How much does it cost to lay a patio?
Patios are priced by area and material. Enter your patio size below for a region-adjusted estimate including the base.
What laying a patio involves
- 1Excavate and base
Dig out, then lay and compact a sub-base — the foundation that stops the patio sinking or heaving.
- 2Lay and joint
Bed the slabs on mortar, level to a slight fall for drainage, then point the joints.
- 3Edges and drainage
Falls away from the house and, for large areas, drainage or permeable jointing to handle surface water.
A tidy patio and garden lift the photos and the viewing experience on a flip — cheap kerb-appeal relative to the value a good outside space adds. Get the base right; a sunken patio undoes the whole effect.
Patio costs by material (indicative)
| Material | Per m² | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete paving slabs | £80 – £130 | Value option |
| Natural sandstone | £100 – £160 | Popular, characterful |
| Porcelain | £120 – £200 | Premium, low-maintenance |
| Typical 20 m² patio | — | £1,800 – £3,600 |
Includes excavation, sub-base, laying and pointing. Steps, walls and drainage add cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to lay a patio?+
Patio laying typically costs £90–£180 per m² including the sub-base and jointing, so a 20 m² patio is roughly £1,800–£3,600. Porcelain and natural stone cost more than concrete slabs.
How much does patio paving cost per square metre?+
All-in (materials plus labour) usually runs £80–£200 per m² depending on the material — concrete slabs at the lower end, porcelain and premium stone at the top.
Related tools & guides
Want to know how these figures are calculated? See our cost methodology.
Cost figures shown are indicative estimates, not quotations. You are responsible for verifying all costs (obtain contractor quotes) and any figures submitted to a lender. ScopeWise is a documentation tool, not financial, tax, structural or planning advice. HMO compliance prompts are guidance only — confirm requirements with your local council, as standards and licensing vary by authority.