How to Build a Raised Patio in the UK: A Complete DIY Guide

Building a raised patio in your UK home offers a beautiful, practical outdoor space where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the fresh air. It’s perfect for homes that have uneven ground or sloping gardens and can elevate your home’s outdoor aesthetic. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to build a raised patio UK style, from planning to execution, ensuring your DIY project goes off without a hitch.

Planning Your Raised Patio

Before diving into the physical work, careful planning is crucial. Building a raised patio requires a clear understanding of your space, budget, and local regulations. In this section, we’ll discuss the benefits of having a raised patio, the importance of planning, and what you should consider before you start.

Benefits of a Raised Patio

A raised patio brings a range of advantages:

• Enhanced Views: By elevating your outdoor space, you can enjoy better views of your garden or surroundings.
• Improved Drainage: Raised patios help with water runoff, particularly in areas with poor drainage.
• Versatility: Perfect for sloped gardens where a level patio might otherwise be difficult to install.

Understanding Local Regulations

Check with your local council before starting construction. In the UK, planning permission may be required depending on the height of your patio and its proximity to boundaries. It’s essential to ensure that your raised patio complies with building regulations to avoid potential issues down the line.

Budgeting and Material Requirements

Budgeting your project is essential. Factors like the size of the patio, materials used, and the need for additional features like retaining walls will impact your overall costs. Make sure you account for all necessary materials and tools when creating your budget.

Tools and Materials Required

Equipping yourself with the right tools and materials is half the battle won. Here’s what you’ll need to complete your raised patio project:

Essential Tools for Building a Raised Patio

• Spade or Shovel: For digging and clearing the ground.
• Spirit Level: Ensures that the patio is perfectly level.
• Plate Compactor: Helps compact the sub-base.
• Trowel and String Line: For precision work.
• Concrete Mixer or Wheelbarrow: Mixing cement for foundations.

Choosing the Right Patio Materials

The materials you select can significantly affect both the look and functionality of your patio. Common choices for raised patios include:

• Concrete Pavers: Affordable and durable.
• Natural Stone: Offers a timeless, high-end look.
• Brick: Ideal for a traditional aesthetic.

Preparing the Site

Proper site preparation is critical for a durable and long-lasting patio. You’ll need to clear and level the area before starting the build.

Measuring the Area

Accurate measurements ensure that you purchase the correct amount of materials. Mark out your patio area with stakes and string lines to visualise the space.

Clearing and Leveling the Ground

Remove any existing turf or plants in the designated area. Then, level the ground as much as possible, ensuring there’s a slight slope for water runoff.

Building a Foundation

The foundation of your raised patio is key to its durability and stability. A well-built foundation will prevent your patio from sinking or cracking over time.

Importance of a Stable Base

A solid base will ensure your patio remains level and firm. Use concrete or hardcore (crushed stone) to create a robust foundation that can support the weight of the patio above.

Using Concrete and Hardcore for Strength

Pour a layer of hardcore to a depth of around 100mm and compact it using a plate compactor. Follow this with a concrete layer to lock everything in place.

Laying the First Layer

Once the foundation is in place, the next step is to start laying the sub-base.

Adding the Sub-Base

The sub-base is a layer of sand or gravel laid on top of the foundation. Spread it evenly and use the plate compactor to press it down, ensuring a firm, level surface for the pavers.

Compacting for Stability

Compact the sub-base multiple times to remove any air pockets and ensure the surface is stable. This is crucial to avoid any movement in your patio slabs.

Setting the Retaining Walls

Raised patios often require retaining walls to hold back the surrounding soil and provide structure to the elevated patio.

Choosing Retaining Wall Materials

Materials for your retaining wall will depend on your budget and aesthetic preference. Common choices include:

• Brick: For a classic look.
• Timber Sleepers: These are great for a more rustic, garden feel.
• Concrete Blocks: Strong and easy to work with.

Constructing the Wall Properly

Lay the first course of blocks or bricks in mortar. Use a spirit level to ensure they are straight and level. Continue building the wall to the required height, making sure it stays level throughout.

How to Lay a Raised Patio

Now comes the exciting part—laying the patio pavers!

Placing Pavers on the Base

Start at one corner and work your way across the patio. Lay the pavers in your desired pattern, ensuring consistent spacing between them. Use spacers if necessary to keep the gaps even.

Ensuring Correct Spacing

The spacing between each paver should be uniform to create a professional look. A 5mm gap between pavers is typically recommended. Once the pavers are in place, fill the gaps with sand or a similar filler.

DIY Raised Patio vs. Hiring a Professional

Is this a project you should tackle yourself, or is it better to hire a professional?

Benefits of DIY

• Cost Savings: You can save significantly on labour costs.
• Personal Satisfaction: Completing a DIY patio offers a huge sense of achievement.

When to Call in the Experts

While a DIY approach can be satisfying, hiring a professional might be necessary for more complex builds, especially if your patio requires retaining walls or sits on a significant slope.

Finishing Touches

With the main construction complete, it’s time to add some finishing touches.

Edging and Sealing the Patio

Edge the patio with decorative bricks or stones to give it a polished look. You should also consider sealing the patio to protect it from weather damage.

Adding Steps or Ramps for Accessibility

If your patio is significantly elevated, you’ll need to install steps or ramps for easy access.

Raised Patio Against House UK

When building a raised patio adjacent to your home, special considerations are required.

How to Ensure Proper Drainage

Make sure the patio slopes away from your home to avoid water pooling against the foundation. Installing a drainage system may be necessary to prevent water damage.

Securing the Patio to Your House Wall

For patios against the house, ensure they are securely fastened to the building using appropriate anchors and ensure waterproofing is considered to avoid leaks.

Best Paving Materials for Raised Patios in the UK

Choosing the right material is essential for durability and aesthetics.

Popular Choices: Brick, Concrete, Natural Stone

• Brick: Offers a traditional, charming look.
• Concrete: Durable and affordable, concrete is an excellent choice for modern homes.
• Natural Stone: Although more expensive, natural stone provides a timeless, elegant appearance.

Drainage Considerations

Ensuring Water Flows Away from Your House

One of the most critical aspects of building a raised patio is ensuring proper drainage. Water should flow away from your home to prevent damage to the foundations.

Installing Drainage Systems

You may need to install drainage pipes or a French drain system to divert water away from the patio.

How to Build a Raised Patio on a Slope

Building a raised patio on a sloped garden presents unique challenges, but it’s definitely achievable.

Tackling Sloped Gardens

Use retaining walls to create a level base for the patio. Depending on the severity of the slope, you may need multiple retaining walls at different heights.

Best Practices for Uneven Terrain

Compact the sub-base thoroughly to prevent settling over time, and ensure that the retaining walls are structurally sound.

Maintenance of a Raised Patio

Once your raised patio is complete, proper maintenance will ensure its longevity.

Cleaning and Sealing Your Patio

Regular cleaning will keep your patio looking fresh. Consider sealing the surface to protect it from weathering and stains.

Repairing Cracks and Settling

If cracks or settling occur, address these issues promptly to avoid further damage.

Frequently Asked questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need planning permission for a raised patio in the UK

A: You may need planning permission if your patio is more than 30cm high or near a boundary. Check with your local council.

Q: How long does it take to build a raised patio?

A: Depending on the size and complexity, it can take anywhere from a weekend to a couple of weeks.

Q: Can I build a raised patio on my own?

A: Yes, with the right tools and materials, a DIY raised patio is achievable.

Q: What’s the best material for a raised patio?

A: Concrete is affordable and durable, while natural stone offers a high-end look.

Q: How much does it cost to build a raised patio?

A: The cost varies depending on size, materials, and labour. Expect to pay between £50 and £100 per square metre for materials.

Conclusion

Building a raised patio is an excellent way to maximise your outdoor space in the UK. Whether you're tackling the project yourself or hiring a professional, this guide provides you with everything you need to know to get started. With the right materials, careful planning, and attention to detail, you’ll have a stunning raised patio to enjoy for years to come.