PROFESSIONAL PATIO INSTALLERS

TM Contractors designs and installs patios for homes and commercial properties. From excavation and ground preparation through to drainage, paving, edging and pointing, our team manages every stage of the project.

A new patio can create a practical space for outdoor dining, seating and entertaining. It can also provide a clean connection between the house, lawn, pathways and wider garden.

Customers can choose from porcelain paving, Indian sandstone, natural stone, riven slabs and concrete products. Each material offers a different appearance, texture, maintenance level and price point.

During the planning stage, we consider the garden layout, access, drainage, ground levels and intended use. This approach helps us create a patio that looks attractive and works well throughout the year.

Every garden has a different size, shape and layout. For that reason, we design each patio around the property and the way the customer intends to use the space.

Before work begins, our team reviews doors, pathways, lawns, drainage points and nearby walls. We also consider where furniture, planters, barbecues and other outdoor features may sit.

The finished design may use straight lines, curves, contrasting borders or separate paved zones. In addition, steps and retaining walls can help connect areas with different levels.

Where the patio joins the house, we carefully plan finished levels and drainage. This helps create a practical transition while protecting the surrounding property.

Creates outdoor living space

A well-planned patio provides a firm area for seating, dining and entertaining. As a result, you can make better use of the garden during warmer weather.

Improves garden access

Paving creates a clean route between the house, lawn, paths and other garden features. Therefore, the space can remain easier to use throughout the year.

Wide choice of materials

Porcelain, sandstone, concrete and natural stone offer different colours, textures and finishes. This variety makes it easier to match the patio with the property.

Supports different layouts

Patios can suit small courtyards, large gardens and unusually shaped spaces. Furthermore, paving can form steps, paths and separate seating areas.

Easier garden maintenance

A paved area reduces the amount of lawn or planting that needs regular care. Clear edging can also keep soil and gravel away from seating areas.

Complements landscaping

Patios work well alongside fencing, decking, garden walls, lawns and planting beds. Consequently, they can form the centre of a complete garden transformation.

1. Site visit and quotation

First, we discuss your ideas and inspect the proposed patio area. During the visit, our team measures the space, checks access and reviews the existing ground conditions.

Once we understand the project, we explain the recommended work and provide a clear quotation.

2. Patio design and material selection

Next, we help you choose a suitable paving material, colour and layout. We can also discuss borders, steps, pathways and connections with other parts of the garden.

The final design will reflect the property, available space and intended use.

3. Excavation and preparation

Where necessary, our team removes the existing surface and excavates the area to the required depth. We then clear unsuitable material and prepare the ground for the new foundation.

Careful preparation plays a major role in the strength and lifespan of the patio. For that reason, we create a firm and stable base before laying begins.

4. Sub-base and drainage

A suitable compacted sub-base supports the paving and helps prevent movement. Its specification will depend on the ground conditions and paving product.

We also establish appropriate levels and falls to help direct surface water away from the property.

5. Laying the paving

Our installers lay each slab in the agreed pattern and maintain consistent joints throughout the area. Depending on the paving, we may also use a suitable bonding or priming product.

Edging, steps and borders can form part of the installation where required.

6. Jointing and final checks

Finally, we fill and finish the joints using an appropriate material for the paving. Our team then checks the levels, cleans the surface and leaves the work area tidy.

Porcelain paving offers a clean and modern appearance. Its consistent sizing and defined edges make it particularly suitable for contemporary garden designs.

Customers can choose from a broad range of colours, textures and finishes. Options may include stone-effect, concrete-effect and darker modern styles.

Porcelain has a dense surface and generally absorbs less moisture than many natural stones. As a result, it can resist staining and weathering when customers maintain it correctly.

However, porcelain requires careful preparation and installation. The slabs need a suitable base, full mortar coverage and appropriate bonding products.

Modern appearance

Porcelain creates a neat and uniform finish. Therefore, it suits modern homes and structured garden layouts.

Consistent sizing

Manufactured slabs usually have precise dimensions and straight edges. This allows installers to create clean lines and regular joints.

Wide choice of designs

Porcelain comes in many colours and surface styles. Consequently, customers can choose a finish that complements the property and surrounding landscaping.

Relatively low maintenance

Regular sweeping and occasional washing will help keep the surface clean. The dense finish can also make general maintenance more straightforward.

Suitable for indoor-to-outdoor designs

Some product ranges include coordinating indoor and outdoor tiles. This can help create a consistent appearance through patio doors, subject to suitable levels and installation.

Indian sandstone remains a popular choice for traditional and natural-looking patios. Each slab can include variations in colour, tone and surface texture.

Common colour blends include warm browns, buff shades, greys and mixed natural tones. These variations give the finished patio a more individual appearance.

Sandstone works well in both formal and relaxed garden layouts. It can also complement brick walls, lawns, timber fencing and established planting.

Because natural stone varies from slab to slab, careful sorting and laying help create a balanced finish across the patio.

Natural character

Each sandstone slab has its own colour and markings. As a result, the finished patio has a varied and natural appearance.

Traditional style

Sandstone often complements older homes, brick properties and informal gardens. However, grey blends can also work well in more modern settings.

Different laying patterns

Customers can choose single-size slabs or mixed-size patio packs. Mixed layouts can create a more traditional and varied design.

Works with other landscaping

Sandstone can coordinate with garden walls, steps, paths and raised beds. Matching or contrasting edging may also define the patio.

Broad colour selection

Several natural colour families are commonly available. Therefore, customers can select a blend that suits the house and surrounding garden.

Riven paving has a textured surface designed to create a natural stone appearance. It suits patios, garden paths and traditional outdoor spaces.

The variation across the surface can add depth and character. In addition, mixed slab sizes may create a more informal and established look.

Riven products are available in both natural stone and manufactured concrete ranges. The right option will depend on the desired finish, maintenance needs and budget.

Careful laying helps maintain comfortable levels while preserving the character of the textured surface.

Concrete paving provides a practical option for patios and paths. It comes in a wide range of shapes, colours and surface textures.

Standard concrete slabs can offer a cost-effective finish for straightforward garden projects. Decorative ranges, by contrast, may imitate natural stone or provide more detailed edges.

Because manufacturers produce the slabs to set dimensions, concrete paving can create a consistent layout. However, product quality and appearance vary between ranges.

During the quotation, our team can explain suitable options based on the garden, budget and intended design.

Natural stone can create a distinctive patio with colour and texture that varies between slabs. Options may include sandstone, limestone and other suitable paving stones.

The final appearance will depend on the stone type, finish and laying pattern. Some products have a rustic surface, while others offer a smoother or more refined look.

Natural stone may require suitable sealing or specialist cleaning depending on the product. Therefore, customers should follow the care guidance for the selected material.

Our team can explain how each option may look and perform within the proposed garden design.

Borders can frame a patio and separate it from lawns, planting beds or gravel. They can also add contrast to a large paved area.

Block paving, setts, kerbs and contrasting slabs may all provide suitable edging. The best option will depend on the main patio material and surrounding features.

Secure edging also helps support the paving and maintain a clear boundary. Therefore, it forms an important part of many patio installations.

Customers may choose a subtle matching border or a stronger contrasting colour.

Steps can connect patios with lawns, doors and other garden levels. They may also form part of a raised seating area or terraced layout.

The tread material can match the main patio or provide a contrasting feature. Brick, block paving and coping products can also create the risers and edges.

Comfortable dimensions and secure construction remain important. In addition, the surface should provide suitable grip for outdoor use.

Where required, walls or balustrades can support the design and improve safety around raised areas.

Good drainage helps protect the patio and surrounding property. Therefore, we plan levels and falls before laying the paving.

The surface may direct water towards the garden, drainage channels or another suitable point. The correct solution will depend on the garden layout and existing drainage.

Where a patio sits close to the house, finished levels need particular attention. Poorly planned paving may allow water to collect near walls or entrances.

Our team will review the area and explain any drainage measures included in the quotation.

The right patio size will depend on how you intend to use the area. A dining table and chairs, for example, need enough space for people to move around comfortably.

Larger gardens may benefit from more than one paved zone. One area could support dining, while another creates a quieter seating space.

Curved edges can soften the appearance of a garden. Straight lines, by contrast, often suit modern properties and porcelain paving.

Planting beds, raised borders and garden walls can also help frame the patio and connect it with the wider landscape.

Regular sweeping will remove leaves, soil and loose debris from the paving. Occasional washing can also help maintain the appearance.

The correct cleaning method will depend on the paving material. Harsh chemicals or excessive pressure may damage some surfaces and joints.

Weeds and moss should receive attention before they spread. Jointing material may also need repair or replacement over time.

Natural stone and some concrete products may benefit from a suitable sealer. However, customers should confirm compatibility before applying any treatment.

Loose slabs, failed joints and poor drainage can affect older patios. In some cases, local repairs may restore the surface.

However, widespread movement or an unsuitable base may require more extensive lifting and re-laying. A full replacement can also provide an opportunity to improve the layout and drainage.

During the site visit, our team can assess the existing patio and explain the practical options.

Addressing loose or uneven slabs promptly can also reduce trip risks and prevent further movement.

A patio can form the centre of a wider landscaping project. It may connect with new lawns, fencing, paths, walls, steps or decking.

Planning all the features together helps create a consistent design. It also allows levels and drainage to work across the whole garden.

Our team can manage the project from clearance and groundwork through to paving and final landscaping.

Whether you want a modern porcelain terrace or a traditional sandstone garden, we can tailor the design to your property.

• Experienced installers: We complete patio, paving and landscaping projects for many types of property.
• Wide material choice: Customers can choose from porcelain, sandstone, natural stone, riven and concrete paving.
• Complete installation: Our team handles excavation, preparation, drainage, paving, edging and jointing.
• Tailored designs: Each patio reflects the garden, available space and intended use.
• Clear quotations: Customers receive a straightforward explanation of the proposed work and costs.
• Guaranteed work: A written guarantee provides additional peace of mind.

Contact TM Contractors to discuss a new porcelain, sandstone, natural stone or concrete patio. Our team can advise you on materials, colours, drainage, edging and layout options.

Services cover Northampton, Corby, Kettering, Market Harborough, Wellingborough, Peterborough and nearby areas.

To request a free quotation, call us today or complete the enquiry form.