Dubliners love their patios, and for good reason. Although we don’t often have nice weather, when we do, many people prefer to take advantage of it. According to premiergardens, a patio provides us with a place to unwind and appreciate the outdoors.
However, a lot of people still lack one. Continue reading if you’d like to learn more about installing a patio and how much it costs.
A patio of about 21 m2 typically costs between ?1111 and ?2511 to install. However, concrete or slabs can be purchased for as little as ?311. Or up to ?4111 for stone or slate.
Understanding how to build one, the sorts of materials available, and how long it takes to build involve understanding the type of patio you need. All of this and other pertinent facts will be covered. And maybe convince you that owning a patio isn’t necessarily out of your price range.
What Is the Price to Lay a Patio?
By creating one yourself, you might cut costs. Even while it might seem simple to create a patio yourself, unless you have previous experience and know what you’re doing, it’s advisable to employ a professional.
A landscape gardener typically charges between ?111 and ?151 per day. Alternative: You might hire a bricklayer for about ?151 and ?251 per day. These two trades require the assistance of a general labourer, who charges about ?111 per day.
On average, it takes 2 to 2.5 days to build a modest patio measuring about 11 m2. A 21 m2 patio takes roughly 3 to 3.5 days. whereas a 41 m2 patio may take four to five days.
The top surface is not the only thing needed to construct a patio. To establish a solid foundation, additional excavation and a range of materials are needed. Unless your garden is exceptionally soggy and rainy, using hardcore isn’t necessarily necessary. However, constructing a patio on dried cement and sand mixture results in a level surface that adheres to the pavers.
On average, only material supply costs.
The comparative costs for the various materials required are shown in the following table. Remember that all of the data was gathered from numerous online sources. So, use all numbers as a suggestion only. Only after visiting the location and discussing the kind of patio you need can you get precise costs from a?paving contractor. VAT must be added to all sums.
Prices and types of patios in Dublin
- Hardcore: ?41 to ?61 per tonne
- The cost of sand per tonne ranges from ?41 to ?71.
- ?4 to ?6 per bag of cement (25kg)
- Brick pavers cost between ?35 and ?61/m2.
- Prices for concrete paving stones range from ?35 to ?71/m2.
- ?45-85/m2 for slate flags
- Stone flags cost between ?45 and ?111 per square metre.
Perhaps a quarry that provides sand, gravel, or building stone is close to where you reside. If so, you can frequently purchase these items for a steep discount. and occasionally have them delivered as well. Similar to this, paving slab manufacturers may be found in many local trading estates. They also cut local stone into patio-friendly proportions. Alternately, ask about the selections at your neighbourhood building supply store. These suppliers can sell patio material at a lesser cost than comparable selections found in garden centres, especially if you opt for locally sourced materials.
Let’s examine the various slab, paver, and flag options for your new patio.
Costs of materials and labour
More details about the various materials are given in the following table. It provides you with a rough estimate of the price you must pay for a patio that is about 21 m2 in size. Be aware that materials like brick pavers, poured concrete, or concrete slabs typically cost less than stone flags of various varieties. If you compare the data with your particular plans, you may possibly use the table as a patio calculator. Of course, you can use the data for purposes other than figuring out how much it will cost to build a new patio. You may also use it to create a straight or winding garden path through the grass. Or you could patch up a damaged or sinking patio.
supplies and price per square metre
- Concrete slabs with colour cost ?1211
- Granite Blocks, ?3111
- For granite flags, ?1451.
- Paving with limestone blocks cost ?1911
- Stone flags are ?91.
- ?31 for paving stones
- A porcelain slab costs ?55.
- Cast concrete costs ?21.
- Sandstone blocks cost ?45 each.
- Cost of sandstone flags is ?75.
- $31 for a slate slab, $611
- Smooth concrete slabs cost ?31.
- textured slabs for ?51
Labor day rate prices vary greatly by location, with Dublin and the Southeast having costs that are up to 21% higher than those in other parts of the city.
varieties of coverings
You might not be aware of the significant differences between slabs, blocks, and stones.
The sizes and shapes of paving slabs vary. However, 311mm x 311mm, 311mm x 611mm, or 311mm x 911mm are the most typical. You have the option of sticking with a single size or combining many sizes. Most individuals choose for a simple design employing only slabs of this size. However, the designer can create something distinctive by using circles, semicircles, and segments.
When set,?paving blocks?resemble bricks, although they are smaller and thicker. These can be used as patio coverings in and of themselves or as decorative patio edging. Depending on the layout of your patio, you can get these in a single size or a variety of sizes. You may cover curved regions more simply with the smaller, thicker blocks than with concrete slabs. A higher load, such as a vehicle, can be supported by thicker blocks if you want the patio to match your driveway.
Another idea totally is carpet stones. They are made out of square stone pebbles that are fastened to a flexible mat. The mat can be cut to any size or form that you desire. In order to deal with oddly shaped patios, around garden ponds, or for a garden path, they are ideal.
various materials
There are several different materials available, as you can see from the table. Let’s examine them and contrast them.
Porcelain
This artificial slab or flagstone was roasted to a temperature of 1411 ?C to create a glazed, stain-resistant surface that is also resistant to scratches and fading. The material is strengthened and made more robust throughout the firing process.
Genuine granite
Granite is a strong, robust rock that can support enormous loads. The rock typically comes in a variety of complementing sizes and varied colours of grey or brown to enable mixing and blending.
Limestone
The colour of the veins in limestone varies, giving it a variety of colours. Because it’s natural stone, the paving has some minor differences to add interest to the overall design.
Sandstone
Almost every sandstone quarry has its own own palette of regionally specific colours. The differentiating qualities were caused by the numerous impurities that were present when the sand was first crushed into rock. So you can match the other colours on your home, you can get sandstone in a variety of colours.
Slate
A layered rock known as natural slate can only be split in one direction. Typically, slate pavers are diamond sawn into the proper sizes after being manually divided (or riven) into layers. It is typically blue/black or blue/grey in colour. Additionally, some include inserts of different colours to provide variety to the overall picture.
cast concrete
Sand, tiny stones, cement, and water are combined to create the man-made material known as concrete, which is then poured onto a surface already prepared with hard rock and sand. It imitates the texture of natural stone and is highly versatile. Other names for concrete include cast stone, manufactured stone, reconstituted stone, and artificial stone. It can be used to make ornaments, paving slabs, and stepping stones by pouring it into moulds. It is a well-liked inexpensive surface that is less expensive than other garden patio pricing.
Features
Blocks and bricks typically have a thicker consistency than slabs and flags, which typically have a bigger surface area. These two realities indicate that we ought to approach them differently as well.
A slab with a flag
These can readily cross rocky terrain because they have a bigger surface area. Additionally, it makes it harder to follow the ground’s contours.
block and brick
These have a reduced surface area, making it simple for them to follow ground contours. In comparison, maintaining a level, smooth surface is more challenging. They can handle heavier weights, like cars, because they are thicker than slabs.
Ground characteristics
Whether you need concrete or not depends on the type of soil in your garden. Hardcore is not required on firm, well-drained ground since there is sufficient support. However, levelling the ground with cement and sharp sand is a smart idea. If you need hard sand, compact it to a depth of 11 to 15 cm, then add cement and sharp sand to a depth of 41 mm.
It is still feasible to flag a garden, even if it slopes. Always construct the patio as horizontally as feasible (allowing for a small gradient for shedding rainfall). The decision to excavate the ground to the lower edge’s level is now yours to make. The surface might also be raised to be level with the higher edge by building a short wall at the lower edge.
The best solution is typically a raised patio on the bottom side. Typically, it might be challenging to excavate more than is necessary because you then need to construct a retaining wall to stop subsidence. Therefore, retain the patio at the “uphill” side’s level and construct a low wall on the “downhill” side. Fill the space with hardcore to raise the level, then add dry cement and sand mixture.
gradient of rain
Building the patio level is always a smart idea to make using the tables and chairs easier. To avoid water pooling on the patio surface, however, add a slight gradient to the surface. A slope of 2 cm per metre often prevents puddles from forming on the patio surface and sheds the rain to the side where it drains into the garden or a sewer.
Factors Affecting Patio Installation Costs
Your new patio’s cost depends on a variety of factors. Some decisions are deliberate, like the slab’s quality. Others, like whether you use hardscape or not, rely on the state of the soil in your garden.
Deck Design
Your patio can be designed by a qualified garden designer using your ideas, or you can do it yourself. If you want to hire a garden designer, take advantage of their knowledge in landscaping and plant selection. Designing a modest garden might cost between ?1111 and ?5111. You can divide this up into typical portions based on an hourly rate of ?111, such as:
- site analysis and survey. 3 hours: ?311.
- for two hours, drawing 211 euros.
- 5 hours spent on concept plans: ?519
- Final specifications and masterplan 4 hours: ?411.
These values show a simple design, yet they may be higher depending on how intricate the concepts are.
Excavation
Depending on the volume of the excavation, a hired excavator or a person with a shovel and wheelbarrow are required to excavate the patio. Don’t forget to consider how others will enter your backyard. There is typically just a tiny path along the side of Dublin’s newer homes. Moving soil from the backyard garden to the trash can on the driveway may therefore be difficult.
removal of waste
To get rid of the extra soil, you’ll need a waste skip. The smallest home waste skip costs about ?121, while the largest costs about ?411. But think about whether having multiple little ones or a single giant skip is more cost-effective.
Size
The price depends on how big your patio is. A smaller patio of approximately 11 square metres costs between ?611 and ?1211, while a larger patio of approximately 41 square metres might cost up to ?5111.
quality of slabs
Keep in mind that you get what you pay for. For as little as ?15/m2, you can choose a patio made of poured concrete, which looks flimsy and unappealing. However, using pricey materials will result in increased labour costs. You either need someone with superior expertise or the materials are challenging to deal with.
Additionally, you need to decide what kind of slab you want. Lots of air bubbles are present in inexpensive concrete slabs, which absorb water and shatter when it freezes. The slabs eventually break and need to be replaced. High-quality slabs typically have fewer air bubbles, which makes them last longer.
labour charges
The fact that labour prices vary by geographic location has already been mentioned. Nevertheless, they vary depending on whether you work with a specialist, a building business, a handyman, or a landscape gardener. In general, sole proprietors offer the lowest prices and frequently deliver a higher-quality result.
Base substance
Typically, a sub-base is required for patios to provide solid foundations. You might not need to utilise compacted hardcore if the subsoil is firm and well-drained. You can’t predict how the ground will change over time, though. It is therefore preferable to include hardcore and condense it before moving on. You have two options for coarse hardcore: MOT Type 1 shattered rock or broken brick or concrete. Both of these materials need to be compacted before continuing. Broken rubble must first be blinded with sharp sand to fill in all the cracks and smooth the surface before being compacted. In contrast, quarry stone compacts better and provides a good, strong base that is ready for laying slabs after being blinded.
Drainage
When you have a large patio, letting the rainfall run off the surface onto the lawn might not always be sufficient. In this situation, you want to include a drainage channel at the margins to direct runoff to a soakaway or surface water drain. Depending on the size of the patio, installing a soakaway typically costs between ?511 and ?1111.
weed-suppressing drug
Consider applying a weed-suppressing fabric to stop weeds from sprouting through the patio foundations. Before putting the weed membrane, make sure all weeds and roots have been removed from the ground. Depending on the efficiency and quality, prices change. However, the price range for the goods is ?12 (14m ? 1m roll) to ?25 (2m x 21m roll), or ?81. (2.25m x 51m roll). If the width of the roll is narrower than the measurements of your patio, you must overlap the cloth by a minimum of 211mm. Don’t forget to provide enough overhang at the edges to turn up the excavation sides?at least 211 mm. Later, you can clip it.
Sand and cement
A bed of 4 parts sharp sand to 1 part Portland cement should be used to support the slabs or blocks. Some specialists prefer to use a dry mixture (similar to floor screed) and let moisture from the environment activate the cement. While both approaches have benefits and drawbacks, you should let the paving contractor make the decision. Some people like to lay slabs over a wet mix, much like setting bricks in a wall. A dry mix, however, is firmer and the patio can be used nearly right away.
joint grouting
For pointing slabs, specialty grout is not required. Use a hand brush and jointing tool to push a dry mixture containing one part sand and one part cement into the joints. Then, to remove any extra, clean the surface with a firm bristle brush. Add a mortar dye if you wish to use coloured grout. Only grout the slabs on a dry day since any moisture will result in stains from the cement.
figuring out the slabs
Knowing the patio’s size allows you to determine how many slabs to purchase. It’s a smart idea to scale-draw the patio on a piece of graph paper. Design your patio with measurements that are a multiple of slab sizes to make things simpler. For instance, if you decide on 611mm x 611mm slabs, be sure the patio has the following measurements: 1211mm, 1811mm, 2411mm, 3111mm, etc. You won’t need to cut the slabs if you construct it this way. If you are unable to do this, attempt to place the larger slabs in the middle of the patio and use a smaller slab or brick for the edge.
Creating a Patio
Anyone who enjoys DIY may do it if they follow the directions exactly because laying a patio is a fairly simple process. If required, engage a professional to perform it for you because it’s laborious job and you need to be somewhat agile.
- Organize the space
Verify that there are no buried services that you might unintentionally uncover before you begin excavating in the garden. They ought to be at least 451 mm underground, but you never know.
Use pegs and string to mark the patio’s boundary. Maintain dimensions that are a multiple of the paver’s size. diagonals are measured. If there are 91? corners in the area, they ought to be the same length.
So that you can see where each paver goes, spread them out on the lawn. After creating the layout on paper, move the pavers to a secure location.
Take the turf out and save it in case you need to repair the edges later.
- Excavate
To reach the highest point, dig down roughly 215mm. The pavers and all of the sub-base layers fit inside this depth.
The depths of the various layers should be marked out on a series of wooden stakes, which you should hammer into the ground about 1 m apart. These serve as a level reference for compacting.
- Complete the sub-base.
Before moving on to the next step, pour and compact each layer into the excavation using the pegs as markers.
- Make sure there is a slope from one edge to the opposite edge of the MOT Type 1 hardcore 111mm sub-base. Before continuing, compact the layer. The gradient should be about 2 cm every 1 metres.
- To make a coating that is blinding, compact a thin layer of jagged sand or ballast.
- Next, make room for a mortar layer that is 51 mm thick. or a dry mixture of cement and sharp sand.
- Last but not least, provide 65mm for the paving slab (or whatever thickness your pavers are).
- Installing pavers
begin in a corner (preferably the highest corner). Over the sub-base, spread out enough mortar (or dry mix) to bed one paver. To improve adherence and provide a lubricant when adjusting, wet the paver’s backside.
With a rubber mallet, place this first slab into its base and level it. Using a trowel, cement the spaces between the edges.
Make a bed for the following slab. After that, moisten the slab and set it on the mattress. Make sure the paver is level by tapping it with a hammer while using a long spirit level to show the direction of fall.
Keep the gradient level in one direction and sloping in the other as you go along, paving slab after slab.
Small pieces of wood should be inserted between each paver to serve as spacers.
After you’re done, let the mortar dry completely before grouting the joints.
- Re-grouting joints
Fill the spaces between the pavers with a mixture of one part sand and one part cement that has been combined in a bucket. Keep the area dry and make sure no dry mixture remains on the pavers; if they do, the cement will stain the surface. Sprinkle the mixture into the gap and use a small hand brush to spread it.
Finally, use a jointing tool to squeeze the joints and keep grouting the space until it is completely filled.
Types & Finishes of Patio
Your preferences and your financial situation will determine the patio’s style and finish. Each variety does, however, have benefits and drawbacks.
slab of concrete
?15 to ?71/m2.
advantages
- The slabs are simple to swap out or relocate as needed.
- Effective prevention of damp
- It is resilient to temperature extremes.
disadvantages
- It is challenging to build anything other than a patio because of its strict shape.
- Over time, colours and dyes fade.
- Building over electrical and plumbing infrastructure is not a good idea.
Brick
?15 to ?51/m2.
advantages
- Warp and scratch resistance
- simple to maintain.
- Repairing and replacing it is simple.
disadvantages
- It’s challenging to install.
- has to be routinely sealed.
- Occasionally susceptible to frost damage,
Slate
?51 to ?81/m2.
advantages
- Colors deteriorate relatively slowly.
- Water and stains are not easily absorbed by it.
- Since it’s not frequently used, it may be a distinctive patio.
disadvantages
- Slate is readily scratched.
- It readily absorbs puddles and can freeze in the winter.
- susceptible to flaking and splitting.
Stone
?41 to ?111/m2.
advantages
- The colour of the stone remains.
- really robust.
- may be easily moulded to fit uncomfortable spaces.
disadvantages
- surface irregularities.
- prone to weeds and blown soil accumulating.
- costly.
Patio alternatives
Patios might appear stiff and formal and may not complement some garden styles. Consider utilising one or a mix of the following in your garden as an alternative to a patio:
Barker
Garden centres sell chipped bark in little bags, while wholesalers and sawmills also sell it in huge amounts. Similar to preparing a patio, prepare the space to hold the bark. As a result, you should have a weed-controlling layer, a base of compacted concrete and sand, and a low retaining wall. Bark is advantageous because it allows water to pass through and is soft for play areas. A drawback is that if your garden experiences strong winds, it might be easily blown around. Play bark bags typically sell for roughly ?91 per 1 m3, although high-quality mulching bark ranges in price from ?61 to ?111 per 1 m3.
gravel encased in resin
Use resin-encased gravel of your choosing. Unfortunately, the resin cannot be supported without a solid surface like tarmac or concrete. Therefore, if your current patio appears to be in poor shape, it can be appropriate as a top layer. Use a specialised business unless you have experience working with the material, which is challenging for a novice. The fact that the gravel naturally separates into spaces makes drainage simple. Geographical location and material quality both affect price. Average costs range from ?41 to ?71/m2, nevertheless.
Gravel
Gravel is frequently used as a substitute. The sub-base should be prepared similarly to a patio. However, allow for a top layer of gravel that is between 51mm and 75mm thick. Less than this gradually deteriorates, and more than 75mm is challenging to walk on. Gravel ultimately spreads out across the garden with time. But it’s still affordable enough to always have a bag or two on hand for topping off. Depending on the gravel you select, prices change. However, a giant bag of normal 11mm pea shingle costs between ?41 and ?51.
Constant Upkeep
There are regular maintenance duties you should perform regardless of the patio surface you choose.
- In order to detect a failing sub-base, look for subsidence.
- As soon as weed seeds begin to sprout, pull them up.
- Use a stiff broom and a specialised patio cleaning detergent to wash the patio once or twice a year to get rid of moss and debris.
- Use a stiff broom and clean water to wash your automobile once every month.
- Remove soil and blown leaves from the area.
- Examine the condition of the grout between the slabs and stones and replace it as necessary.
Building regulations and planning approval
Building a patio in your backyard is not subject to any restrictions regarding planning clearance. However, if the patio necessitates extensive banking or terracing on sloped ground, you might need to request approval. Additionally, you might need to request permission if you live in a listed building. Additionally, you should inquire with your local planning office to see whether there is already a planning restriction or covenant that forbids developments of this nature.
In a similar vein, no patio component is covered by the Building Regulations. You must, however, take care that none of the patio-related changes make getting into your house more challenging. For instance, adding steps where none previously occurred It would be against Approved Document M to do so (Access to and use of buildings).
hiring advice for installing patios
There are some easy rules to follow when looking for someone to create a patio so that you don’t get taken advantage of or charged more than you bargained for.
- Obtain estimates from three separate businesses. Choose the option that makes you feel the happiest working with it rather than just going with the lowest option.
- Find out how long they have been in business and if they have any references for work of a same nature. If they provide references, call the people on the list, chat with the patio’s owner, and assess the quality of the work.
- Verify the paving contractor’s insurance coverage to ensure that you and they are both covered in the event of a mishap.
- Decide on a payment plan. It’s permissible to pay a deposit equal to 11% or 15% of the total cost, with the remaining balance due after the project is successfully completed.
- Convene on who will provide the materials. Will it be you or the paver? If you obtain them, the paving contractor will not receive his cut of the cost. However, if the paver contractor purchases the supplies, you avoid the headache of looking for a fair price and
- planning the delivery.
FAQ on Patio Laying
Can paving slabs be laid on sand?
Yes, but make sure your base is made of compacted sharp sand.
Can you put slabs on the ground?
You can, indeed. There are several things you should keep in mind, though:
- Use a weed-suppressing fabric and check for any roots that might try to break through.
- To help with drainage, mix some sharp sand into the soil. This stops rainwater from collecting beneath the slabs.
- In order to prevent the patio from sinking, compact the soil/sand mixture to create a hard, flat surface.
What patio construction method is the cheapest?
Depending on your tastes, there are two.
- When poured concrete sets, it creates a smooth, durable surface that is simple to install and maintain.
- Generally speaking, depending on the type you select, gravel is less expensive than concrete. Surface topping is simple. However, weeds frequently take root in the gravel, and the individual stones usually wind up being scattered around the yard.
What kind of sub-base is ideal for a patio?
The following are the most fundamental materials:
111mm to 151mm of compacted MOT Type 1 aggregate, then a thin layer of sharp sand or 41mm-to-dust ballast for blinding purposes. Make sure to use a vibrating plate compactor to compact the base.
How much room should be left between pavers?
In general, provide 3 to 5mm of space between slabs. Make sure they appear even, even if you don’t measure them precisely. To check if the pavers are straight, it is a good idea to run a string line along their edge.
Prior to installing pavers, is sand tamped?
Yes. The last thing you need is for the pavers to sag due to an unstable base. So, before putting the pavers, tamp the hardcore and the 51-mm layer of sharp sand. For even better results, utilise a vibrating plate compactor.
What kind of flooring is ideal for a patio outside?
What you prefer will determine the response.
You might be asking which option is the most affordable, in which case you should go with gravel, poured concrete, or the least expensive paving slabs you can locate.
Alternately, you might mean which complements your home better, in which case use complementary brick or stone.
Or, if stone is the most resilient material, then stone is the greatest.
Locate a Local Patio Installer
Your living room will typically extend outside if you build a patio in your garden. In addition to having a location to unwind or host events on a sunny day, you can also make it simpler to sell your house. A lot of folks create their own. However, if you don’t mind spending money on a patio, you’ll discover that one that has been well built lasts a lot longer and frequently looks far better.
Fill out the form on this page to receive three or four estimates from patio installers in your area. then decide which one you like most.
