If you are considering installing a paver patio in your backyard and you have kids, take a moment to think about how you can best accommodate the little ones. Safety and functionality should be the top two priorities when designing a kid-friendly paver patio in Oakland County. Here are a few crucial design elements to take into consideration.
Steps With a Landing
Many homeowners build a patio right off a back door to the house for easy access. But don’t just add a few steps from that door to the ground. Instead, think about adding a larger landing at the top first. This provides a buffer zone for kids who come barreling out of the house to get their bearings before heading down the steps.
To avoid trips from toddlers sporting mom’s heels, or moms carrying an armload of toys, install a landing to step out onto directly from the house rather than just straight steps.
Add a Fire Pit
If you’re taking the time and money to build a patio, it makes practical sense to add a built-in fire pit at the same time. Nothing is more fun than to host a family campfire at night where you can roast marshmallows and tell spooky stories. It’s a great place to gather around when you have company over as well. Plus, your kids won’t be little forever. They will thank you in their teen years when they can invite their friends over for nighttime fun.
Establish a Clear Line of Sight
If your yard has a play set, trampoline, pool, or lawn games, you should be able to see these areas while sitting on the patio. Some elaborate patios may be beautiful but they’re just not practical because the parents don’t have a clear line of sight to the play areas to keep an eye on their kids. Privacy screens or colorful plantings around the patio can look nice, but they can block your view.
Seat walls are a nice touch but if the grade is too high, these can obstruct views as well. In this case, try a peekaboo seat wall or some other type of see-through railing. Ultimately you want to be able to relax on your patio while watching the kids without having to get up and go stand near them.
Plan For Shade
The summer heat may feel nice when you’re in the pool, but it can be sweltering to sit in all day long. Take note of when your yard gets the most sun, and from which direction. Plan for plenty of shade so you can shield yourself from the UV rays during peak times. Plan ahead and consider the installation of pergolas, pavilions, umbrellas, retractable awnings, or sail cloths. Your family and guests will thank you later as they sip on an ice cold drink in the shade.
Schedule Your Free Estimate on Paver Patios Today
Our paver contractors in Michigan take all these considerations into account when meeting with you to bring your vision to life. Call It’s the Brick Guys to schedule your free estimate and consultation on your new kid-friendly paver patio.
