Patios & Block Paving

Garden patios can be made from various materials, including natural stone (such as sandstone, limestone, and granite), concrete slabs, block paving, and porcelain. Each material has unique characteristics in terms of durability, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements.

The cost of a garden patio depends on the size, material, and complexity of the design. Typically, prices range from £50 to £100 per square metre, including materials and labour.

Paving flags are large, flat slabs typically made from materials like concrete, stone, or porcelain. They are used to create level and durable surfaces for patios, walkways, and other outdoor areas.

In most cases, planning permission is not required for a patio. However, if your patio covers a large area or affects drainage (non-permeable surfaces), you may need to consult local planning regulations.

Yes, you can install a patio over an existing surface like concrete or tarmac, provided it is in good condition. However, proper base preparation is crucial for ensuring the patio remains level and stable over time.

The installation of a garden patio can take anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the size, complexity, and the weather. Larger, more intricate patios may take longer to complete.

Regular maintenance includes sweeping to remove debris, cleaning to prevent stains, and occasional power washing. For natural stone patios, sealing every few years can help protect against staining and weather damage.

Natural stone is durable, weather-resistant, and offers a timeless, elegant appearance. It ages beautifully and comes in a wide variety of colours and textures, making it highly versatile for different garden designs.

Some paving materials, such as polished stone, can become slippery when wet. To avoid this, opt for textured, rougher surfaces or flagstones with anti-slip properties.

Concrete paving flags are man-made and tend to be more affordable and consistent in shape and colour. Natural stone flags, like sandstone or limestone, are more expensive but offer unique, organic patterns and are generally more durable.

Yes, a well-designed patio can add value to your home by enhancing outdoor living space and improving the overall aesthetics of your garden, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

Good drainage is essential for preventing water pooling and damage. A slight slope (around 1 in 80) should be built into the patio to direct water away from the house. Alternatively, permeable paving options or installing drainage channels can help.

To prevent weeds, use a weed membrane beneath the patio during installation, and apply jointing sand or resin between the paving slabs. Regularly applying weed killer or sealing the joints also helps minimise weed growth.

The best way to clean paving flags is with a pressure washer or by scrubbing them with a stiff brush, soap, and water. For tougher stains, specific patio cleaners are available for stone, concrete, and other materials.

Permeable paving flags allow water to drain through them, helping reduce surface water run-off and prevent flooding. They are often used in areas where Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) compliance is required.

Garden patios can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, depending on the quality of the materials and installation, as well as how well they are maintained over time.

When choosing a patio design, consider the overall style of your garden and home, the size of the space, and how you plan to use the area. Patterns, materials, and colours should complement your existing landscape.

Yes, patios can be built on a slope, but the installation may require terracing or retaining walls to create a level surface. Proper drainage considerations are also essential when installing on uneven ground.

Paving flags for garden patios are typically 25 to 50 mm thick. Thicker flags are used for areas with heavier foot traffic or where durability is a key concern.

Laying paving flags on mortar provides a more stable and permanent installation, ideal for heavier flags or areas with higher foot traffic. Laying on sand is a quicker, more cost-effective method, but may require more maintenance to keep the flags level.