Windows, Siding & Patio Covers in Allen, TX

How does a builder’s grade affect a new patio slab in Allen?

Most Allen yards are in suburban subdivisions where the builder already set the drainage fall. A new slab has to work with that fall, or it sends water toward the house. We read the existing grade before deciding how a patio cover is footed and where the slab edge lands. In blackland clay country, a slab that holds water against a foundation can cause trouble for years. A short walk of the yard in the rain, or a look at where the downspouts empty, tells more than a drawing does.

Why plan the whole Allen backyard before the HOA sees it?

Many Allen subdivisions have an HOA review. Reviewers tend to respond better to one complete set of drawings than to several small requests sent over a season. If you want a pergola now and a screened section later, draw both at the start. The builder’s small slab is usually the first thing to outgrow its purpose, so it helps to decide early whether it stays, grows or comes out entirely.

What if the ground in Allen slopes or has rock under it?

Allen sits in the Rowlett Creek watershed, on gently rolling blackland clay over Austin Chalk. Where the ground slopes, or rock sits close to the surface, footings and excavation get harder and the plan may need to change. We would rather find that at the design visit than during the dig. Walk your own yard first and note any low spots, hard ground or places where water stands after rain, then bring those notes to the visit.