makes for the perfect lounge area to sun your buns in between dips.

Since we’re all home now more than ever, being prepared for unexpected home repairs with a plan from HomeServe is important. Having a plan in place gives you peace of mind knowing that you can simply call our 24/7 repair hotline for covered breakdowns. See what plans are available in your neighborhood.