A patio is usually an outside space, most regularly in the garden, that is open to the elements. Some patios have an overhead roof and can be both connected to a shape or detached.

The surface of a patio gives it a unique appearance while helping enhance the time we spend outdoors. There are many factors to consider when choosing which patio material type to go for, including location, patio size, budget, colour scheme, personal taste and local building codes.

Gravel Patio

Gravel is perhaps not the first thing most would consider when the idea of laying a new patio is touted, as many people assume that a patio needs a solid and uniform surface. This doesn't necessarily have to be the case; gravel can make for an excellent cost-effective garden patio choice.

If you've been considering laying a new patio or updating an existing one, gravel would be one of the simplest ways to make it happen. Gravel is an inexpensive material that's simple to lay as a patio, and it also offers other positives that can make it a great option. Firstly, the drainage through gravel is excellent meaning water won't pool up on top of your patio following heavy rainfall. It also does a fantastic job of keeping weeds at bay as gravel effectively chokes the weeds which makes it a lot more difficult for them to grow.

All in all, if you're looking to have a cost-effective patio that's quick and relatively simple to install, then gravel is likely to be a very viable option.

Flagstone Patio

Another fantastic option for lovers of decorative patios is flagstone. This is another expensive material but results in a beautiful garden patio that oozes class. There are plenty of different types of flagstones on the market that you can choose from, and they all contain different qualities. Thankfully, a choice of different colours and shades should mean you easily find something that suits your personal preference.

Working with flagstone takes a great deal of skill and craftsmanship, so you'll certainly want to entrust the services of experienced professionals. Many types of flagstones carry significant weight which adds to their overall quality. This doesn't really make them a suitable option for those on a budget and looking to quickly lay down a simple patio and is aimed more towards those who are really looking to add more of the wow factor to their patio space.

Cut Stone Patio

A cut stone patio, also known simply as a stone tile patio, is essentially a collection of stones that are cut into tile shapes so that they can be installed as a patio surface. Like most patio materials, there are a variety of cut stone types that you can choose from, so you'll never be short of options that are best suited to your property and taste. There are incredibly impressive cut stone examples, such as marble, alongside other more practical choices, such as sandstone. Whichever cut stone type you choose; you should be able to find something that works within the most sensible budgets.

Again, there are many cut stone materials to choose from, all meeting a variety of different budgets. This should make it relatively straightforward to find a finish that you like at a cost that makes sense to you. It's a very popular type of patio for many homeowners because it's a surface material that you can't go too far wrong with, and some of the finishes look fantastic so can really add a touch of quality to a garden.

Paver Patio

A paver patio is another popular choice among homeowners as it involves a simple installation process that can be completed in a very short amount of time. The pavers are designed to interlock with each other, creating a visually appealing patio that's no fuss at all.

With numerous styles to choose from there is sure to be a design that suits everyone's taste. Certain finishes can even be somewhat replicated, such as a wooden look, simply by sourcing several options that combine to fit the bill. Some paver patios resemble bricks, others resemble cut stone. It's an extremely versatile patio surface that will always look great upon completion.

This versatility and easy-to-manage option mean that many people use paver patios for a variety of other flooring solutions outside, even something as simple as a pathway. They are convenient to work with and are usually very cost-effective, so you should be able to find something suitable that fits your budget.