If you’re wondering how to lay a patio for beginners, the process is simpler than you might think if you plan ahead and have the right materials to hand. A well installed patio will last a lifetime, and look fantastic.
It adds a clean, practical outdoor space for seating, dining, or entertaining.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through preparation, laying, and finishing, so you can handle anything from a full garden installation or simply just knowing how to lay a small patio.
Things you’ll need:
Must-haves
Paving slabs
Sub-base aggregate (MOT Type 1 or similar)
Sharp sand
Cement
Rubber mallet
Trowel
Shovel
Rake
Spirit level
Tape measure
Optional
String line and pegs
Wheelbarrow
Cement mixer
Jointing compound
How to Lay a Patio On Different Sub-bases
How to lay a patio on grass
If your chosen space is currently turf, strip it back to bare soil. Dig down around 150mm, ensuring the ground is firm and level. Add a 100mm compacted sub-base, followed by 40mm of sharp sand mixed with cement for your mortar bed. Lay your chosen slabs, whether porcelain, textured, or riven, with 10–15mm gaps for jointing.
How to lay a patio on sand
For a dry-lay method, a sharp sand bed can work for light-use areas. Level 40mm of sharp sand over your compacted sub-base. Lay each slab in place, tapping down gently with a mallet. Finish with a kiln-dried sand sweep into the joints. This method works for smaller or temporary patios, but mortar will give better long-term stability.
How to lay a patio on concrete
If you already have a solid concrete base, you can lay directly over it. Clean and level the surface, then apply a thin mortar bed (10–15mm). Press your slabs firmly into place, keeping gaps consistent. Natural stones like sandstone or budget-friendly standard paving slabs can be used for this.
How to lay a patio for beginners step by step
Mark out the area with string lines and pegs.
Excavate to around 150mm depth across the whole space.
Lay your sub-base (100mm), compacting thoroughly.
Spread mortar bed (40mm), mixing 4 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement.
Lay your slabs, tapping into place with a rubber mallet, leaving 10–15mm joints.
Level and slope slightly (about 1:60) to allow water run-off.
Leave to set for at least 24 hours.
Joint the patio with a quality brush-in jointing compound for a clean, secure finish.
How much to lay a patio
DIY costs vary depending on material choice and size. Our standard concrete slabs might start from £7–£20 per m², while more premium patio materials like porcelain can be £35–£60 per m². Factor in sub-base aggregate, sand, cement, and any tool hire. A small 3m x 3m patio in mid-range materials could cost £300–£600 in total.
Final Tip: Don’t Cheap Out
Buy from a local merchant. You’ll avoid inflated retail mark-ups and get the same products used in commercial projects. For advice on materials, sizing, or installation, contact us, or check out our other blog guides for more landscaping tips.