Now is a good time to start thinking about how you might want to improve your outside space so you are ready for the warmer weather. Typically paving and landscaping companies tend to get busy from February onwards as the weather starts to improve and we all start to dream of those warm summer evenings in the garden. There is a lot of preparation that goes into redesigning an outside space and so it is best to get booked in early to secure your project.

 

  1. Preparation is the key to success

The more time you spend in the beginning, the more cost-effective your project will be. Take time to consider what you want from your outside area, how you use it at present and how you would like to use it in the future. Don’t forget to consider where the sun is at different points in the day and to make the most of the whole area.

 

  1. Take your time

The design process is really important, and it is worth investing some time making the most important decisions – take your time and discuss with your partner and contractor. Your contractor will consider the project with a different perspective using their own experience and skills to help you get the most out of your outside space. Think about how much time you spend in the garden and how much time you are willing to spend maintaining it. There is no point investing in hundreds of shrubs and plants that require lots of maintenance if you have little time or interest in gardening – if this is the case you should probably consider something much lower maintenance.

 

  1. Preparation is the key to success

No it’s not a typo, I have written this twice because you not only prepare before the project starts, you also need to prepare the area before you begin building or landscaping. This involves thinking about appropriate drainage and groundworks, and how you are going to remove any waste from site. Application of appropriate membranes, drainage considerations plus the input of someone with a good level of experience will ensure you create something that stands the test of time.

 

  1. Industry Standards

So much more goes into creating an outside space than most people realise. As an approved contractor it is our job to ensure we are working to industry standards, and considering factors such as the correct depths and sub-bases required for laying a patio or the correct depth of footings when building walls and retaining walls.

 

  1. Experience can’t be bought

Another cliché, but a good one. By paying a contractor, you are also paying for their experience. They will consider things you might not have, for example the direction of the sun, prevailing winds and therefore where might be most suitable for a seating area.

 

  1. The job

Once you have done all the planning you are ready to start your project. There are many stages to the project, here are some areas to consider:

 

  • Excavation – levelling out the area, setting out where all the different elements will be
  • Drainage – so important to avowing puddling and flooding
  • Products – try and get the best quality you can afford, think about the durability and maintenance and with slabs, buy UV stabilised products so they won’t fade over time. You should also consider how easily they will clean and how easily they might attract moss. Some products require more maintenance or can become slippery when wet, so it is a good idea to consider all of these factors when choosing your product – not just the one that looks the best! Some products will also require sealing to help maintain and improve longevity. As a Marshall’s approved contractor we love working with their products (although of course we are happy to work with other brands). This is because they select products that are designed to withstand the British climate. We would be more than happy to advise and discuss product choices with you based on your requirements and considerations.
  • Installation

To give an idea of budget, the cost of paving normally represents about 20% of the cost of the overall job. This highlights the amount of work required in preparing, installing and finishing a garden project. The installation phase normally runs pretty smoothly if you’ve put the work into the preparation phase.

 

  • Finishing touches

To ensure your project looks high quality, we spend time on the finishing touches, ensuring the pointing looks good. Clearing the site, leaving it neat and tidy so you are then ready to enjoy your beautiful outside space.

 

If you are considering improving your outside space, and would like to discuss your plans or for us to review a design and provide a quote, please get in touch, we are happy to help.