How Much Does It Cost to Get a Patio Installed?

Understanding Patio Installation Costs and What Affects Your Quote

If you’re considering adding a patio to your home, one of your first questions is likely about cost. The truth is, patio installation costs vary considerably depending on numerous factors. In this guide, we’ll break down what influences pricing, help you understand the different material options available, and give you realistic expectations for your investment in this valuable outdoor space.

The Short Answer

Patio installation costs typically range from £1,500 to £10,000+ depending on size, materials, complexity, and location. However, this wide range reflects the many variables involved. A small, simple patio using basic materials might cost £1,500-£3,000, while a large, intricately designed patio using premium materials can easily exceed £8,000-£10,000.

For a more accurate quote specific to your project, the best approach is to get a free site survey from a professional patio installer. This is what we provide at Mammoth Services—a comprehensive assessment that leads to an honest, detailed quote.

What Factors Affect Patio Installation Costs?

1. Patio Size

Size is one of the most significant cost factors. Larger patios require more materials and labour.

• Small patio (10-15 square metres) – £2,000-£4,000
• Medium patio (15-30 square metres) – £4,000-£7,000
• Large patio (30+ square metres) – £7,000-£15,000+

A 20 square metre patio, roughly the size of a small lounge, represents a typical domestic installation. Scaling up from here, costs increase proportionally with additional materials and labour time.

2. Material Choice

The material you select has a dramatic impact on overall cost. Here’s how common options compare:

Concrete Slabs

• Cost: £20-£40 per square metre
• Best for: Budget-conscious projects, modern aesthetics
• Durability: Good; lasts 10-15 years
• Maintenance: Moderate; can crack, requires occasional sealing

Block Paving

• Cost: £40-£80 per square metre
• Best for: Durability, style, replacing individual blocks
• Durability: Excellent; lasts 20-30+ years
• Maintenance: Easy; individual blocks can be replaced

Natural Stone (Sandstone, Slate, Granite)

• Cost: £80-£150+ per square metre
• Best for: Premium appearance, timeless elegance
• Durability: Excellent; lasts 30+ years
• Maintenance: Moderate; requires occasional sealing

Porcelain Pavers

• Cost: £60-£120 per square metre
• Best for: Contemporary designs, low-maintenance
• Durability: Excellent; extremely weather resistant
• Maintenance: Minimal; very durable finish

Resin Bound Gravel

• Cost: £50-£100 per square metre
• Best for: Modern aesthetics, decorative finishes
• Durability: Good; lasts 7-10 years
• Maintenance: Moderate; requires occasional topping up

3. Ground Preparation and Sub-base

What lies beneath your patio is as important as what’s on top. Poor ground preparation leads to cracking, sinking, and premature failure.

Ground preparation costs typically add £10-£30 per square metre depending on:

• Current ground conditions
• Drainage requirements
• Whether excavation is needed
• The level of compaction required

This is an area where investing more upfront saves money long-term. A properly prepared sub-base with appropriate depth (typically 100-150mm) ensures your patio lasts decades rather than years.

4. Site Accessibility and Complexity

Easy-to-access sites with straightforward, flat areas cost less than:

• Sloped or uneven terrain requiring significant levelling
• Sites with limited access for machinery and materials
• Projects requiring complex drainage solutions
• Areas with existing structures to work around
• Gardens with restricted entry points

Difficult access can add £500-£2,000+ to your project cost.

5. Design Complexity

Simple, rectangular patios cost significantly less than:

• Curved or irregular shapes
• Multi-level patios
• Patterned or decorative designs
• Feature borders or insets
• Complex colour combinations

Intricate designs may add 20-40% to your labour costs, but they create stunning visual impact.

6. Drainage Requirements

Proper drainage is essential but can add cost:

• Simple drainage (standard slope) – included in base cost
• Permeable paving – adds £10-£20 per square metre
• French drains or specialist solutions – adds £500-£2,000+

Permeable solutions are increasingly popular for environmental responsibility and flood prevention, though they do increase initial cost.

7. Additional Features

Beyond the basic patio, you might consider:

• Edging and borders – £5-£15 per linear metre
• Sealing or finishing treatments – £100-£300
• Steps or level changes – £500-£1,500 each
• Lighting installation – £200-£1,000+
• Feature areas or decorative elements – variable

8. Labour Costs

Labour is a significant component of patio installation costs. Factors affecting labour include:

• Local area costs (London and South East typically higher than elsewhere)
• Contractor experience and reputation
• Project complexity
• Time of year (winter projects may cost more due to weather challenges)

Labour typically accounts for 30-50% of your total project cost.

9. Location

Geographical location impacts costs. Installation in:

• London and South East – typically 20-30% higher costs
• Urban areas – generally higher than rural areas
• Areas with difficult access – increased labour costs

Mammoth Services operates in Amersham and surrounding areas, and we provide competitive pricing for the region.

10. Time of Year

Spring and summer – Peak season, standard pricing
Autumn – Good season, competitive pricing
Winter – Off-season, but weather challenges may increase costs or affect schedule

Cost Breakdown Example

To illustrate how costs add up, here’s a realistic example for a 20 square metre block paving patio in Amersham:

This assumes straightforward conditions, good access, and no additional complexities. A similar project with natural stone, difficult access, or complex design could reach £5,000-£7,000.

Cost vs. Value

While upfront cost matters, consider the value your patio provides:

Property Value Addition A quality patio adds an estimated 5-10% to your property value, depending on size and quality. A £3,500 patio might add £10,000-£15,000 to your home’s value.

Extended Living Space You’re creating functional outdoor living space. The cost per square metre is often less than extending your home, while providing similar benefits.

Long-term Durability Investing in quality materials and proper installation means your patio lasts 20-30+ years rather than 10-15. Over time, this represents excellent value.

Reduced Maintenance Quality materials and professional installation mean lower maintenance costs over the life of your patio.

Common Mistakes That Increase Costs

1. Cutting Corners on Sub-base

Skimping on ground preparation leads to repairs and replacement. Invest properly upfront.

2. Choosing Cheap Materials

Budget materials fail quickly, requiring costly replacement. Mid-range to quality materials offer better long-term value.

3. Poor Drainage Planning

Inadequate drainage causes water pooling, damage, and premature failure. Plan properly from the start.

4. Underestimating Complexity

A straightforward quote that doesn’t account for ground conditions can lead to unexpected costs during installation.

5. DIY Installation

While tempting to save labour costs, poor DIY installation leads to costly repairs. Professional installation protects your investment.

Getting an Accurate Quote

The best way to understand what your patio will cost is to get a professional quote. Here’s what to expect from a reputable installer:

• Free Site Survey A proper assessment of your space, ground conditions, and requirements. This should be free and no-obligation.
• Detailed Design 3D visualisation showing your patio design, materials, colours, and final appearance.
• Itemised Quote A breakdown showing materials, labour, preparation, and any additional features.
• Warranty Information Clear explanation of guarantees and what’s covered.
• Timeline Realistic schedule for your project completion.

Why Choose Mammoth Services?

At Mammoth Services, we provide:

• Free, no-obligation site surveys – We visit your property, understand your needs, and provide an honest assessment
• Transparent pricing – Detailed quotes showing exactly what you’re paying for
• 40+ material options – From budget-friendly to premium, from concrete to natural stone
• Marshalls Registered Contractor – Quality guarantee on both materials and workmanship
• 20+ years’ experience – Proven track record of successful projects across Amersham
• Professional installation – Proper sub-base preparation and expert finishing

Next Steps

If you’re considering a patio installation, the first step is simple: contact us for a free site survey and quote.

We’ll visit your property, discuss your vision, assess your space, and provide a detailed, honest quote with no obligation.

Call us on 01494 257555

Or visit our Amersham showroom to explore our full range of patio materials and colours.

FAQs

How long does patio installation take?

Typically 2-10 days depending on size and complexity. We’ll provide a timeline in your quote.

Can you install a patio in winter?

Yes, but weather conditions may affect scheduling. We can work year-round with appropriate precautions.

What warranty do I get?

As Marshalls Registered Contractors, we provide quality guarantee on both materials and workmanship. Details are included in your quote.

Can I get a discount for cash payment?

We offer competitive pricing for all clients. Ask about current promotions when you call for your quote.

How long will my patio last?

With proper installation and maintenance: concrete slabs 10-15 years, block paving 20-30+ years, natural stone 30+ years.