Indian Sandstone Patio | Wickford

Project Overview

This large-scale landscaping project was undertaken to completely transform a rear garden. The goal was to replace an uneven lawn with a stunning, multi-level Indian sandstone patio, complete with a new brick retaining wall and integrated steps. The project was designed to create a high-quality, durable, and expansive outdoor living space for relaxation and entertainment.

Before: The existing garden area was tired and uneven, consisting of mainly patchy lawn and soil. It lacked a defined, usable space for outdoor furniture and socialising. The slope of the garden also presented a challenge, which needed to be addressed to create a practical, level patio area.

After: The transformation is incredible. The garden now features a spacious, elegant, and highly functional Indian sandstone patio. The new retaining wall and steps add character and structure, while the cool grey tones of the stone create a modern and inviting atmosphere. The client now has a perfect outdoor space for dining, relaxing, and entertaining guests.

The Process

Site Excavation
- The first stage involved a full excavation of the existing lawn and soil to the required depth. This created a blank canvas and allowed us to establish the correct levels for drainage and the new patio structure.
Sub-Base Installation
- A heavy-duty MOT Type 1 sub-base was laid and compacted using a wacker plate. This creates a solid, stable, and frost-resistant foundation, which is essential for preventing the patio from sinking or shifting over time.
Construction of Retaining Wall
- To manage the garden’s slope, a new brick retaining wall was constructed. This not only created a level area for the main patio but also added a beautiful structural element, neatly separating the patio from the upper lawn.
Laying the Patio Slabs
- The high-quality, grey Indian sandstone slabs were laid on a full bed of mortar over the compacted sub-base. Each slab was carefully positioned to create a random, multi-sized pattern, ensuring correct falls for surface water drainage. Integrated steps were built into the retaining wall to provide seamless access to the lawn.
Pointing
- Once the slabs were set, all joints were pointed with a durable, dark grey jointing compound. This contrasts beautifully with the lighter tones of the sandstone, defining each slab and preventing weed growth.
Finishing & Cleanup
- The project was finished with the addition of decorative slate chippings around the edges for a clean border. The entire area was then thoroughly washed down, and the site was left clean, tidy, and ready for the client to enjoy.

Conclusion

This project successfully converted an underused garden into a premium outdoor living area. The combination of expert groundwork, quality materials, and skilled craftsmanship has resulted in a stunning and durable patio that has significantly enhanced the property. The client was thrilled with the final result, which exceeded their expectations.