Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - patio ideas and planning

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rosesig
09-14-09, 09:32 AM
I am looking for free software to help me design a patio. Looking to do something with pavers. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks for your time.

lefty
09-14-09, 03:11 PM
Sorry mcgoon -- with "software", I can't help you. I'm old school -- I use "treeware" -- a sheet of graph paper and a scale!

Pavers are pavers -- you get rid of a bunch of dirt, set the perimeter, lay in a bed of compacted stone, cover it with an inch or so of sand and put in the pavers. That part is pretty straight forward. Now, the DESIGN ... That's whare you need the software or the treeware.
pmgca
09-17-09, 07:59 AM
Hi rosesig,

It depends of your goals.
For free program, just for drawing, I'd suggest Google Sketchup
Google SketchUp (http://sketchup.google.com/)

There are several free landscape programs at download.com (http://download.cnet.com/windows/)
Search --> landscape design--> free

Stores like Staples, Target, etc, usually have inexpensive landscape programs (like $5.00)

Allison1888
09-24-09, 03:53 PM
I won't duplicate what others said, but wanted to add one idea we got from a landscaper years ago. Add some curves into your patio, eventhough it means more cutting and waste. Then curve some flowerbeds around it, so it will all look more natural and as if it all flows with the land. Most people have squares and rectangles because they are easier to build, but this will make yours stand out.