Ever wondered where most of your money goes when investing in a brand-new patio? Here’s a closer look at the key factors that drive the cost – from materials and labour to design choices and site preparation – so you can better understand what you’re really paying for.
1. The dig out
We start by carefully marking out the area designated for your new patio, followed by a thorough site assessment. This includes checking for any potential obstacles such as electrical cables, gas lines, or drainage pipes that could cause complications during the process. Once the area is confirmed to be clear, we proceed with the excavation. Typically, we remove between 160mm to 200mm of soil below the intended finished height of your patio. It’s important to note that the final height of the patio will be set no higher than two brick courses below the damp-proof course (DPC) of your property, ensuring proper drainage and long-term structural integrity.
2. Creating a strong foundation: The sub-base
This is where the strength of your patio or driveway truly begins – the load-bearing sub-base. It’s typically made up of a 100mm-deep layer of crushed aggregate, commonly referred to as ‘MOT Type 1’, or ‘Road stone’. This material is spread out and levelled, ensuring an even surface with just the right slope to allow proper drainage once the paving is laid. Once in place, it’s compacted thoroughly in 50mm layers using a whacker plate – or for larger projects, a mechanical roller – to form a firm, stable base.
Achieving a consistent and level foundation is crucial, as it allows for a uniform bedding layer of 25–40mm to be added on top. Regular checks are made throughout to ensure levels are accurate and the slope is maintained for effective water runoff.
For driveways, especially those designed to bear heavier loads like SUVs or 4x4s, the sub-base is often increased to 150mm. A non-woven geotextile membrane is laid beneath the aggregate to separate it from the soil as a ground stabiliser and enhance stability. For maximum strength, if the budget allows, a lean-mix concrete may even be used in place of Type 1.
4. Keeping Water Away: Smart Drainage for Your New Patio
Proper drainage is a key part of any successful patio installation. As standard practice, your new patio will be laid with a gentle slope — typically a 1:60 fall — directing rainwater away from your home to prevent pooling near the property.
To take drainage a step further and avoid any build-up of surface water, we strongly recommend installing an ACO drain along the edge of the patio. This provides a clean, effective channel to carry water away quickly. However, if you’re working with a tighter budget, a gravel trap around the perimeter can be a cost-effective alternative — especially for smaller patios or areas with lower water flow. The right solution depends on the size of your patio and how much water the space is likely to handle.
