A concrete patio is a great option if you want a low-maintenance space to enjoy BBQs, al fresco meals and sociable drinks with friends. Available in a variety of styles and finishes, you can tailor your concrete patio to the loo of your home. But how much will a concrete patio set you back? We’ll go through everything in this guide.

How much does a concrete patio cost?

The cost of a concrete patio in the UK varies depending on factors such as size, design and finish. On average, you can expect to pay £3,700 for a concrete patio.

Factors affecting the cost of a concrete patio

Size and thickness: Larger and thicker concrete patio slabs will require more materials and labour, resulting in higher costs.

Design and finish: Intricate designs, decorative patterns or specialised finishes such as stamping or polishing will increase the cost of the patio.

Site preparation: Additional costs may be incurred for site preparation work such as excavation, levelling and adding a sub-base.

Labour costs: Labour costs for concrete patio installation vary depending on factors such as location, accessibility, expertise of the contractor and the type of concrete you choose to lay.

Where you live: Your location in the country is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost of a concrete patio. Prices tend to be higher than average in London and the south east, while those in Scotland or northern England may pay lower than average.

We’ve used our database of hourly and daily rates for patio and path specialists to create more accurate estimates for concrete patios across the UK. Take a look at the list further down the page and find your local town or city to see how much a new concrete patio could cost in your area.

Types of concrete patio

There are various types of concrete patio materials to choose from, each with their own advantages. Take a look at the different types of concrete patio below:

Imprinted

• Mimics the appearance of natural materials such as stone, slabs or block paving

• Patio specialists use a stamp to imprinted the pattern onto the concrete before it cures

• Offers a decorative and customisable finish suitable for outdoor entertaining areas

Paving slabs

• Prefabricated concrete slabs available in various sizes, shapes, thicknesses and finishes

• Quick and easy to install, offering a versatile and durable patio surface

• Ideal for both traditional or contemporary designs, with options for textured or smooth finishes

Polished

• Achieved by grinding and polishing the surface of cured concrete to a smooth and glossy finish

• Provides a sleek and modern appearance, suitable for indoor and outdoor use

• Requires specialised equipment and skilled craftsmanship for installation

Poured

• Involves pouring liquid concrete into prepared forms or moulds and allowing it to cure.

• Offers a simple and cost-effective patio solution, suitable for large or irregularly-shaped areas.

• Can be customised with additives or surface treatments for extra durability and aesthetic appeal

Pros and cons of concrete patios

As with any home improvement project, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before you decide to go ahead. There are many advantages to concrete patios, as well as some disadvantages to bear in mind:

Pros

• Affordable and cost-effective compared to other patio materials

• Durable and long-lasting, with minimal maintenance required

• Versatile and customisable, with options for various finishes, colours and textures

• Suitable for a wide range of climates and weather conditions

Cons

• Prone to cracking over time, especially if you experience hard frosts or keep heavy furniture on it

• Can be susceptible to staining and discolouration if not properly sealed

• Limited design options compared to materials such as natural stone or brick

• Requires professional installation to ensure proper mixing, pouring and finishing

How long does it take to install a concrete patio?

The time it takes to install a concrete patio depends on factors such as the size, complexity and weather conditions. On average, a simple concrete patio installation will usually take around 3 days, including site preparation, pouring, finishing and curing. However, if you have a large patio or want a very complex design, this may take longer.

You’ll also need to factor in another day or two if your patio contractors will need to break up an old patio before laying the new one.

Is it cheaper to pour your own concrete?

While it may be cheaper to pour your own concrete because you won’t have to pay for labour, in the long term it may end up more costly. If you have to take time off work to pour the concrete, you should factor this into the cost, and it’s likely to take you much longer than a professional.

Plus, professional patio and path specialists have the expertise and equipment to ensure that your concrete patio is poured properly. If you get it wrong, you may see cracks starting to form more quickly or fail to achieve a level surface, which you’ll need to have fixed. A professionally-poured concrete patio is likely to last much longer, and therefore cost less per year than a DIY job.

How long does a concrete patio last?

With proper installation and maintenance, a concrete patio can last for decades. The lifespan of a concrete patio depends on factors such as climate, usage and how much you maintain it, but expect to get at least 25 years from your concrete patio.

As we experience frosts in the UK, this can reduce the lifespan of concrete patios as freeze/thaw cycles can cause concrete to crack. Ensure you have adequate drainage around your patio and try to remove surface water as much as possible to improve its lifespan.

How thick should a concrete patio be?

How thick a concrete patio should be depends on your soil conditions, what you’re going to use it for and potentially any building regulations in your area. However, average domestic patios should be between 75-100mm thick. If you have poor soil or you want to use your patio heavily, it should be at least 100mm thick.

What lasts longer: pavers or poured concrete?

Both pavers and poured concrete can be durable and long-lasting patio options when properly installed and maintained. However, because pavers (or paving slabs) are individual, they have more flexibility in the ground to cope with varying weather conditions, improving their longevity. Plus, if one paver gets damaged, it can be easily removed and replaced.

Poured concrete can crack over time and will need to be replaced entirely; patch fixes look unsightly and generally won’t last long.

Do concrete patio slabs fade?

Concrete patio slabs may fade over time due to exposure to sunlight, weathering and foot traffic. However, proper sealing and periodic maintenance can help minimise fading and preserve the colour and appearance of the patio. Choosing high-quality pigments and sealants can also help prolong the vibrancy of the concrete.

If you want to reduce fading, choose a natural-coloured concrete patio slab, as the fading will take longer and be less noticeable.

Is a concrete patio worth it?

A concrete patio is definitely worth it if you’re looking for a durable, versatile and cost-effective outdoor living space. Concrete patios offer a range of design options, require minimal maintenance, and provide a long-lasting and functional surface for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. With proper installation and care, a concrete patio can add value to your home and enhance your outdoor living experience for years to come.

But as we always say, only you can decide if a concrete patio is worth it! Weigh up the pros and cons of concrete and other patio materials to help you decide whether it’s the right material for you. Then post your job on HaMuch to get quotes from reliable paving specialists to help you make your final decision.

Estimates for common patio and path specialist jobs;

Rates for other trades