In depth
Everything worth knowing before you book.
The details a salesperson skips. Skim it, or read every word, both are useful.
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Patios, natural stone, porcelain and concrete
We lay Indian sandstone, limestone, granite, porcelain (20–30mm), and high-end concrete flags (Marshalls, Bradstone). Every patio sits on 150mm of compacted MOT type 1 over a geotextile membrane, then a full mortar bed (4:1 sharp sand to cement), never spot-bedded, which is the single biggest cause of slabs rocking and cracking. Joints are 8–10mm, pointed with a jointing mortar suited to the slab (Geo-fix, Romex, NCC streetscape) so they don't stain the surface.
Driveways, block paving and resin-bonded
Block-paved driveways sit on 200mm of MOT type 1 plus 30–40mm of screed sand, kerbed with concrete edgings haunched both sides, and finished with kiln-dried sand swept and vibrated into the joints. Resin-bonded drives are laid over a structurally sound base (existing tarmac or new concrete) with UV-stable resin and washed quartz aggregate at 18–22kg/m². Both finish levels are checked with a string line so the surface drains correctly and doesn't pond.
Fencing, gates and timber screening
Fence posts go into the ground at minimum 600mm (1m for 1.8m+ panels) on a 100mm gravel base for drainage, then concreted with post-mix to a domed top so water runs off. Closeboard, lap or slatted panels fixed to arris rails with stainless or galvanised nails. Gates hung on proper Tee-hinges or band-and-hook to braced frames, with drop bolts or slam locks as needed.
Decking, pergolas and outdoor living
Substructure in pressure-treated 4×2 or 6×2 joists at 400mm centres on adjustable pedestals or concrete pads. Visible deck boards in hardwood (iroko, balau) or quality composite (Trex, Millboard) fixed with stainless or hidden clips, no exposed screws. Pergolas built to take real load, with proper post-anchors and stainless fixings throughout.
Drainage, retaining and groundworks
Linear ACO drains across patio edges and driveway thresholds, connected to proper soakaways at the back of the plot (sized per BRE Digest 365). Retaining walls over 600mm built with poured concrete or reinforced blockwork, weep holes every 1.5m, and a French drain behind the wall to prevent hydrostatic pressure build-up. Garden levelling carried out with structural confidence, not just topsoil over a slope.
