Choose for use as well as appearance
A patio used for dining needs different priorities from a decorative path or a heavily used family space. Consider grip, staining, furniture, cleaning and how the material will weather.
Everso Local advice · Patios & Paving
Choosing a patio or paving: the practical things that matter
How to think about paving materials, drainage, levels, preparation and long-term maintenance before starting a patio project. This guide is designed to help you have a better first conversation and make a more informed decision, not to replace assessment by an appropriately competent professional.
Preparation is a major part of the job
A good-looking slab cannot compensate for poor foundations. Excavation depth, sub-base, falls, drainage and edge restraint are important to long-term performance.
Ask where the water will go
New hard surfaces change how rainwater moves around a property. The finished levels and drainage strategy should avoid sending water towards the house or neighbouring property.
Questions customers commonly ask
Why do paving quotes vary so much?
Preparation, excavation, access, drainage, sub-base specification, laying method and the paving itself can vary significantly between jobs.
Should a patio be completely level?
Usually it needs carefully planned falls so water can drain, while still looking and feeling level in normal use.