Transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis with expertly crafted stone and paver patios built to last.
Your backyard should be more than just grass and a deck. A custom stone or paver patio creates a beautiful outdoor living space where you can relax, entertain guests, and enjoy those warm Iowa evenings. At DEM Des Moines Masonry, we design and build patios that match your style, fit your budget, and stand up to everything our Des Moines weather throws at them.
Whether you want a cozy spot for morning coffee or a large entertaining area complete with a built-in outdoor kitchen, we handle every detail from design to final installation. We work with natural stone, manufactured pavers, and everything in between to create the perfect outdoor retreat for your home.
Many Des Moines homeowners face a choice between building a wood deck or installing a patio. While decks have their place, patios offer some serious advantages. Stone and paver patios require almost no maintenance. You will not spend your weekends staining, sealing, or replacing rotted boards like you would with wood.
Patios also last longer. A properly installed stone patio can easily last 25 to 50 years or more, while most wood decks need major repairs or replacement within 15 to 20 years. Your patio will not splinter, warp, or fade like wood does. Plus, patios add real value to your home. Buyers love outdoor living spaces that look great and need zero upkeep.
We offer several patio materials to match what you want:
Not sure which material works best for your project? We walk you through the pros and cons of each option during your free consultation. We help you pick materials that match your home's style, your lifestyle needs, and your budget.
A beautiful patio starts with proper planning and preparation. We do not just throw down some pavers and call it done. Our installation process ensures your patio stays level, drains properly, and looks great for decades.
First, we meet with you to discuss your vision, measure your space, and understand how you plan to use your patio. We talk about furniture placement, traffic flow, and any special features like fire pits or built-in seating. Then we create a detailed design and provide an upfront estimate with no hidden costs.
Next comes the foundation work. We excavate to the proper depth, grade for drainage away from your home, and install a compacted gravel base that prevents settling. This step makes all the difference between a patio that lasts and one that develops dips and wobbles after a few years.
We then add a layer of sand, carefully level everything, and begin laying your chosen stone or pavers. Each piece gets precisely placed and checked for level. We cut around obstacles, create clean edges, and make sure every joint lines up perfectly. Finally, we sweep polymeric sand into the joints to lock everything together and prevent weeds from growing between pavers.
The result? A rock-solid patio that drains water away from your home, stays level through freeze-thaw cycles, and looks better than the day we installed it as it weathers naturally over time.
Your patio can be as simple or elaborate as you want. Some customers prefer a basic rectangular patio just big enough for a table and chairs. Others want multiple levels, curved edges, decorative borders, and integrated features that make their outdoor space truly special.
We can incorporate built-in fire pits for cool evenings, raised planter boxes for herbs and flowers, or seat walls that provide extra seating without taking up floor space. Many customers add outdoor kitchens with built-in grills, counters, and storage. We also build decorative retaining walls to create terraced levels when your yard has a slope.
Lighting transforms your patio from a daytime space into a place you can enjoy any time. We work with electricians to add low-voltage path lights, step lights built into seat walls, and uplighting that highlights trees and architectural features.
Pattern choices also make a big impact on your patio's final look. Running bond, herringbone, basket weave, and circular patterns each create different visual effects. We show you samples and help you pick patterns that complement your home's architecture and your personal taste. Ready to create your dream outdoor space? Start with our expert masonry services in Des Moines.
Patio costs vary based on size, materials, and design complexity. A basic concrete paver patio typically runs $15 to $25 per square foot installed, while premium natural stone patios range from $25 to $45 per square foot. A standard 12-foot by 16-foot patio averages $3,000 to $8,000 depending on your material choices. Features like built-in fire pits, seat walls, or multiple levels add to the cost but also increase your home\'s value and enjoyment. We provide detailed, upfront estimates during your free consultation so you know exactly what to expect before we start work.
Most residential patios take three to seven days to complete from start to finish. Simple rectangular patios on level ground install faster, while complex designs with curves, multiple levels, or extensive site preparation take longer. Weather can affect the timeline since we need dry conditions for proper installation. We provide a realistic schedule during your estimate and keep you updated throughout the project. We also clean up completely each day and work efficiently to minimize disruption to your daily routine.
Sealing is optional but recommended for most patio materials. Sealer protects against stains, enhances color, and makes cleaning easier. Natural stone benefits most from sealing, while concrete pavers can go either way depending on your preference. We typically recommend sealing every two to three years. For daily maintenance, just sweep off debris and rinse with a hose occasionally. For tougher stains, use a mild soap and water solution. The polymeric sand we install between pavers prevents weeds and stays in place for years, though you may need to add more after five to ten years in high-traffic areas.
Let's discuss your vision and create an outdoor space you\'ll love for years to come. Free consultations, honest estimates, and expert craftsmanship.
