A guide of the process of hiring a tradesman to lay a patio, including the costs of labour and materials.
Laying a patio in your garden area is a great way to increase usable outdoor space, and enjoyable space. Depending on the material of pavers chosen, where you plan on laying the patio, and the size of available space you have at your discretion, this project can take on a number of different paths.
Whether you plan on doing a small DIY project or hiring a licensed contractor to pave and lay down the new patio, you must first prep the space. So, let’s consider what goes into designing and building, that perfect outdoor oasis you want to enjoy.
Careful consideration of where the patio will go is of utmost concern. The reason being is that it is a permanent fixture; once you place it, you can move it around. So, measure spaces, usable room, and clearance space, so you properly place and affix your new patio.
Make detailed plans. Measure movable space, pieces, and consider additions you will add around it. Gardening, new trees, plants, shrubs, a play-set for the kids. These are a few additions which can go around the patio. So, prior to construction, fully detail your layout, and what you plan on doing with the patio, and around it.
Leveling work should be checked prior to construction. This ensures your patio is secure, won’t move, shift, or otherwise crumble with too much weight. Once all of these details are hashed out, you are ready to begin the construction phase.
The problem of the foundation is a big concern. More so because of the costs associated with doing leveling work, if it is necessary. You have to check the ground-work before you start construction. A survey of your property will let you know which issues exist, and what steps have to be taken to remedy them. Leveling is one you simply can’t get around.
Material costs are another concern. Depending on the type of patio you plan on laying, the costs can rise. And, hiring a professional to build and install it, can add up in costs quickly. So, assess alternatives. Consider similar, cheaper materials. Consider a smaller frame or fewer additions. These simple modifications can make a huge difference, in the price you will pay for your patio.
Time constraints might be in place. If you need the project completed in 1-2-weeks, not all contractors will guarantee this. So, discuss your options, find out how long it will take, and properly allow for the patio to be laid, outside of the home.
Gardening is a great addition. New trees, shrubs, and floral beds are going to make a huge impact around your new patio. Consider hiring landscape teams to assess the space, and design an outdoor oasis you and family/friends, will truly enjoy.
If you plan on adding a fire pit, cooking tools, or running water, these should be part of the layout plan when laying out your new patio. You need to hire contractors who can add running wires, lines for plumbing, and other essential outlets. Take your time in choosing professionals who have this experience and knowledge, to avoid any issues down the road with these projects.
If you hire a contractor, they will charge a flat daily labour fee ranging from £200-300. Additionally, cost of design, installation, materials, and “extras,” will quickly add up. A new patio can easily surpass £3000-£5000, in no time at all. Discuss the details. Allocate a budget for the project, and make sure you have a written quote, detailing everything you are paying for.
Completion of your new patio can take anywhere from 1-week, to more than 1-month. Projects requiring leveling, installing piping or electricity, or even adding new gas lines, can take time to begin, and ultimately complete. Therefore, discuss all options with your contractors. Learn about viable alternatives (such as fire pits or portable grills), and find areas where you can cut back (on cost and duration), so you can have your dream patio ready to go as soon as possible.
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Here is a list of commonly asked questions in regards to having a patio installed.
A small space, 5X10 sq. metres or similar size might be a DIY project is something certain homeowners can tackle. Apart from this, complexities will arise. So, make sure you know exactly what goes into construction before you attempt this project. You don’t want to get in over your head, so really do your research prior to attempting to lay out your own patio.
A wood-base, vinyl, or other materials can be used in constructing the patio. In addition to this, plaster, cement, and other equipment will be used below the deck. Depending on additional features/design work, other material costs may arise during the construction of the new patio.
On the lower end, set aside about 2-weeks for a simple project. Large, more complex patios, can easily take 1-month or longer to complete. So, allocate the necessary time to complete this construction outside the home.
Yes. If you want to install plumbing lines, water lines, gas, or electric wiring, this can be included in the patio design. Of course, it will require certain permits, take more time to complete, and will obviously end up costing more money to complete the construction. But, a fully functional kitchen is something which can be added to your patio.
You are best served hiring specialists who do patio installation. Make sure you hire licensed technicians, who have years of experience. Choose companies which are honest, have a good reputation, and provide you with detailed quotes, listing out every cost assessed for the construction. This way you won’t run into surprises or end up getting in over your head with a project you can’t afford to pay for.
