Calgary Patios and Retaining Walls

1. Educate Yourself - Read articles, and understand how patios are built. While it is next to impossible to read an article, and then properly build a patio without a hitch, it is important to understand the basics, so that you can speak with your contractor as an educated homeowner. One article on patios that I've found particularily helpful is found at http://www.gardenseeker.com/patio_construction.htm. An article on retaining walls is found at http://www.doityourself.com/stry/buildretainingwall.

2. Decide on the Surface - Patios come in all kinds of surfaces. Before you contact your contractor, you should have a good idea what surface you want. Some of the most popular patio surfaces include stamped concrete, exposed aggregate, interlocking patio blocks and flagstone. Many contractors specialize in different areas of patio building, so, before you call up your contractor, it is probably best to decide which surface you want. If you can't decide, then find a contractor that does all of these surfaces. As far as retaining walls go, some of the most popular options include wood, poured concrete or interlocking retaining blocks. Once again, this is something to consider before calling your contractor.

3. Size of Patio or Retaining Wall - The size of the patio or retaining wall is another item worth thinking about before contacting a contractor. Most contractors need a good idea of the size of your patio or wall before they can give you a price, so put some thought into the shape and size of your future patio or wall.

4. Find a Quality Contractor - This website offers links to contractors in the area, but however you choose to find your contractor, you want to know that they are reputable. References, insurance, and business licensing are all important items of discussion before hiring a contractor. Look into these three things, and you are well on your way to finding a quality contractor.