Patio Fall Ratio Calculator

Calculating the patio fall ratio is essential for ensuring proper drainage and preventing water pooling on your patio surface. The Patio Fall Ratio, indicated as PATR, is a simple but crucial measurement that helps in designing a patio with the correct slope for water runoff.

Patio Fall Ratio Formula

The formula to calculate the Patio Fall Ratio is given by:

\[ PATR = \frac{D}{W} \]

where:

• \(PATR\) is the Patio Fall Ratio,
• \(D\) is the patio vertical drop in meters,
• \(W\) is the patio width in meters.

Example Calculation

Imagine you are designing a patio with a vertical drop of 0.3 meters over a width of 6 meters. Using the formula:

\[ PATR = \frac{0.3}{6} = 0.05 \]

The Patio Fall Ratio would be 0.05, indicating that for every meter of width, there is a 0.05 meter drop, ensuring adequate drainage.

Importance and Usage Scenarios

The Patio Fall Ratio is vital in landscape and architectural design, especially for outdoor living spaces like patios. An appropriate fall ratio prevents water from accumulating on the patio surface, protecting materials from water damage and reducing slip hazards.

Common FAQs

1. What is a good patio fall ratio?

   • A commonly recommended fall ratio is between 1:60 and 1:80. However, this can vary based on climate, patio materials, and design preferences.

2. Can the patio fall ratio be too steep?

   • Yes, a patio fall that is too steep can lead to uncomfortable walking surfaces and may cause chairs and tables to wobble. It's crucial to balance adequate drainage with usability.

3. How does the patio fall ratio impact patio construction?

   • The fall ratio influences the excavation depth, base material, and paving technique. Accurate calculations are necessary to ensure the patio has the intended slope after construction.

This calculator simplifies the process of determining the correct fall ratio for your patio, ensuring functionality, safety, and longevity.