Landscaping
Transform Your Outdoor Space
Professional landscaping brings your garden to life — from patios and decking to fencing and garden makeovers. Whether you're looking for a low-maintenance patio, a timber deck for summer entertaining, or a complete garden transformation, we deliver quality workmanship with honest pricing. Across the Cotswolds and Gloucester, we provide comprehensive landscaping services that combine practical construction skills with an eye for design.
Why Choose Professional Landscaping?
Your garden is an extension of your home — it deserves the same care and attention as your interior. Professional landscaping offers:
✅ Increased property value — well-designed gardens add 5–15% to property values in the Cotswolds
✅ More usable space — patios, decking, and paths create functional outdoor living areas
✅ Low maintenance — quality materials and proper installation mean less upkeep long-term
✅ Better drainage — professional groundwork prevents water pooling and flooding
✅ Durability — proper sub-bases and foundations ensure your patio or deck lasts decades, not years
✅ Curb appeal — attractive gardens make a strong first impression on visitors and potential buyers
Whether you're renovating a Cotswold cottage garden, creating a modern outdoor space near Chipping Norton or Cirencester, or simply replacing an old, worn patio, professional landscaping transforms how you use and enjoy your property.
Our Landscaping Services
As a local Cotswolds builder and landscaper, we handle all aspects of garden construction with professional-grade materials and techniques:
1. Patio Installation
Patios are the cornerstone of most UK gardens — creating a level, durable surface for outdoor dining, entertaining, and relaxation. We install patios in a wide range of materials to suit different budgets
Materials we work with:
Concrete slabs — budget-friendly, durable, available in various colours and textures (riven, smooth, textured)
Indian sandstone — natural stone with warm tones, excellent durability, mid-range pricing
Porcelain paving — modern, low-maintenance, huge variety of wood and stone effects
Limestone and granite — premium natural stone for high-end projects
Block paving — ideal for driveways and paths as well as patios
Cotswold stone — locally sourced natural stone for authentic Cotswold character
Our patio installation process:
Site survey and design — we'll discuss your requirements, take measurements, and provide a detailed quote
Excavation — remove existing surface (old patio, turf, or soil) to required depth (typically 150–200mm)
Sub-base installation — lay and compact MOT Type 1 hardcore (100–150mm) for a stable foundation — this is critical for preventing sinking and movement
Edge restraints — install concrete or timber edging to keep slabs in place
Mortar bed — lay 25–40mm mortar bed for slabs to sit on (or sharp sand for some installations)
Slab laying — carefully position each slab with consistent joint spacing (typically 8–10mm)
Pointing — fill joints with mortar or specialist jointing compound to prevent weed growth and water ingress
Clean-up — remove all waste and leave your new patio ready to use
Typical timeline: A standard 20m² patio takes 3–5 days depending on ground conditions and material choice
2. Decking Installation
Decking creates a warm, natural outdoor living space — perfect for BBQs, outdoor dining, or simply relaxing. We install both traditional timber decking and modern composite options
Timber decking options:
Softwood decking (pine or spruce) — budget-friendly, requires annual treatment with preservative and stain
Hardwood decking (oak, iroko, balau) — premium durability, naturally resistant to rot and insects, lasts 15–25 years
Pressure-treated timber — kiln-dried and treated for longevity, mid-range option
Composite decking options:
Capped composite (Trex, Millboard, NeoDeck) — wood-effect surface with plastic cap, extremely low maintenance, 25+ year lifespan
Uncapped composite — more affordable but requires occasional cleaning
Our decking installation process:
Site preparation — clear area, level ground, install weed membrane
Foundation system — either concrete footings (for permanent installations) or adjustable pedestals (for level surfaces on uneven ground)
Joist installation — lay treated timber or composite joists at 400mm centres for structural support
Decking boards — fix boards perpendicular to joists with appropriate fixings (stainless steel screws for timber, hidden clips for composite)
Finishing — install edge trim, stair nosings, and any required railings or balustrades
Treatment (for timber) — apply preservative, stain, or oil as required
Typical timeline: A standard 20m² deck takes 3–5 days depending on complexity and access
3. Garden Fencing
Quality fencing provides privacy, security, and a finished look to your garden. We install all types of garden fencing with concrete or timber posts
Fencing options:
Closeboard panels — traditional, sturdy, excellent privacy, 6ft or 5ft heights
Feather-edge (waney edge) — rustic appearance, overlapping boards, can be built to any height
Lap panels — budget-friendly, standard garden fencing, quick to install
Picket fencing — decorative, low-security, ideal for front gardens
Post and rail — rural look, good for containing animals or marking boundaries
Trellis and screening — add height and privacy to existing fences or walls
Our fencing installation process:
Post hole digging — dig holes to 600mm depth (or below frost line in exposed areas)
Post installation — set posts in concrete for maximum stability (or use post spikes for temporary installations)
Panel or board fixing — attach panels or nail feather-edge boards to rails
Capping — install post caps and rail capping for weather protection and finished appearance
Gates — fit matching gates with appropriate hinges, latches, and locks
Typical timeline: 10–15 panels (standard semi-detached garden boundary) takes 1–2 days.
4. Concrete Footings & Foundations
Solid foundations are critical for patios, decking, sheds, summer houses, and garden structures. We provide concrete footing and foundation services for all garden construction projects.
When footings are needed:
Decking support posts and joists
Shed and summer house bases
Garden office or studio foundations
Retaining wall footings
Patio sub-bases on unstable ground
Steps and raised platforms
Our process:
Site excavation — dig to required depth based on structure and ground conditions
Formwork — install timber or steel shuttering to contain concrete
Reinforcement — add steel mesh or rebar if required for structural strength
Concrete pour — mix and pour C20/25 or C30 concrete depending on load requirements
Finishing — level and smooth surface, allow to cure (typically 7–28 days for full strength)
Damp proofing — install DPM if required for buildings or enclosed structures
5. Pathways and Steps
Connect different areas of your garden with attractive, functional pathways and steps.
Pathway materials:
Concrete or stone paving slabs
Gravel or crushed stone with edging
Block paving
Natural stone setts or cobbles
Stepping stones through lawns or borders
Step construction:
Timber steps (for decking or garden slopes)
Stone or concrete steps (for patios and raised areas)
Railway sleeper steps (rustic, budget-friendly option)
All pathways and steps include proper sub-base preparation and drainage to prevent water pooling and ensure long-term stability.
6. Garden Clearance & Waste Removal
Before any landscaping work begins, we handle site clearance:
Old patio or concrete removal — broken up and disposed of at licensed recycling centres
Fence panel and post removal — including concrete post bases
Turf and soil removal — excavation and disposal of topsoil or subsoil as needed
General garden clearance — overgrown vegetation, old sheds, debris removal
Skip hire and waste disposal — we handle all permits and disposal — you don't need to arrange anything
Best Landscaping Solutions by Garden Type
Different gardens have different needs. Here's our guidance based on common scenarios:
Small urban gardens (under 30m²):
Focus on one key feature — a compact patio or small deck
Use light-coloured paving to make the space feel larger
Consider vertical planting or trellis for privacy without taking up floor space
Composite decking is ideal — low maintenance in tight spaces
Family gardens (30–100m²):
Combine patio (for dining) with lawn (for play)
Install sturdy fencing for privacy and security
Consider a shed or summer house for storage
Durable materials like sandstone or porcelain for high-traffic areas
Large gardens (100m²+):
Create distinct zones — dining patio, lounging deck, lawn, borders
Use pathways to connect different areas
Consider raised beds, pergolas, or garden structures
Mix materials for visual interest — stone patio, timber deck, gravel paths
Cotswold stone properties:
Use locally sourced Cotswold stone for authentic character
Match existing stonework on house for cohesive look
Consider dry stone walling for garden features and boundaries
Natural materials (stone, timber) complement traditional architecture
Low-maintenance gardens:
Porcelain paving — virtually zero upkeep
Composite decking — no sanding, staining, or treating
Quality fencing with concrete posts — lasts 20+ years
Gravel or stone mulch in borders — suppresses weeds, reduces watering
Why Choose Faber Building for Landscaping?
🏠 Local Cotswolds specialists — we understand the area, soil types, and planning considerations
🔧 Fully insured — £5 million public liability cover for your protection
⭐ Quality materials — we source from reputable suppliers and use proper sub-bases and foundations
⏱️ Fast, reliable service — free quotes within 24 hours, clear timelines, no surprises
🧹 Leave it better than we found it — protected surrounding areas, clean work zones, all waste removed
💬 Honest advice — we'll recommend the right materials for your budget and needs, not upsell unnecessary extras
🛠️ Construction expertise — proper footings, drainage, and structural work — not just cosmetic landscaping
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a patio last?
A properly installed patio with adequate sub-base should last 20–30+ years. Concrete slabs typically last 20–25 years, Indian sandstone 25–30 years, and porcelain or granite 30+ years. The key is proper sub-base preparation (100–150mm MOT Type 1, compacted) — this prevents sinking and movement.
Do I need planning permission for a patio or decking?
Generally no — patios and decking at ground level don't require planning permission in the UK. However:
Raised decking over 30cm high may need permission
Front garden hard landscaping may require planning if it affects drainage
Listed buildings or conservation areas (common in the Cotswolds) may have restrictions
Always check with your local council if unsure — we can advise based on your specific property.fantasticservices
How long does decking last?
Softwood decking lasts 10–15 years with annual treatment (cleaning, staining, or oiling). Hardwood decking lasts 15–25 years with proper maintenance. Composite decking lasts 25–30+ years with minimal maintenance (occasional cleaning only).
What's the best time of year for landscaping?
Spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal — dry ground, mild temperatures, and plants establish well. Summer works but can be hot for concrete work. Winter is possible for hard landscaping (patios, fencing) but wet ground can delay projects. We work year-round and will advise on the best timing for your project.fantasticservices
Do you remove old patios and fencing?
Yes — we provide full removal and disposal services for old patios, concrete, fencing, turf, and soil. All waste is taken to licensed recycling centres. Removal costs are included in your quote so there are no surprises.
How much does a 20m² patio cost?
A standard 20m² patio typically costs:
Budget concrete: £1,200–£1,800
Mid-range sandstone: £1,800–£2,800
Premium porcelain or granite: £2,500–£4,000
This includes excavation, sub-base, mortar bed, laying, pointing, and waste removal.
Can you build a patio on a slope?
Yes — but it requires additional groundwork:
Terracing — create level areas with retaining walls
Stepped patio — multiple levels connected by steps
Raised patio — build up with retaining walls and infill
Sloped sites cost more due to additional excavation, retaining structures, and engineering. We'll assess your garden and provide options during the site survey.
Do you offer labour-only landscaping?
Yes — if you've already purchased materials, we can provide labour-only installation for patios, decking, and fencing. Just let us know during the quote stage. Note: we can't guarantee materials you supply yourself, and we recommend using our supply-and-fit service for best results and warranty coverage.
Ready to Transform Your Garden?
Get a free, no-obligation quote for landscaping in the Cotswolds, Gloucester, Chipping Norton, or Cirencester area.
📞 Call or text us today — we'll provide a fair quote within 24 hours and arrange a site visit to discuss your requirements.
Local Hands. Local Stone. Local Pride.