A patio is a stylish and functional addition to your outdoor space, providing an area for relaxation, dining and entertaining. With lower maintenance required than decking and often lasting longer, you can enjoy a patio for years to come.

But different patio materials have different costs – find out how much your patio will cost in this guide.

How much does a patio cost?

The cost of a patio in the UK varies depending on factors such as the size, material and complexity of the design. On average, a new patio costs £3,480, depending on material choice and labour costs.

Cost to lay a patio per m²

The cost to lay a patio per square metre is £87, but the final cost will depend on the materials you choose, where you live and more:

Factors affecting the cost of a patio

There are a number of cost factors when it comes to building a new patio:

Material: The choice of material significantly influences the cost of your patio. More expensive materials such as porcelain or natural flagstone will result in higher upfront costs compared to concrete or brick, but they may last longer. That means overall, you may pay less long-term with more expensive materials.

Size and complexity: Larger or more complex patio designs with intricate patterns or features will require more materials and labour, resulting in higher costs. For example, curved patio designs will require more cuts to the slabs or bricks, so labour costs will be higher.

Site preparation: If your garden needs a lot of preparation before a patio can be laid, including excavation, levelling, and drainage installation, your paving specialist will charge more. You may need to hire a landscaper or gardener to help with garden clearance.

Your location: Where you live is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost of your patio. Though our costs above are averages, you’re likely to pay more if you live in London or the south east.

At HaMuch, we’ve used our database of hourly and daily rates to calculate the average cost of a new patio in your local town or city. Take a look at our table further down the page to find your location and get a more accurate idea of how much a new patio will cost in your area.

Types of patio

There are many types of patio material to choose from. Here are some of the most popular patio materials to choose from along with their advantages and disadvantages:

Concrete

Concrete is often used for patios as it’s durable and affordable. You can lay it in one slab, but this is more common for use as a driveway. Pattern imprinted patios are becoming more common, where concrete is poured then stamped with a pattern to make it look like block paving or many other styles.

Pros:

• Affordable: One of the cheapest options available

• Durable: Can last as long as 50 years

• Versatile: Lay slabs or pour into a shape of your choosing

• Available in a variety of colours and finishes: Pattern imprinted or coloured

Cons:

• Can crack over time: Concrete slabs are particularly prone to cracking

• Prone to staining and discolouration: Try to clean up spills as soon as they happen

Porcelain

Porcelain is becoming increasingly popular due to its stunning look and low maintenance requirements.

Pros:

• Durable: Will last for years with proper installation and maintenance

• Low maintenance: Simply sweep or hose down periodically

• Stain, scratch and fade-resistant: It’s still important to clean up spills quickly, but its non-porous nature means porcelain paving is much less likely to stain

Cons:

• Expensive upfront cost: One of the most expensive patio options available today

• Hard to install: Paving specialists may charge more and take longer to install this type of patio

• Slippery when wet: As it’s non-porous, porcelain can become slippery when wet, so it may not be suitable for areas near a hot tub or swimming pool.

Flagstone

Natural flagstone is a popular choice for landscaped gardens as it fits in well within a natural environment. Colour variations give your garden interest.

Pros:

• Natural and rustic appearance: Gives a more traditional look to your garden

• Durable: Can last decades with the right care

• Available in various sizes and shapes: Go for something more uniform or irregular according to your preferences

Cons:

• Can be expensive: Flagstone is usually laid on a concrete base, which is more labour-intensive

• Requires sealing to prevent staining and weathering: Cracks in the joints can appear if not regularly sealed

Brick

Brick, sometimes called block paving, is popular for driveways as well as patios. It has a traditional style and looks great in a variety of gardens.

Pros:

• Classic and timeless: Withstands other trends that come and go

• Durable: With maintenance, brick patios can last for years

• Easy to install and repair: Individual blocks can be replaced when damaged

Cons:

• Limited colour options: Most blocks range from red to grey tones

• Can fade over time: Strong sunlight will increase this process

• Prone to moss and weed growth: They will grow in the cracks, requiring regular weeding and removal.

Indian sandstone

Indian sandstone is becoming more and more popular for its fantastic look and versatility paired with its durability and low maintenance needs.

Pros:

• Natural and attractive appearance: Colours usually vary, providing interest to your garden

• Durable: Can withstand high traffic and heavy furniture

• Available in a range of colours: Whatever look you’re going for, there will be sandstone to match!

Cons:

• Requires sealing to prevent staining: Without this, its porous nature will encourage stains

• Cost: High-quality Indian sandstone can be expensive, especially when from ethical sources

Is decking cheaper than a patio?

In some cases, decking can be cheaper than a patio, especially for basic designs and materials. However, the cost of decking can vary depending on factors such as the type of wood, quality and size of the deck. While decking may have lower upfront costs, it may require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan compared to a well-installed patio.

What is the cheapest patio to install?

If you’re looking for the cheapest paving slab to install, concrete is usually cheapest. It offers a range of design options, including stamped or stained finishes, making it a cost-effective choice if you’re on a budget.

However, the cheapest patio to install overall is gravel, as it requires much less labour and materials. However, you will have to add more gravel over time and weeds will inevitably grow through, so there is more maintenance involved.

Does a new patio add value to your home?

Yes, a well-designed and professionally installed patio can add value to your home by improving the look of your garden and providing additional outdoor living space. A patio enhances the usability and enjoyment of your garden, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing the overall desirability and value of your property.

How can I reduce the cost of my patio?

A new patio can get expensive, but there are things you can do to reduce the cost:

• Choose affordable materials: Concrete or brick/block paving have the lowest upfront cost

• Keep the design simple: Curved designs, intricate patterns and additional features will drive the price up

• DIY some aspects: If you have the time and are able, you could do the site preparation such as clearing and weeding yourself

• Shop around: Don’t go for the first paving specialist you find; get a range of quotes from multiple contractors to find the best price

How long does it take to lay a patio?

The time it takes to lay a patio depends on factors such as the size, complexity and materials used. On average, a professional 40m² patio installation can take between 3 and 4 days to complete, including site preparation, laying the base and materials and finishing touches.

Can you lay a patio yourself?

Yes, it's possible to lay a patio yourself, especially for small or simple designs using materials such as concrete paving slabs or gravel. However, laying a patio requires careful planning, preparation and attention to detail if you want it to look its best. Consider your skills, tools, and available time before you start a DIY patio project, and be prepared to seek professional assistance from a patio installer if needed.

Ready to get quotes for your patio project? Post your job on HaMuch now and we’ll put you in touch with local paving specialists who are happy to help.

Estimates for common patio & path specialist jobs;

Rates for other trades