The Patio Factory

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about building your perfect patio in Perth.

General Questions

Do I need a building permit to build a patio?

Yes, before we are able to build your patio, we need approval from your local council to do so. This is called a ‘Building Permit’ and can take anywhere from a few days up to 6 weeks to receive. Sometimes your patio may require Planning approval before a building permit can be granted and this will delay the approval process somewhat depending on your shire.

The average waiting time for a council to grant this is 3 weeks. Once we have a ‘Building Permit’, we aim to have your patio built within 2 weeks. The average time from start to finish is around 6 weeks.

Yes, we can apply for council approval on your behalf. We will submit all the required drawings, site plans and engineering requirements and ensure that the whole process is completed in the quickest possible time. If this is something you wish to do yourself we can still supply all the required paper work for you to hand in.

How big can I make my patio?

There are many factors that affect this decision. All homes are meant to comply with the Residential Design Codes of Western Australia. This document details requirements and conditions that govern your patio addition which includes setbacks from fences, heights of the proposed structure and the maximum sizes possible depending on the size of the property. We will work with you and your idea to make sure that you comply with the standards.

How close to my neighbour’s fence can I get?

With a signed consent form, we are able to build the patio up to 500mm from the fence line. Without this document, the patio roof and columns must be no closer than 1.0m from a neighbouring fence line. It can even be possible to put the columns of the patio right up against the fence line as long as the roofline remains 500mm off.

Usually requesting to put the patio closer than 1.0m will require a planning application, as well as a building application and extra fees, are usually involved.

If I want to go ahead with the quote you have given me, how much deposit do we need to pay?

Payment terms are set up so you pay a small deposit. Once we have obtained shire approval and we have begun manufacturing on your patio we require a progress payment. We leave a large portion of the payment until the end once you are completely satisfied with your finished patio.

What warranty do I get on my new patio?

All of the materials in your Patio that are supplied by us are of the finest quality and are built to last as Australian products. Our workmanship is guaranteed for life. Our goal is to have you purchase from us again and again and to refer your friends and family.

Does my patio include Gutters and Downpipes?

All of our patios include gutters and downpipes that comply with the Building Code of Australia. We ensure that the correct size guttering and Downpipes are included to handle the extremes of a Perth summer storm.

Why should I choose a Colorbond steel patio instead of a timber patio?

There are a number of features of Colorbond Steel patios that make them a great alternative to timber patios: A Beautiful and elegant appearance. Quick and clean installation. Superior durability. Forest friendly. Low maintenance. Never needs painting. Will not warp, rot, crack or splinter. Termite resistant. Is fire resistant. Is fully recyclable.

Does it cost any more for certain colours?

No, no matter what colour you choose out of the Colorbond range, we do not charge any extra.

Is the price you have given your best price?

The prices we quote are very competitive and we only give our best price straight up.

Patios

How do I know which patio style is right for my home?

Three things decide it: how the back of your house sits against the sun, how much headroom you want under the roof, and how your family will actually use the space. A gable suits homes that want a proper outdoor-room feel. A flat roof or skillion sits neatly under existing eaves and works well for entertaining areas. A dome roof adds a softer architectural line, better for visual standout than maximum coverage. The fastest way to settle it is to have us walk the block on a free onsite consultation. We’ll sketch the options against your actual house.

What’s the difference between a patio, a pergola, and a verandah?

A patio is a covered outdoor structure with a solid roof. It’s what most Perth families picture when they think ‘the back patio.’ A pergola has open beams and lets light through, designed for atmosphere over full weather cover. A verandah is technically a covered area attached to the front or side of the house, often sharing the home’s roofline. The word gets used loosely in WA. We design and build all three. On a free onsite consultation we can help you work out which word actually describes what you want.

What’s the difference between SolarSpan and Cooldek roofing?

Both are insulated steel panel systems. SolarSpan is a sandwich panel: steel top, polystyrene core, steel bottom. Engineered for clear spans without rafters, which gives you a clean ceiling line and strong thermal performance. Cooldek combines insulation with a smooth ceiling finish, hiding the structural beams above. Both keep the space cooler in summer, quieter under rain, and warmer in winter than a single-skin steel roof. The right one for your patio usually comes down to ceiling look, span requirements and budget. We walk you through both on the onsite.

How long does it take from quote to installed patio?

Most projects run four to eight weeks from signed quote to handover. The bulk of that is the council approval timeline, usually two to four weeks once we lodge the plans. Fabrication happens in our Welshpool workshop in parallel, and the install itself typically takes one to three days on site depending on size and roof system. We give you a realistic schedule in writing before you commit. If the timeline matters because of a particular weekend or season, tell us early. We’ll work backwards from the date.

Do I need council approval for a patio in Perth?

In most Perth shires, yes. A patio is a permanent structure and needs a building permit. Some councils also require planning approval before the building permit, depending on size, setbacks and how visible the structure is from the street. We manage every council in Perth and the major regional WA shires. You don’t lodge anything yourself, and we don’t rest until every signature is in place.

Carports

Do I need council approval for a new carport?

In most cases, yes – carports require council approval or a complying development certificate. The exact rules vary by council and the size, height, and location of the structure on your block. The Patio Factory team can help you navigate all the paperwork and ensure your new carport meets local regulations.

What materials do you use for your carports?

We use high-quality, Australian-made steel and roofing products that are designed to withstand Australian conditions. This includes powder-coated frames and modern roofing options that complement your existing home and provide long-lasting weather protection for your vehicles.

Can you match my carport to the style and colour of my home?

Absolutely. Every carport is custom-designed, so we can match the roof profile, gutters, posts and colour scheme to your existing home or patio. Our design consultants will work with you to choose a layout and finish that looks like it was always part of your property.

How long does it take to design and install a carport?

Timeframes depend on council approval and the size of your project, but as a guide, design and approvals can take a few weeks, and installation itself usually takes between one and three days on site. We’ll give you a clear project timeline before we start so you know exactly what to expect.

Can you build a carport for more than one vehicle?

Yes. We regularly design single, double and even extra-wide or extra-high carports for 4WDs, caravans, boats and trailers. Because we custom-build each structure, we can size your carport to suit both your vehicles and the space available on your property.

Is there any maintenance required for my new carport?

Our steel carports are low-maintenance. We recommend periodically hosing down the structure, especially in coastal areas, checking gutters for leaves, and having any minor scratches touched up to protect the finish. We’ll provide care and maintenance tips once your project is complete.

Pergolas

What is the difference between a pergola and a patio cover?

A pergola is usually an open-structured frame with rafters or battens that can be left open or partially shaded with battens, slats, vines or shade cloth. A patio cover is typically a fully roofed structure that provides complete protection from rain. Pergolas are perfect when you want filtered light and a more architectural, garden-focused look.

Can a pergola provide enough shade in summer?

Yes – when designed correctly. We can vary the spacing and orientation of rafters or battens, add shade cloth or incorporate climbing plants to create the level of shade you’re after. For full weather protection, a pergola can also be combined with a solid roof section or installed alongside a covered patio.

Where do pergolas work best around the home?

Pergolas are very versatile and can frame an outdoor dining area, define a garden path, create a feature entry, or sit beside a pool or courtyard. They’re ideal wherever you want visual interest, filtered shade or a structure to support climbing plants and lights.

What materials do you use to build pergolas?

We use durable, low-maintenance materials such as powder-coated steel and quality fixings designed for Australian conditions. This gives you the look of a contemporary, clean-lined structure without the ongoing upkeep associated with traditional timber pergolas.

Can I customise the size, height and style of my pergola?

Absolutely. Each pergola is custom-designed to suit your home and garden. You can choose the footprint, post spacing, beam size, batten layout and colour scheme so the structure ties in seamlessly with your existing architecture and landscaping.

Do pergolas require council approval?

In many cases, yes – particularly when a pergola is attached to the home or exceeds certain height or size limits. Requirements vary between councils. We can advise you on local regulations and provide the necessary plans and engineering if approval is needed for your project.

Louvers

What are louvers and how do they work on a patio?

Louvers are adjustable slats that can be opened or closed to control light, shade and airflow. On a patio, they can be used in the roof or as screens along the sides so you can angle them to block harsh sun, let in a breeze or provide extra privacy when you need it.

Are louvers suitable for the Australian climate?

Yes. Louvers are ideal for Australian conditions because they let you respond to changing weather. You can tilt them to block the hot afternoon sun, open them to capture cooling breezes or close them to gain extra protection from light rain, all while still enjoying your outdoor area.

Can louvers be integrated into an existing patio or pergola?

In many cases, yes. Louvers can often be added to existing structures as roof sections or vertical screens, depending on the design and framing. We’ll assess your current patio or pergola and let you know the best way to incorporate louvers into your setup.

Are louvers manual or motorised?

Louvers can be operated manually with a simple handle or winder, or upgraded to motorised control for added convenience. Motorised louvers are great for larger spans or where you want to adjust the blades at the touch of a button.

Can I choose the colour and style of my louver system?

Yes. Louver frames and blades are available in a range of colours and profiles so you can match or complement your existing patio and home. We’ll help you select a finish that suits your façade and the overall look you want to achieve.

Do louver installations require council approval?

This depends on how the louvers are being used. When they form part of a new patio roof or substantial structural change, approval is usually required. For smaller screening applications, it may not be. We can advise you on local requirements and provide plans and engineering where needed.

Gable Patio

What is a gable patio and why would I choose one?

A gable patio features a pitched roof with two sloping sides that meet in the middle. This creates extra head height, better airflow and a spacious feel, making it ideal for outdoor entertaining areas where you want a more open, architectural look.

Can a gable patio be attached to my existing home?

Yes. Gable patios can be attached to your home, often tying into the existing roofline, or designed as freestanding structures. We’ll look at your eaves, window heights and overall style to recommend the best attachment method.

Are gable patios good for hot Australian summers?

They are an excellent choice. The pitched roof allows hot air to rise and escape more easily, improving ventilation compared to a lower, flat structure. We can also incorporate insulation and roof colours that help reduce heat gain.

Can I combine a gable patio with flat sections or infills?

Absolutely. Many designs combine a central gable section with flat or skillion infills to cover larger areas or wrap around the home. This gives you design flexibility while keeping the gable as a hero feature.

What roofing materials can I use on a gable patio?

Gable patios can be built with single-skin roofing or insulated panel roofing, depending on your budget and comfort requirements. We use quality Australian-made materials designed to withstand harsh weather and look great alongside your existing roof.

Do gable patios require council approval?

In most cases, yes. Like other permanent patio structures, gable patios usually need council approval or a complying development certificate. Our team can supply the necessary plans and engineering and help guide you through the approval process.

Flat Roof Patio

What is a flat roof patio and where does it work best?

A flat roof patio uses a low-pitch roof profile that looks sleek and contemporary. It works well alongside modern homes, down the side of a house, over an alfresco area or as a simple extension from your back door to create usable shade and weather protection.

Will a flat roof patio drain properly when it rains?

Yes. Although it’s called a “flat” roof, the structure is designed with a subtle fall to direct water into gutters and downpipes. Our designs comply with relevant drainage requirements so water is safely managed away from your home and outdoor area.

Can a flat roof patio be attached to my existing roofline?

Absolutely. Flat roof patios can be attached to your fascia or existing roof structure, or designed as freestanding if that suits your layout better. We’ll look at your home, eaves height and drainage to determine the best way to integrate the patio.

Are insulated roofing options available for flat patios?

Yes. Flat roof patios can be built using insulated panel roofing, which helps reduce heat, dampen rain noise and provide a more comfortable outdoor area year-round. We can talk you through the difference between standard single-skin roofing and insulated panels.

Can I customise the size, height and colour of my flat roof patio?

Yes. Every flat roof patio is custom-designed. You can choose the span, projection, post placement and colour scheme to complement your home and make the most of your outdoor area.

Do flat roof patios need council approval?

In most cases, yes. Like other patio structures, flat roof patios typically require council approval or a complying development certificate. The Patio Factory team can guide you through the process and provide the necessary plans and engineering.

Dome Roof Patio

What makes a dome roof patio different from other patio styles?

Dome roof patios curve upward, creating extra height and a spacious, airy feel. The arched shape improves airflow, allows more natural light and adds a modern architectural feature that enhances your home’s street appeal.

Can a dome roof patio be attached to my home or built freestanding?

Yes. Dome patios can be designed as either attached or freestanding structures. Both options can work depending on your layout, existing roofline and whether you want the patio to extend from the home or create a separate outdoor retreat.

Do dome roof patios improve ventilation?

Yes. Thanks to their curved profile, dome roofs naturally promote better airflow and heat escape. Warm air rises and moves out more easily, keeping your patio cooler during the Australian summer.

What materials are used for dome roof patios?

We use premium Australian-made steel for framing and high-quality roofing profiles designed specifically for curved applications. These materials are durable, low-maintenance and engineered to withstand harsh Australian weather.

Can I customise the height, span and colours of my dome patio?

Absolutely. Dome patios are fully customisable. You can choose the radius, height, roof sheeting colour and structural layout to complement your home and outdoor area.

Do dome roof patios require council approval?

Most patio structures—including dome roofs—require council approval or a complying development certificate. Our team can assist with the entire approval process to ensure your new patio meets all local requirements.

Skillion Patio

What is a skillion patio and how is it different from a flat or gable patio?

A skillion patio has a single, continuous slope from one side to the other. Unlike a gable (which has two pitched sides) or a very low-pitch flat roof, a skillion creates a bold, modern line while still providing excellent drainage and shade coverage.

Where does a skillion patio work best around my home?

Skillion patios are very versatile. They work well along the side of a home, over an alfresco or deck, or as a feature structure off the back of the house. The fall of the roof can be set to direct rainwater away from doors and openings while still maintaining good head height where you need it most.

Can a skillion patio be attached to my existing roof or built freestanding?

Yes. Skillion patios can be attached to your fascia or wall, or designed as a freestanding structure depending on your layout and preferences. We’ll assess your existing roof height, windows and doors to recommend the most practical and attractive option.

Are insulated roofing options available for skillion patios?

Definitely. Skillion patios can be built using insulated roofing panels, which help reduce heat, cut down on rain noise and create a more comfortable outdoor area throughout the year. We can talk you through the benefits of insulated versus single-skin roofing for your project.

Can I customise the slope, height and colours of a skillion patio?

Yes. The pitch, direction of fall, overall height, span and colour scheme of your skillion patio can all be customised. We’ll design the structure to complement your home, maximise head height where you use the space most and ensure proper drainage.

Do skillion patios require council approval?

In most cases, yes. Skillion patios are permanent structures and generally need council approval or a complying development certificate. We can provide the necessary plans and engineering and help guide you through the approval process for your local area.

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What our customers say

★★★★★★★★★★
4.6(172 reviews)
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Eleanor Gallanagh

Eleanor Gallanagh

★★★★★★★★★★
7 months ago

The Patio Factory have given absolute exceptional service and 100% deserve a five-star rating. Everyone’s communication has been very professional and polite, have gone out of their way giving me extr…

Vladimir Sutinovski

Vladimir Sutinovski

★★★★★★★★★★
5 months ago

The team at The Patio Factory did a marvellous job with my custom made back of the house patio. Great design choices and great job making it perfect how I wanted it to be. Communication was a breeze t…

Nell K

Nell K

★★★★★★★★★★
2 months ago

Very happy with my new patio and the final result. The team were professional, friendly and worked well around some site challenges. Communication was clear throughout, and any issues along the way we…

Nathan Clarke

Nathan Clarke

★★★★★★★★★★
3 months ago

We are extremely impressed with not only our patio, but also the quality of service we received from the Patio Factory. Our site has limited access and required the patio to be married up to existing…

Matthew Francis

Matthew Francis

★★★★★★★★★★
6 months ago

The patio factory was amazing to deal with. Great suggestions on how best to install our patios so as to utilise the area to its full potential. The quality of the product is very good and the install…