How long paving stays level depends on what is underneath. Slabs laid on a thin bed of sand over soft soil sink and rock within a few winters, so a sub-base of compacted crushed stone goes down first, dug deeper on clay soils or where vehicles will cross.
A patio is laid with a slight fall away from the house so rain runs off, and kept below the damp-proof course of the walls. Edges are set firmly so the outer slabs do not spread.
What the work covers
New patios laid with a slight fall away from the house.
Paths and edging laid to take regular foot traffic.
Permeable paving, gravel or surfaces drained to a planted area at the front of a house.
Steps with even risers built into sloping ground.
Sunken or loose slabs lifted and relaid on a new base.
Joints filled with mortar or jointing compound to finish.
Questions people ask
How much does a new patio cost?
It depends on the size, the slabs or blocks you choose, what has to come up first and the depth of base the ground needs.
Can I pave over my front garden in Wales?
For a house, usually without a planning application, as long as the surface is permeable or the rainwater drains to a permeable area at the front. Listed buildings, and properties with permitted development rights removed, need permission.
Why has my patio sunk?
The usual cause is a weak base: too little crushed stone, poor compaction or soil that has settled. Relaying on a new base deals with it.
I want to park on my front garden. What else do I need?
Crossing the pavement to reach it needs a dropped kerb, which requires approval from the council. Check with the council before the parking area is laid.
Can old slabs be reused when paving is relaid?
Sound slabs are often reused once the base has been rebuilt. Cracked ones are replaced, and matching them depends on the same slab still being made.