A well-built patio should last 20 or 30 years with minimal attention. The difference between one that does and one that lifts, cracks or stains within a few seasons almost always comes down to what is underneath. We take the sub-base seriously. Every patio we lay starts with a proper excavation, the right depth of compacted sub-base material and a correctly prepared bedding course before a single slab goes down. Choosing between porcelain and natural stone is the most common decision customers face, and there is no single right answer. It depends on the style of the garden, how much maintenance you are prepared to do and your budget. We talk through both options at the initial visit and can bring samples along so you can see the finish in your own garden rather than guessing from a brochure. Norfolk winters are not severe, but frost matters. If you are considering cheaper imported natural stone, it is worth checking the frost rating. We are careful about where we source materials and will tell you honestly if we think a particular product is unsuitable for outdoor use in this climate.
What's included
- Site excavation to correct depth
- Compacted hardcore sub-base
- Sharp sand or mortar bedding course
- Slab laying with proper falls for drainage
- Edge restraints
- Pointing with jointing compound or mortar
- Sealing advice for natural stone
- Waste removal
How We Work
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Site assessment
We check levels, drainage routes, any underground services and access for machinery. We agree the exact footprint and falls.
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Excavation and sub-base
We excavate to the correct depth for the slab thickness plus sub-base and bedding course, then compact thoroughly.
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Laying course
We prepare a sharp sand or full mortar bed depending on the slab type. Porcelain requires a full mortar bed; natural stone can go on sharp sand with mortar spot.
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Slab installation
Slabs are laid to the agreed pattern with consistent joint gaps and proper falls away from the house.
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Pointing and finishing
We use flexible jointing compound for porcelain and traditional mortar for natural stone. We clean the surface and remove all waste before we leave.
Materials and Options
Porcelain is the most popular choice at the moment and for good reason. It is very hard, frost resistant, barely absorbs any water and the surface does not stain easily. It comes in a wide range of formats and finishes, including realistic stone and wood effects. The downside is it needs cutting with a specialist disc and requires a full mortar bed throughout, which adds to the laying cost. Natural sandstone gives you a warmer, more traditional look and each slab is slightly different in tone and texture. It needs sealing after laying and will need re-pointing over time as the mortar weathers. Slate and granite are also options for specific styles and suit certain house types very well. For Norfolk winters, frost rating matters. Porcelain rates very well across the board. Some cheaper imported sandstone does not perform as reliably, so we are careful about where we source natural stone and will only recommend products we are confident in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question not answered here? Get in touch and we will be happy to help.
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Free, no-obligation quotes. We cover Norfolk and Suffolk.
What Our Customers Say
Genuine reviews from clients across Norfolk and Suffolk
"Hilton and Green did an amazing job transforming the space next to our new In summer house. Not easy as the land sloped away badly. Very hard working and professional men. Four years on it is still as good as new. Thoroughly recommend them."
"Hilton and Green did an amazing job transforming the space next to our new In summer house. Not easy as the land sloped away badly. Very hard working and professional men. Four years on it is still as good as new. Thoroughly recommend them."
"These guys did my drive for me understanding that I had a pretty low budget, did a great job and final cost was even less than I had planned for."
We cover Norwich, Wymondham, Attleborough, Diss, Long Stratton, Bungay, Beccles, Halesworth, Eye, Harleston and the surrounding areas of Norfolk and Suffolk. See our areas we cover page for more detail.