How much does a porcelain patio cost in the UK? Get insights into the costs for materials, installation, and extras to create the perfect outdoor area within your budget.
Average Cost of a Porcelain Patio
The cost of a porcelain patio installation in the UK varies based on the patio’s size, the quality of the materials and the local labour rates. On average, the total cost ranges from £100 to £150 per square metre.
For a standard 20m² patio, this amounts to approximately £2,000 to £3,000 overall. Porcelain slabs alone typically cost between £30 and £60 per square metre, depending on their quality, design, and finish.
You'll also need jointing compounds, adhesives, and sub-base materials or sharp sand, which can add another £10 to £20 per m². The cost of the installation typically ranges between £50 and £80 per square metre, and this covers the excavation, sub-base preparation, laying the slabs, grouting, and finishing. More complex installations involving patterns, steps, or curved edges can increase the overall labour cost.
In short, the average cost to install a porcelain patio ranges from £100 to £150 per metre squared. Though it may have a higher upfront cost, its durability, low maintenance needs, and attractive finish provide excellent value for homeowners looking for a lasting outdoor space.
What Affects the Total Cost?
A larger area requires more paving materials and additional labour, which increases the overall price. Since the installation is typically priced per square metre, the size of the area will directly impact the final cost of the project.
Porcelain slabs vary in price based on their thickness, design, brand, and whether they are specifically for the outdoors. High-quality tiles with unique finishes or anti-slip coatings typically cost more, while standard designs are often more affordable. The price of porcelain tiles typically ranges from £30 to £60 per square metre.
Site preparation, such as removing old paving, levelling uneven ground, or installing proper drainage, can also affect the overall cost. These preparatory tasks often add both time and labour, especially if any machinery or skip hire is needed.
Additional features like stones, decorative borders, lighting, or built-in drainage systems can enhance the patio's appeal, but it will also raise the total cost. Similarly, sealing the grout or adding weed-resistant jointing compounds can involve extra materials and labour.
Extras That Add to the Price
Before the installation begins, the existing site may need substantial preparation; this can include removing old paving, levelling the ground, or addressing drainage issues. If excavation is needed or access to the site is restricted, the labour and machinery costs can rise. Skip hire and waste disposal are also common additional expenses within a patio installation service.
Proper drainage is essential to stop water pooling and prevent long-term structural issues. Installing a new drainage system, such as French drains or channel drains, adds to both the labour and material costs during the project, increasing the final cost. Decorative stones or borders can enhance the appearance of your patio but they will also add to the final cost due to the extra materials and cutting time.
While porcelain itself doesn’t need sealing, some homeowners choose to seal the grout or use premium jointing compounds that resist weeds, water, and staining. These treatments improve the patio's long-term performance but it also comes at an additional cost.
DIY vs Professional Installation Costs
One of the first choices homeowners make when planning a porcelain patio installation is whether to take on the project themselves or hire a professional. A DIY installation typically costs £30 to £60 per square metre and mainly covers the cost of the porcelain slabs, sub-base materials (MOT Type 1, sand, cement), adhesives, and jointing compounds. However, there will be additional expenses, such as tool hires or purchases, protective gear and safety tools, skip hire or waste removal and delivery charges for materials.
Although a DIY installation can reduce the labour costs, it comes with a range of potential risks. Inexperience can lead to issues such as inadequate drainage, poorly prepared ground, or uneven and misaligned tiles. These mistakes affect the patio’s appearance and also cause long-term structural problems, such as water pooling or loose slabs. Without the skills and knowledge of a professional, homeowners can end up facing expensive repairs or even full replacements in the future.
Hiring a professional costs around £100 to £150 per square metre, which includes the cost of the materials, labour, preparation, and site clean-up.
Professionals ensure the ground is properly prepared, the tiles are placed accurately, and the jointing is strong and durable.
A correctly installed patio will also need fewer repairs and maintenance over time, and many installers provide guarantees on their workmanship.
While a DIY job can save £40 to £90 per square metre in labour, any errors in layout, drainage, or jointing can lead to future repairs or a full replacement, which ultimately costs more in the long run.
We provide professional porcelain patio installation services across Ayrshire and the surrounding areas. We ensure that each patio is fitted precisely and that you receive a flawless finish tailored to your property. Trust us to transform your garden or outdoor area with our long-lasting porcelain paving.
