Material choice
| Material | Strengths | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain | Stain-resistant, uniform, low upkeep | Needs a primer to bond; skilled cutting |
| Indian sandstone | Natural colour variation | Needs sealing; can stain |
| Concrete slabs | Cheapest, hard-wearing | Plainer look |
Checkatrade's patio laying cost guide puts most patios at about £65 to £340 per m² in 2026. Access matters: on a mid-terrace, every slab and bag of sand may have to come through the house or down a back lane.
Terraced back yards
Many of Thornaby's Victorian and Edwardian terraces have enclosed yards with old concrete or broken flags. A yard patio needs:
- Drainage: often a small channel to an existing gully, as there is no lawn to take water.
- Levels: keeping the surface below the damp course at the back wall.
- Access: a gate to the back lane makes the job much easier.
Porcelain suits yards well because it shrugs off moss in shaded corners.
Longer gardens
Semis on the later estates usually have longer gardens. A patio by the house with a path to a second seating area catches sun at different times of day.
The base
A full mortar bed on a compacted sub-base. Slabs laid on five spots of mortar can rock and crack.
Falls
A gentle fall, typically 1 in 60 to 1 in 80, away from the house. Water should never run towards the back door.
Common questions
Does a patio need planning permission?
Not usually at the back of a house. Raised platforms over 30cm high can.
How do I clean porcelain?
Warm water and a soft brush; avoid acid cleaners unless the maker approves.
Can a yard patio go over the old concrete?
Rarely. It raises the level and hides problems.
How long does a patio take?
A typical patio is usually a few days, longer if access is through the house.