How to Measure Your Restaurant Patio for Outdoor Partitions
An outdoor restaurant patio layout begins with accurate measurements. The sketch does not need to look like an architectural drawing. It only needs to show the space's shape, the exact length of each partition run, and anything the layout must work around. With that information, SelectSpace can help determine which panels, stands, planters, and gates fit the patio. A clear sketch also reduces follow-up questions and helps move the project toward an accurate quote.
Tools You Need to Measure a Restaurant Patio
You don't need specialized equipment to measure your new patio. All you need is a tape measure, pencil, and a phone. Of course, tools such as a laser measure are helpful but not necessary. If you have chalk or painter's tape handy, it can help you visualize the space your new patio will take up. Having a second person can be very handy. While one measures, the other can record each dimension.
Pro Tip: Use our NEW Measurement Worksheet
Tape measure (25-foot or longer)
Laser measure (optional)
Graph paper or our worksheet
Pencil and eraser
Phone/camera
Chalk or painter's tape
A second person (when possible)
1. Draw the Patio Footprint
Begin by drawing your new patio footprint from a bird's-eye view. To assist, use something like Google Maps or our patio measurement worksheet to help. Mark the restaurant boundaries (like the wall or curb) around the proposed dining area. Then draw the line where the partitions would sit.
Using the tape measure, record the patio size, including length and depth. Mark down actual measurements instead of rounding. For example, write "18 feet 4 inches" instead of "about 18 feet." Just like in football, a "matter of inches" can change the combination of panels and end stands that fits the space. If the patio isn't rectangular, break it down into smaller straight sections and label each turn.
2. Mark Openings and Obstacles as You Reach Them
As you measure your patio, we've found it easiest to start in one corner and go in a single direction. Then, when you reach an obstacle like a tree, you can mark it on your worksheet.
If you think of it, you should show where the restaurant entrance is and how the door swings open. Bonus points for mentioning where you want your customers to enter the patio. If the layout needs a gate, put it on the graph. Bonus points if you remember to put in the swing direction (don't worry if you don't - we will be sure to ask). Since municipal requirements vary, confirm with your local city that you're following accessibility rules.
3. Measure Each Straight Partition Run
Don't submit only the total patio perimeter. A 40-foot perimeter doesn't show where a corner, gate, or obstacle breaks the line.
Instead, label each section, such as "Run A", "Run B", and so on. Measure every run separately. Also record the distance between fixed objects and the restaurant wall. These are little things you forget about when measuring a patio.
4. Record the Surface and Take Clear Photos
Most of the time, your partitions will be sitting on concrete. If they will end up on another surface, let the SelectSpace team know when submitting your quote. To avoid an uneven surface, take a photo and send it with your submittal. Photos of these details help the team understand where adjustable leg levelers or a different arrangement may be useful.
In a perfect world, take one wide photo from across the proposed patio, and close-ups of the obstacles marked on the sketch would be a home run. The photos should make it easy to match the measurements to real features.
5. Leave Room for the Complete Partition System
I know this can be confusing, but the SelectSpace panel name is not its exact length. SelectSpace 3-, 4-, 5-, and 7-foot panels actually measure 32", 44", 56", and 80" long. Poles and planter stands add to the extra length. This is because our panels can not be used on their own and need stands or planters for support. So, leave enough room on your patio for the complete system to live and breathe. This is why we like actual measurements and a sketch.
Send the Measurements to SelectSpace
Now that you've filled out your worksheet, taken your photos, and recorded all the measurements, use our Free Layout Assistance and Quote form to send it to us! Remember, you don't have to solve the final configuration yourself. Based on what you submit, our team will recommend the components and quantities needed to turn the measured space into a polished restaurant patio. Now, just sit back, relax, and wait for the patio of your dreams to become reality!
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