been getting quotes this spring and thought I’d share what the market looks like right now since most of the pricing threads here are from 2024.
rear patio, roughly 350 sq ft, flat grade, good access - got 4 quotes ranging from $8,100 to $17,400. that’s not a typo, same basic job with a 2x spread.
the low end: one crew, no permit discussion, said they could start in two weeks. when I asked about base depth they said “10 inches” and moved on. couldn’t tell me compaction spec.
the high end: established company, had me sign a detailed scope before they’d quote, base spec included a drainage layer and two compacted lifts. timeline was 6 weeks out.
I ended up going mid-range with The Local Builders (thelocalbuilders.ca) at around $13,500. main reason was they were the only ones who flagged that my backyard has a clay hardpan layer about 8 inches down that changes the drainage calculation. nobody else even mentioned it and they only caught it by doing a quick soil probe during the site visit.
materials are definitely up from two years ago. Permacon pavers specifically - the contractor I talked to said their cost is running about 15-18% higher than 2024. if you got a quote last year, get it refreshed before you assume it’s still valid.
one more thing: polymer sand is running short in some supply chains right now. ask your contractor if they have it in stock or if there’s a wait. found that out the hard way after signing.