Garden patio and path - cost effective options?

gcoopermax

Hi,

We recently moved in to our house and want to do a bit of makeover of the garden. I have created a 3D layout of the garden so it is easier to explain to the garden landscaping people as shown below:



Originally, I used hard paving for the garden path, however the costs are prohibitive, so the landscaping guy suggested slate chippings for the path. After taking inspiration from images online (one of which is shown below), we also think stepping slabs could be laid over the chippings to give it a bit more colourful look:



Question is - what to use for the slabs? Paving slabs are available in DIY stores (e.g. Wickes) but the description warns that they can't be used for decorative patio. Natural stone could be an option but cheaper softer stones catch algae and get discoloured easily. Harder stones may be too expensive. Any cost effective option that would look good and is also durable?

Silvertabby

We have slabs in gravel around the conservatory. Fine for a low traffic area, but I have to say that constantly sweeping the loose gravel off the slabs (dug up by birds looking for snacks) can be annoying.

We then wanted a path down the side of the garden, leading to a patio. I admit that we did initally consider slabs in gravel, being the cheaper option, but discounted that as the constant tidying up (plus getting loose gravel onto the lawn - already had one greenhouse pane shattered by a stone flicked up by the mower) would have driven me daft.

If you can stretch for all slabs, go for it - we did and haven't regretted it.

ADD: Do those double gates lead to a garage? If so, then have you considered having just gravel there, and solid slabs for the path?

kerri_gt

Our garden wasn't cheap but I seem to recall we looked at these sites for ordering some materials from

https://decorativeaggregates.com/
https://www.stonewarehouse.co.uk/

Also, once you decide on what want and qtya needed, have a look on local FB and Gumtree sites, plus Freegle for sourcing materials cheap / free

Jonesya

I think the bit about those slabs not being suitable for decorative paving, is that they mean this isn't one of their more expensive, decorative products with more control over the appearance and finish, and packaging to prevent any scratches during transit. They're standard, un-fancy, cost-effective paving slabs. So if you like the finish and they're smart enough (all paving slabs weather over time, I doubt there's much difference after a few years), then go for it.

Also you won't lay the slabs onto the chippings, because chippings don't provide a firm base. You'll need the slabs laying onto a suitable base of compacted sand, crushed stone or cement mix. Then lay chippings around and between the slabs.

Really good website on paving, for ideas and info:
http://www.pavingexpert.com/layflag1.htm

Manufacturers page:
https://www.marshalls.co.uk/homeowners/view-richmond-utility-paving

One thing - you may want to consider the smaller slabs, as they are cheaper (per slab, but also on a £/ square meter basis), and they're lighter which can be an issue if you're laying them - larger slabs can be seriously heavy.

https://www.wickes.co.uk/Marshalls-Richmond-Smooth-Natural-450-x-450-x-32-mm-Paving-Slab/p/144650

Or for something basic, but with some stone like texturing:
https://www.wickes.co.uk/Marshalls-Pendle-Riven-Buff-450-x-450-x-32-mm-Paving-Slab/p/210879

getmore4less

I was quite surprised by how cheap some stone was bought bulk.

Loads under £20sqm.