Answers

We did this a year or so ago... sounds like what you are looking for.  Professionally constructed, I believe it was around $25K... Richmond, VA area.

Lisa, 

A project like this can range in cost.  A Good starting point for front porches can be around $115/square foot. 

Contrite with concrete and look for outdoors living gaviganhomes.com concrete stained and a fire pit

Yes, we almost use Thermory exclusively now. The product is amazing and I really cant think of any negatives as opposed to Ipe that shrinks and is super heavy. We just used Thermory on our own home.

- Sean Sullivan, Living Stone Construction

I have seen some extremely nice patio umbrellas with large bases that can cover quite a large area on a patio. These do not attach to the home and usually do not attract HOA disaprovals. I'd also recommend observing some of your neighbors and see what they have done to create shade on their patio. Finally contact your HOA and see what they suggest.   

There are several options you might select to create a "usable" outdoor area for you, family and friends. 

1) Have a concrete pad poured to extend the current pad you have or to create a new one. These are durable and last decades with the minor issue of possible cracking. 

2) Create a backyard stone pad. Stone pads look great and don't have the cracking issues of concrete pads. 

3) If cost is a major issue, create a pebble or gravel area. Although it's not the best idea to walk on barefooted, it does create a flat area for a picnic table or beach chairs for example.

4) A gazebo is a wonderful way to create a sitting area outside that that doesn't have a patio. It also creates shade and is quite eye pleasing. 

5) A wood or composite deck can create a great outdoor area and it doesn't necessarily have to be attached to your home. 

Once you chose your method of backyard area, accent it with solar or electric lights, sun shades, furniture, plants and yard art to make it trully yours and to add character to your outdoor living space! 

A professional deck builder with industry knowledge will be able to help answer all your questions such as what size deck is allowed in your town, different configuration ideas and other available options.  You can visit our website and contact us with any questions you may have.  Here is our site: www.fourseasonssunrooms.com/decking

Consult a professional.

Whether it's 12" or 12' off the ground there are too many safety and code issues for the average homeowner to tackle. Better to do it right than to regret it later.

WE concur with Jeff and Jason although as a company we LOVE none wood decorative posts or engineered productrs. We are in the SOUTH.