Tips & Tricks

How to Lay a Patio (Step-by-Step Guide)

Learn how to lay a patio using porcelain, concrete slabs, or sandstone paving. This complete guide covers traditional cement methods and modern techniques for a professional, long-lasting finish.

Tools & Materials

•  Spade, rake, spirit level, rubber mallet, plate compactor

•  Porcelain paving, sandstone slabs, concrete slabs, MOT Type 1 sub-base, sharp sand, cement, flexible jointing compound, weed membrane

Step-by-Step Patio Installation

1.  Planning & Excavation – Design your patio with adequate drainage. Excavate 150-200mm deep.

2.  Weed Membrane & Sub-Base – Install membrane and compact 100-150mm of MOT Type 1.

3.  Sand & Cement Bedding – Mix sharp sand with cement (4:1 ratio) or use a sand bed. Level carefully for porcelain, sandstone, or concrete slabs.

4.  Lay the Paving – Start from a straight edge. Place porcelain, sandstone, or concrete slabs on the bedding. Use spacers and check levels frequently.

5.  Jointing – Fill joints with flexible compound or sand-cement mix after the slabs have set.

Pro Tips

Sandstone and porcelain are popular choices for UK patios. Both offer natural beauty, but sandstone requires sealing for stain resistance while porcelain is virtually maintenance-free and frost resistant.