Patios
Your Outdoor Living Space, Perfectly Paved
Professional patio installation creates the foundation for summer entertaining, outdoor dining, and relaxed garden living. Whether you want a budget-friendly concrete patio, a warm Indian sandstone surface, or a modern porcelain finish, we deliver quality workmanship with proper sub-bases and drainage that last for decades. Across the Cotswolds and Gloucester, we install patios of all sizes and materials — because a properly built patio is an investment that adds value and enjoyment to your home for years.
Why Choose a Professional Patio Installation?
A patio is more than just slabs on the ground — it's a constructed surface that needs proper foundations, drainage, and finishing. Professional installation ensures:
✅ Long-term stability — proper sub-base prevents sinking, movement, and cracked slabs
✅ Correct drainage — patios fall away from the house to prevent water pooling and damp issues
✅ Quality materials — we source from reputable suppliers and use appropriate sub-base materials (MOT Type 1 hardcore, not rubble)
✅ Professional finish — consistent joint spacing, level slabs, and neat pointing
✅ Warranty protection — proper installation methods meet manufacturer requirements
✅ Time and cost efficiency — we have the tools, skills, and experience to complete the job right the first time
Whether you're replacing an old, sunken patio in a Cotswold cottage garden, creating a new outdoor space near Chipping Norton or Cirencester, or adding a patio to a new build, professional installation ensures your patio lasts 20–30+ years without major repairs.
Our Patio Installation Process
As a local Cotswolds builder and patio specialist, we follow a proven installation process that ensures your patio is stable, level, and built to last:
1. Site Survey & Design
Every patio starts with a free site survey. We'll:
Discuss your requirements (size, shape, material, budget)
Take accurate measurements
Assess ground conditions (soil type, slope, access)
Check drainage requirements and fall direction (patios must slope away from the house at 1:80 gradient — 12.5mm drop per metre)
Provide a detailed, transparent quote with no hidden costs
2. Site Clearance & Excavation
Before any construction begins:
Mark out the patio perimeter with string lines and pegs
Check corners are square using the 3-4-5 triangle method (3m along one side, 4m along the other, diagonal should be exactly 5m)gardenuk.co
Excavate to required depth — typically 150–200mm below finished patio level (allows for 100mm sub-base, 40–50mm mortar bed, and slab thickness)homebuilding.co+4
Remove all topsoil, vegetation, and roots
Apply weedkiller to exposed soil if weeds are present (leave for at least 1 week before continuing)greengaffer.co
Remove all spoil and dispose of at licensed recycling centres
3. Sub-Base Installation (The Most Critical Step)
The sub-base is what prevents your patio from sinking — skip this and your slabs will move within a few years:
Lay a geotextile membrane (Terram 1000 or equivalent) over the excavated area — this prevents the sub-base mixing with soil over timesquote+1
Pour in MOT Type 1 hardcore (graded limestone/crushite mix) to a depth of 100mm (loose)
Compact with a plate compactor (wacker plate) in layers no thicker than 75mm — this is critical for stabilitysquote+3
Check levels with string lines — the sub-base should be flat and true to the fall direction (1:80 away from the house)squote+1
Add a second layer of MOT Type 1 if required to reach 150mm total depth for heavy-use areas or unstable ground
Why MOT Type 1? It's a graded aggregate that locks together when compacted, creating a stable, load-bearing foundation. Never use rubble, broken concrete, or ungraded hardcore — these will settle unevenly and cause your patio to sink.
4. Mortar Bed Preparation
The mortar bed provides a level surface for slabs to sit on:
Mix semi-dry mortar at a ratio of 4–6 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement (consistency should hold its shape when squeezed but not be wet or sloppy)
Spread mortar bed to a depth of 30–50mm over the compacted sub-base
Rake roughly level and tamp down firmly with the back of a spade
Use wooden pegs set at the correct height to check mortar depth across the areahomebuilding.co
5. Slab Laying
This is where precision matters — each slab must be level and aligned:
Start from a corner nearest the house (or an easy-to-reach corner) and work outwards
Wet the back of each slab before placing (prevents the dry slab sucking moisture from the mortar too quickly)
Lower each slab carefully onto the mortar bed — never drag slabs into position as this displaces the mortargreengaffer.co
Tap firmly and evenly all over with a rubber mallet to bed the slab into the mortar
Check level in both directions with a spirit level
Check alignment against string lines for the correct fall (1:80 away from the house)
Use slab spacers (typically 10mm) between each slab for consistent joint spacing
Continue laying slabs systematically across the patio area
6. Curing & Pointing
After all slabs are laid:
Allow the mortar bed to cure for at least 24–48 hours before pointing (longer in cold or wet weather)
Mix pointing mortar (similar ratio to bed mortar, but can be slightly wetter for easier application)
Fill all joints between slabs with mortar, pressing it in firmly with a pointing trowel or jointing tool
Smooth the joints for a neat, professional finish
Alternatively, use specialist jointing compounds (e.g., V-Weed, Joint-It) for faster application and weed resistance
Clean excess mortar from slab surfaces before it dries
7. Final Clean & Handover
Remove all tools, equipment, and waste from the site
Brush down the patio surface
Fill in around the edges with excavated soil or turf if required
Provide care instructions (e.g., avoid heavy use for 7 days, don't jet wash for 28 days while mortar fully cures)
Your new patio is ready to use
Patio Materials We Install
We work with all major patio materials — each has different characteristics, costs, and maintenance requirements:
Concrete Slabs
Best for: Budget-conscious projects, rental properties, utility areas
Cost: £55–£100 per m² installed
Lifespan: 15–25 years
Maintenance: Low to moderate — occasional cleaning, may need sealing if untextured
Pros: Most affordable option, wide variety of colours and textures (riven, smooth, textured), readily available
Cons: Can look dated or artificial, colour may fade over time, less premium feel than natural stone
Our take: Concrete slabs are perfect for budget projects or areas where appearance is less critical (side passages, utility areas). Modern concrete slabs have improved significantly — many now mimic the look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost.
Indian Sandstone
Best for: Traditional gardens, family patios, best value natural stone
Cost: £90–£150 per m² installed
Lifespan: 20–30+ years
Maintenance: Moderate — should be sealed every 1–3 years to prevent staining and weathering
Pros: Natural stone with warm, varied tones (buffs, browns, greys, greens), riven surface provides good grip when wet, excellent durability, ages beautifully
Cons: Requires periodic sealing, colour variation means you can't guarantee exact match to samples, porous so can stain if unsealed
Our take: Indian sandstone is the most popular patio material in the UK for good reason — it offers the best balance of natural beauty, durability, and value. It's our go-to recommendation for most Cotswolds gardens.
Porcelain Paving
Best for: Modern gardens, low-maintenance requirements, contemporary properties
Cost: £120–£200+ per m² installed
Lifespan: 30+ years
Maintenance: Very low — no sealing required, occasional cleaning with soap and water
Pros: Extremely durable and dense (virtually impervious to water), huge variety of wood, stone, and concrete effects, consistent colour and size, excellent slip resistance (R11 rating), no sealing needed
Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires specialist cutting tools (diamond blades), can feel colder underfoot than natural stone
Our take: Porcelain is the premium choice for low-maintenance patios. It's more expensive upfront but saves on long-term maintenance. Ideal for busy homeowners who want a modern, hassle-free patio.
Limestone
Best for: High-end projects, contemporary or period properties, premium finish
Cost: £140–£220+ per m² installed
Lifespan: 30+ years
Maintenance: Moderate to high — requires sealing, can etch from acidic spills (wine, citrus)
Pros: Beautiful natural stone with subtle colour variations (greys, buffs, blues), smooth or riven finishes available, ages elegantly, adds significant property value
Cons: Expensive, porous so requires regular sealing, can stain or etch if not maintained, softer than granite or porcelain
Our take: Limestone is a luxury option for homeowners who want a premium, sophisticated patio. Best suited to low-traffic areas or owners committed to regular maintenance.
Granite
Best for: High-traffic areas, driveways, maximum durability
Cost: £150–£250+ per m² installed
Lifespan: 40+ years
Maintenance: Low — occasional cleaning, sealing recommended but not essential
Pros: Extremely hard and durable, excellent slip resistance, natural colour variation (greys, blacks, reds), virtually indestructible, adds significant property value
Cons: Very expensive, heavy (requires good sub-base), limited colour range compared to sandstone or porcelain
Our take: Granite is the most durable natural stone — ideal for driveways, high-traffic patios, or coastal areas where salt resistance is needed. It's an investment that lasts a lifetime.
Block Paving
Best for: Driveways, paths, traditional or period properties
Cost: £80–£150 per m² installed
Lifespan: 20–30+ years
Maintenance: Moderate — occasional re-sanding of joints, weed control
Pros: Flexible (can be lifted and relaid if utilities need access), huge variety of colours and patterns (herringbone, basketweave, etc.), good drainage through joints, traditional appearance
Cons: Joints can grow weeds if not maintained, blocks can sink individually if sub-base fails, more labour-intensive to install
Our take: Block paving is versatile and practical — perfect for driveways, paths, or patios where you want a traditional look. The ability to lift and relay blocks is a major advantage if underground services need access.
Patio Sizes & What Fits
Not sure how big to make your patio? Here's our guidance based on common garden sizes and uses:
Small patio (10–15m²):
Fits: 2–4 person bistro set, small BBQ, space for 2–3 people to stand
Best for: Compact gardens, balconies, side passages, budget projects
Typical cost: £700–£1,800 (depending on material)homecalc
Standard patio (20–30m²):
Fits: 6–8 person dining table, BBQ, lounging area, space for 6–8 people to mingle
Best for: Most semi-detached and detached homes, family gardens
Typical cost: £1,800–£4,500 (depending on material)
Large patio (40–60m²+):
Fits: Multiple seating zones (dining + lounging), large BBQ or outdoor kitchen, fire pit, space for 10+ people
Best for: Large detached homes, entertaining-focused gardens, new builds
Typical cost: £4,000–£9,000+ (depending on material)
Rule of thumb: Your patio should be proportional to your house and garden. A good guideline is to make the patio at least as wide as the house's rear elevation, and deep enough to comfortably fit your dining table with 1m of clearance on all sides for chairs and movement.homecalc
When You Need a Patio
You'll benefit from a new patio if:
✅ Your old patio is sunken or uneven — slabs have dropped, water pools, or trip hazards have developed
✅ You have no outdoor living space — just lawn or bare soil that becomes muddy in winter
✅ You want to entertain outdoors — patios create stable surfaces for dining tables, BBQs, and furniture
✅ Your garden is high-maintenance — replacing lawn with a patio reduces mowing and upkeep
✅ You're selling your property — a new patio adds 5–10% to property value and improves saleability
✅ You're extending your home — new kitchen or living room deserves an outdoor extension
✅ Accessibility is a concern — patios provide level, firm surfaces for wheelchairs, pushchairs, or mobility aids
Not sure if a patio is right for your garden? We offer free site surveys — we'll assess your space, discuss your needs, and recommend the best solution (patio, decking, or a combination of both).
Why Choose Faber Building for Patio Installation?
🏠 Local Cotswolds specialists — we understand the area, soil types, and planning considerations (especially in conservation areas)
🔧 Fully insured — £5 million public liability cover for your protection
⭐ Proper construction methods — MOT Type 1 sub-base, correct falls, quality mortar — not shortcuts
⏱️ 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 material for your budget and needs, not upsell unnecessary extras
🛠️ Construction expertise — we're builders first, landscapers second — structural work is our strength
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 15–25 years, Indian sandstone 20–30 years, and porcelain or granite 30+ years. The key is proper sub-base preparation (100–150mm MOT Type 1, compacted in layers) — this prevents sinking and movement.
Do I need planning permission for a patio?
Generally no — patios at ground level don't require planning permission in the UK. However:
Raised patios over 30cm high may need permission
Front garden hard landscaping may require planning if it affects drainage or visibility
Listed buildings or conservation areas (common in the Cotswolds) may have restrictions on materials or design
Always check with your local council if unsure — we can advise based on your specific property.bestbuilders.co
How long does patio installation take?
A standard 20m² patio typically takes 3–5 days:
Day 1: Site clearance and excavation
Day 2: Sub-base installation and compaction
Day 3: Mortar bed and slab laying
Day 4–5: Pointing, clean-up, and curing
Larger patios (40m²+) may take 5–7 days. Weather can affect timelines — we can't lay mortar in freezing conditions or heavy rain.
Can you build a patio on a slope?
Yes — but it requires additional groundwork:
Terracing — create multiple level areas with retaining walls
Stepped patio — different levels connected by steps
Raised patio — build up with retaining walls and infill to create a level surface
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 remove old patios?
Yes — we provide full removal and disposal services for old patios, concrete, and rubble. All waste is taken to licensed recycling centres. Removal costs are typically £15–£30 per m² and are included in your quote so there are no surprises.
What's the difference between a mortar bed and sharp sand bed?
Mortar bed (4–6 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement) creates a solid, permanent bond between slabs and sub-base — best for patios that need to last decades. Sharp sand bed (just sand, no cement) is cheaper and faster but slabs can shift over time — suitable for temporary or budget installations. We always use mortar beds for permanent patios.
How soon can I use my new patio?
Light use (walking across): after 24–48 hours (once mortar has set)
Normal use (furniture, dining): after 7 days
Full curing (mortar at full strength): 28 days
Avoid jet washing for at least 28 days while the mortar fully cures. We'll provide care instructions when we hand over the patio.
Do you offer labour-only patio installation?
Yes — if you've already purchased slabs, we can provide labour-only installation for groundworks, sub-base, and laying. 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.bookabuilderuk
What maintenance does a patio need?
Concrete slabs: Occasional sweeping and jet washing, re-sanding joints if needed
Indian sandstone: Sweep regularly, jet wash annually, reseal every 1–3 years to prevent staining
Porcelain: Sweep and occasional wash with soapy water — no sealing required
All patios: Remove weeds from joints promptly, avoid using salt for de-icing (can damage mortar), don't drag heavy furniture across slabs.
Ready to Transform Your Garden?
Get a free, no-obligation quote for patio installation 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.