Outdoor Living & Hardscapes Guides
Research & guides.
Expert-reviewed articles on outdoor living & hardscapes costs, materials, and best practices. Also see: Outdoor Living & Hardscapes True Cost Calculator
Cost Guide
Concrete Patio Cost in 2026: You Are Buying the Mix, Not the Slab
A concrete patio averages $9.37 a square foot in 2026. See where the money goes and why the mix, not the slab, is what decides whether it cr
Cost Guide
Stamped Concrete Patio Cost in 2026: A Slab Done Right, Plus a Craft on Top
A stamped concrete patio runs about $13.10 a square foot in 2026. See where the money goes and why the slab under the pattern decides whethe
Cost Guide
Cost to Build a Deck in 2026: Why Small Decks Cost More Per Foot
The cost to build a 240 sq ft pressure-treated deck averages $7,038 in 2026. See where the money goes and which choices move the bid by thou
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Cost index built by David Olson, Creator of the Cost Index & Permit Dataset · Methodology reviewed by Leonard "Chuck" Thompson, LC Thompson Construction Co., Owner (retired) · 2026-07-10