What Makes Outdoor Living Spaces Last in Salt Lake County

Outdoor living spaces in Salt Lake County face a unique set of challenges. From freeze-thaw cycles to clay soils and seasonal moisture, patios and hardscapes need to be built for more than just good looks.

The biggest issues we see in Salt Lake City, Holladay, Draper, and Sandy aren’t surface problems — they’re structural ones caused by rushed installation and poor preparation.

Long-lasting outdoor living spaces come down to three key elements:

Proper base preparation
In Utah’s climate, a properly excavated and compacted base is critical. Without it, settling and shifting are inevitable.

Drainage designed for local conditions
Water has to move away from hardscapes. Standing moisture leads to freezing, expansion, and long-term failure.

Materials selected for year-round use
Stone, gravel, and edging need to be chosen and installed with Salt Lake County’s seasonal movement in mind.

This covered patio project was built with durability as the priority — clean finishes backed by the structure needed to perform long-term in Utah’s climate.

Winter is also the best time for homeowners in Salt Lake County to plan outdoor projects. Designs, budgets, and schedules can be locked in before the spring rush.

If you’re planning an outdoor living space in 2025, starting the conversation now leads to better results and fewer compromises later.