Patios
By far the most popular patio slab at the moment is Indian sandstone, layed in a random style, using four difference sizes. This often provides a contemporary and updated look to existing patios.
While different options of stone may require alternative techniques and materials, we always start with a compacted hardcore base at least 50mm thick. Our slabs are also layed onto a full wet mortar bed.
Decking
Decking is often used when a client has a garden with a significant slope and they require a seating area. It is also useful that it can be raised to the same level as the floor of the house thereby extending the living area when the patio doors are opened. We work with both softwood and hardwood.
All of our deck areas are constructed on a suspended frame. We use 100mm² timber posts and complete the framework with 47mm x 100mm timber joists. All the timber is either bolted or screwed together which ensures a structure that will last for many years.
Composite Decking
Composite decking has increasingly become the most requested form of decking we lay. After thorough research we have settled on using a company called Composite Prime through which we are official Pro Installers. The boards are made from FSC® 100% hardwood flour and recycled plastic.
Fencing
The most common type of fencing we install is featherboard fencing (as in the photo on the left) The advantages are longevity, work well on slopes as the gravel board follows the contour, and the featheredge slats are relatively cheap and easy to replace.
We do work with various types of fence panels too as well as picket fencing, fence screens and trellis fencing.
Planters
Raised planters are a great way of adding height and interest to a flat space. We mainly use treated softwood garden sleepers and green oak garden sleepers.
Pergolas
A pergola is not designed to completely block the sun, but to provide relief from direct sunlight while allowing air to circulate freely. While the beam roof structure will only provide partial shade, you could grow plants across the top, or add a bamboo cover to create a shaded area in the heat of the day. You can add sheer curtains, trellis or fence panels to the sides to make it more enclosed.
Turfing
Laying a lawn from turf is a quick way to get an instant result. It is good for situations where you can't keep off a lawn for the two or three weeks you need with seed. So for people with children or pets, it is often a good option, as you can be back on the lawn within a couple of days of laying.
