Choosing the right paving for your patio

A patio is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in a garden, and the surface you choose shapes how it looks, how it wears and how much looking after it needs.

The main options

Natural sandstone and limestone are warm and characterful, and weather beautifully, but need sealing and occasional cleaning. Porcelain is almost maintenance-free, stain-resistant and very consistent, though it can feel more contemporary. Clay brick suits period homes and works well for paths and edging.

Think about slip and shade

Shady, damp patios grow algae quickly. Choose a textured finish with good slip resistance, and make sure the patio is laid with a proper fall so water runs off rather than pooling.

Don’t skimp underneath

Whatever you pick, the sub-base matters more than the slab. A compacted, well-drained base with the right bedding for your material is what keeps a patio level for twenty years instead of five.