A patio in Barry has to put up with more than most. Salt-laden winds off the Bristol Channel, driving rain and the odd soaking from a neighbour's gutter all test a paved area. We build new patios for Victorian and Edwardian terraces and the 20th century estates here, with a firm base and paving that will wear well.
Our approach is simple: mark it out, dig it properly, compact the base and lay the paving to a fall. We also cover Penarth, Rhoose, Dinas Powys and Sully. If you have a particular corner in mind, we will happily look at it with you.
Coastal weather is hard on surfaces. Damp, salty air encourages algae and moss, and frost can lift any slab that was laid on a poor foundation. In Barry we give the base extra care, taking the ground down to a firm layer, building the sub-base up in compacted stages and setting the paving on a proper bed. Taking that time over the foundations is what stops slabs wobbling after the first winter.
Choice of material matters too. Porcelain is dense and easy to wash down, sandstone-look paving gives a warmer, natural appearance, and real stone suits those who want something a bit more traditional. We talk through how each one behaves in a windy, damp spot so you can pick with your eyes open. None of them needs much upkeep beyond an occasional brush and wash.
Victorian and Edwardian terraces tend to have long, narrow back gardens, while the newer estates offer wider, flatter plots. A long thin garden might suit a patio near the house with a path leading on, whereas a bigger square plot can take a generous entertaining space. We shape the design to suit what you have rather than forcing a standard layout. We always begin by walking the garden and measuring up properly.
Conifers and Leylandii are common in Barry gardens, and their roots and shade can affect where a patio is happiest. We take a look at what is growing nearby, keep the paving clear of problem roots where we can, and let you know if any tree work might help before we begin. That way the patio, the lawn and any borders fit together without awkward gaps or trip hazards.
Once the slabs are down we point the joints, neaten the edges against walls, steps and borders, and sweep the surface clean. All the waste and spoil leaves with us, so you are left with a usable patio in Barry rather than a building site. If you would like a small step or border built in, say so early and we will plan it in.
A few jobs we have completed. We also work in and around Barry.
Patio ConstructionWe cleared the old paving at the back of a Bridgend house, compacted the base and stacked new slabs ready for laying.
See the project →
Patio ConstructionWe laid new grey paving slabs in a narrow Cardiff garden, with timber-edged gravel beds and a membrane-lined side strip.
See the project →
Patio ConstructionWe replaced the front lawn of a red-brick terraced house in Neath with dark grey paving and a pale border of edging stones.
See the project →We work across South Wales. Pick your town to see how patio construction works locally.
Porcelain offers a consistent, low-maintenance surface, while natural stone brings variation and character, and both depend on a properly built base.
Read the guide →The cost of a patio depends on its size, the paving you choose, the ground beneath it and how easily materials and waste can be moved.
Read the guide →
Tree surgery is priced job by job rather than from a fixed list, so this guide explains what moves the cost up or down and how to get a firm figure.
Read the guide →Salt itself is rarely the problem. Damp air encourages algae, and frost can lift slabs laid on a weak base. A well-compacted sub-base, a proper fall for drainage and a surface you can wash down regularly will keep a patio looking tidy.
Both cope well. Porcelain is dense and quick to clean, which helps in a damp, windy garden. Sandstone-look paving has a softer, more natural character. We can show you samples and explain how each wears so you can choose what you like.
It depends on how close the roots are. We check the area first, keep the base clear of major roots where possible and advise if trimming or removal would help. Heavy roots under a patio can heave the paving, so it is worth looking early.
Tell us what needs doing and where. We will come back to you, or call 07766 919630 if it is urgent.