It's well documented that the cost of a patio can vary dramatically based a whole host of factors. So much so that it is next to impossible to guess how much a full makeover is going to cost you.
Factors that can affect cost:
- Location - Location plays a significant role in the cost of materials and labor. For instance, prices in urban areas like London tend to be higher than in rural areas. This is due to factors like the higher cost of living, increased demand for services, and sometimes even transportation costs for materials.
- Size of the Patio - larger the patio, the more materials and labor will be required. This directly impacts the overall cost. A spacious patio not only demands more slabs but also requires more groundwork and preparation, thus increasing both material and labor expenses.
- Choice of Slab - The type of paving slab you choose can significantly influence the cost. Options like Indian sandstone, limestone, or porcelain vary in price, with some materials being more premium and hence more expensive. Each material comes with its own set of advantages, aesthetic appeal, and longevity, all of which factor into its cost.
- Soil Condition - The nature of the ground where the patio is to be laid can affect costs. For instance, laying a patio on soft clay may require additional groundwork to stabilize the area compared to laying it on normal soil. This might include the need for extra sub-base materials or even drainage solutions.
- Access to the Garden - The ease with which workers and materials can access the site can impact the cost. For example, if materials have to be carried through a house due to lack of external access, this can add to the labor hours and hence the cost. Conversely, easy access through a wide gate can reduce labor time and costs.
- Additional Features - elements like raised beds, steps, or special landscaping features will add to the cost. These extras require additional materials and labor, and the complexity of these features can also influence the overall budget.
Given these varying factors, it's essential to have a guide figure in mind before you start obtaining quotes for your project. To assist with this, we've created a Patio Cost Calculator. This tool provides a rough estimate by taking into account the average price per square meter of slabs, along with the typical cost of professional landscaping services in your area (if you opt for professional installation, which is recommended).
Simply input the dimensions of your desired patio, select who will be performing the work, and enter your location to receive a rough guide price. While this tool offers a useful starting point, it's important to remember that this is just an estimate. A professional landscaper will be able to provide a more accurate quote after assessing your specific situation, taking into account all the unique factors of your space. This guide price, however, gives you a baseline for understanding what your patio project might cost.
Remember, every project is unique, and the final cost may vary based on the specific requirements and challenges of your space.
For a more in-depth look, check out our costs of laying a patio guide.
The calculator uses the average price per m2 of slabs, along with the average cost of a professional landscaper to supply and lay in your area, if this is the avenue you are going down (recommended).
Simply plug in the length and width of your desired patio, select who is going to be doing the work and then your location - and you will get a rough guide price for the work.
Use our UK Patio Cost Calculator Below
