After an exhausting day exploring the Petroglyph National Monument or cheering on the UNM Lobos, what truly calls you home is a beautifully designed concrete patio. Think about that outdoor extension of your home blending perfectly into the high desert plateau that reflects the vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty of Duke City, and you’d just want to rush home and relax.
Now that you have a picture of your new patio while sipping a local green chile cerveza, it’s time to turn it into a reality.
But you might be wondering: “How much does a concrete patio cost?”
Just like the perfect New Mexico chile relleno, the cost is affected by a delightful mix of factors – some unique to our beloved Burque:
- High Desert Delights and Challenges: The High Desert Queen sits at an elevation of about 5,000 feet, earning it its nickname. Compared to lower-lying areas, the nighttime temperatures here are cooler and can affect the curing time of concrete. This might factor into your contractor's schedule and potentially increase the construction cost. Thankfully, the area also has a dry climate, so you’ll have fewer drainage concerns for your patio. Less problems, more savings.
- Rio Grande Ramblings: If your property is near or beside the Rio Grande River, special drainage features need to be added to the design to make sure your patio does not turn into a wading pool during spring runoff. Though these features may pad the cost of your concrete patio installation, they are definitely worth every penny for securing your property and the peace of mind it brings.
- Caliche Conundrums: Our desert’s unique soil conditions, often containing a layer of caliche, a hard calcium carbonate rock, pose a problem for patio installation. But don’t worry. While it’s true that removing caliche during patio preparation can add to the overhead cost, a skilled local contractor in Albuquerque will know exactly how to do it. Plus, they’d factor it into your project estimate so you won’t be bill-shocked.
- Soil Stories: Clay, Sand, and Stability: Albuquerque's soil is very much like a good New Mexico salsa - it comes in clay and sand varieties. What does that mean for you? Well, clay soil expands and contracts when there’s a change in moisture. When not addressed during the construction phase, cracks will form on the patio later on. As for loose sandy soil, they need additional base material for stability. Having a local contractor who knows the specific needs of your property according to soil condition is important so it can deliver a stable, long-lasting patio.
- Additional Features: If you want your patio to mirror festivities like the world-famous Balloon Fiesta in October or the vibrant Chile Fest in September you can request for colorful stamped concrete, decorative finishes or even pavers – adding a touch of Albuquerque flair. If you want additional functionality, features like a built-in Kiva fireplace or an extended patio for entertaining guests are great options. But of course, all these additional features come at a price.
To give you an idea of the average cost of concrete patios, here's a Burque-tailored breakdown you can use for reference:
- Size Matters: A smaller project costs less than an entire backyard that can host a neighborhood fiesta. Here's a local cost guide to get you started:
- Cozy Patio (10' x 10'): This small-sized patio costs around $2,100 - $3,600. With it, you can have your personal Balloon Fiesta balcony, with enough space for a breakfast nook and stunning sunrise views.
- Medium Patio (15' x 20'): Ranging $3,600 - $5,100, a 15’x20’ patio will provide you with a grill area for your carne asada with friends or the UNM Lobos tailgate you always dreamed of hosting.
- Large Patio (20' x 30'): With a price tag of $5,100 - $7,100 have movie nights or dance the night away under the stars with the entire neighborhood.
- Thickness: Think of our New Mexico green chile cheeseburgers. They come in various sizes, don’t they? The same is true for patio concrete. They come in 4 or 6 inches thickness. If your home sees standard foot traffic, a standard 4-inch concrete slab will suffice. It offers a good balance of affordability and durability. But, if you plan on hosting parties with heavy furniture and expect high traffic, request a thicker 6-inch slab. It might cost you more, but it provides additional strength to the structure - just like adding extra green chiles to your cheeseburgers.
- Stamped vs. Stained Concrete: If you are looking for a budget-friendly finish, then the basic trowel-finished concrete is a good choice. But if you don’t mind shedding a few more bucks to get that touch of Albuquerque flair, then use stamped concrete to get make your patio pop like a Sandia sunset. With this technique you can have concrete that looks like stone, brick, or even wood.
- Spice it Up with Features! To elevate your patio experience, why not have a built-in kiva fireplace and extra stylish seat walls for extra seating during those legendary Lobo watch parties? Just like delicious toppings that come at an extra cost – these additions that add functionality and personality will pad the total construction ost.
Remember, these are just starting points! If you want to get the right estimate for your dream patio's cost, consult a licensed Albuquerque contractor.
To make sure your patio project goes smoother than green chile gravy, here are a few things to consider before deciding on getting a new concrete patio installed:
- Permits, Permits, Permits: You wouldn't attempt that legendary Sandia Peak tram ride without a ticket, would you? The same goes for constructing a patio; you might need a building permit to start one. Generally, a local, licensed contractor can help you navigate the permitting process so you won’t have a hard time jumping through hoops (and there probably won't be any fire-breathing dragons involved, unlike those stories our abuelos used to tell!). Be ready for costs involved with acquiring permits.
- Knowing Your Boundaries: Personal space is respected - as are property lines. There are local regulations dictating how close your concrete patio can be built to property lines and other structures. Plus, you don’t want to anger your neighbor by sabotaging their prize-winning rose bushes when you build your patio. There’s no need to fret. Hiring a good contractor who is familiar with these setbacks can guarantee your patio stays within the legal limits. You can then avoid any potential misunderstandings with your neighbors and maybe keep those coveted "Best in Neighborhood" yard signs flowing!
- Living in Harmony with Your HOA: The Homeowner's Association (HOA) sets guidelines specific to concrete patios, including restrictions on size and style. Some even give directions on the color of your concrete. Don't let that stop you from getting your dream concrete patio! A lot of HOAs simply require a quick review and approval process. Check with your HOA before you get started to avoid any hiccups or unwanted project delays.
Remember, a little planning goes a long way, just like the meticulous preparation that goes into a perfect New Mexico posole.
Now that you’ve made up your mind after learning of all the things you need to consider, here are a few tips to help you find the right contractor to build your patio:
- Go “window shopping!” Check with different licensed and insured contractors and ask for a quotation each time. This way, you’ll get the best price for your project.
- Quality materials and workmanship comes at a price so don’t grab the cheapest quote. Find something in the middle that will balance cost with quality work.
- Always ask for references and check their previous work. This will give you an idea of what kind of contractor you will be dealing with.
- Ask questions. Be it the project timeline, materials used, and warranty offered, don’t be scared to ask.
- Be wise and get everything in writing. A handshake is good, but a written agreement is better as it can used in court. Get a detailed contract outlining the scope of work, materials, cost breakdown, and payment schedule.
- Never pay in full upfront. Set payment schedules for the deposit, a progress payment, and a final payment upon completion.
