Elite Outdoor Services
EliteOutdoor Services

How to Prepare Your Yard for a Stamped Concrete Patio

4 min read·February 25, 2025

Before we break ground, there are a few things that make the project go smoother. Here's what you can do to prepare your yard — and what to expect when the equipment arrives.

Clear the Area

If there are items in the patio area — furniture, planters, firewood, decorations — move them before we arrive. We'll discuss the exact footprint during your consultation so you know what to clear.

Mark Underground Utilities

We call 811 / Dig Safe before we excavate. The utility companies mark their lines. If you have private utilities — a well line, an electric dog fence, a gas line to a grill — let us know during the consultation so we can plan around them.

Plan for Equipment Access

We use a Bobcat and other equipment for excavation. We need a path from the street or driveway to the patio area. During your consultation, Patrick will look at the access and let you know if anything needs to be moved or if there are access challenges to plan around.

Expect Some Turf Disturbance

Here's an honest one: heavy excavation on a lawn will disturb some turf near the work area. Equipment needs a path, and excavation involves moving material in and out. We plan access routes to minimize impact, but we can't excavate without touching any grass — and we won't pretend we can. The area around the patio will need some lawn repair after the project, and we'll be upfront about what that looks like.

Be Ready to See the Work

One of the things that makes our process different is that we want you to see the work — especially the base. After excavation and before the pour, walk the site with Patrick. See the depth. See the compaction. See the rebar. Ask questions. This is your patio, and you should know what's under it.

Ready to plan your patio project? Book a free consultation and Patrick will walk you through exactly what to expect.

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About the author

Patrick St. John owns and runs Elite Outdoor Services in Hancock, New Hampshire. He's on every site — walking the yard, running the equipment, and walking the finished patio with you. He writes these articles because he'd rather you ask than wonder.

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Ready to talk about your project?

Book a free consultation. Patrick walks your yard and gives you a straight answer — no pressure.