Materials for Patios & Terraces
Paving for a patio or terrace should be hardwearing and provide a non-slip surface in wet weather, such as the ones listed in the table below.
| Material | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Bricks & Pavers | * If the house is also built of brick, this is an excellent way of linking the house and garden together * May be laid in a variety of patterns * Very effective when combined with other materials, such as gravel or railway sleepers |
| Concrete | * Hardwearing * Quick and easy to lay * Its appearance may be modified by adding a textured finish |
| Crazy Paving | * Informal appearance * May be laid on sand to allow plants to grow between the joints |
| Natural Stone | * Attractive finish * More expensive than other options * Can be difficult to lay |
| Paving Slabs | * One of the most popular surfaces for patios and terraces * Slabs are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes and colours * Easy to lay |
| Quarry Tiles | * Made from fired clay * Often used to link outdoor and indoor areas * Can be difficult to cut * Always check that they are frost-resistant before buying |
Whilst the surface should be attractive, it should not be too obtrusive; avoid choosing a material that draws your eye away from your planting or furniture. You may find that you can achieve the best effect by combining a number of textures, such as a brick edging around paving slabs or pavers with stone slabs.