How should we rebuild our patio?

Roger1

We have a south-facing patio from our lounge - about 6m x 2m - with steps down to the garden, 2m below. The patio and steps have become uneven. The house in north London suburbs dates from 1935 and shows no other sign of movement.

We want to rebuild the patio and steps but have no idea how to go about it. I had thought of seeking advice from local house agents. (We have no immediate intention of selling.) May I please seek the advice of MSEers?

We would need to remove the existing patio, approx 7m x 3m x 2m, not a d-i-y job. Amongst our thoughts:

• do we need to involve the council?
• best way to find suitable contractors?
• would an architect be useful?
• in principle, what would be the best time of year to do this, assuming availability of contractors and materials?

Many thanks for your advice.

getmore4less

If the retaining wall is still good a lift, level, lay the same slabs may be possible.

If you want a change it will be a bigger job.

Roger1

Thanks, getmore4less.

There are a couple of cracks in the retaining wall (at the side overlooking shared drive space) so I'm thinking replacement will be more effective.

stuart45

How tall is the retaining wall?

Roger1

stuart45 wrote: »

How tall is the retaining wall?

About 2m.

stuart45

Anything over 1 metre needs a proper design.

Roger1

stuart45 wrote: »

Anything over 1 metre needs a proper design.

Thanks. Would you have any comment on my earlier questions?
- do we need to involve the council?
- best way to find suitable contractors?
- would an architect be useful?
- in principle, what would be the best time of year to do this, assuming availability of contractors and materials?

Thank you.

stuart45

Is it possible to put some photos from various angles on? This would be quite helpful for advice.
Finding the right contractor is normally best from word of mouth. Probably early spring is the ideal time to start. Don't think you would really need an architect if you are mainly rebuilding similar to existing.
Getting the retaining wall right with the correct drainage behind is probably the most important part,
as well as making sure the steps have the correct rise and going.
Our local building control would want to check the work if they were informed about it, so it might be worth giving them a call for some info (depends whether or not you want them involved).

Roger1

thanks, Stuart. Very useful info.

I'll start asking around. I'll also check whether I can add a photo or two.