How do I measure my patio?
If you have a garden where you’re looking to lay paving slabs or block paving but you’re not quite sure how to work out how many you need, then we’re here to offer some advice.
If you have a square or rectangular patio then calculating its area is quite a straightforward job. You simply need to measure the width and length of the area that you’re looking to pave and multiply the two numbers together. This will then give you your area to pave.
When working out the area of a more abstract shaped garden, the first thing you need to do is divide that abstract shape into regular shapes such as triangles, squares, rectangles and even circles. Often the easiest way to plan this out is with paper and a pencil. If you then find the area of these individual shapes and add them up, you can calculate the total area you need to cover.
If you do struggle with this, don’t worry, send us an email with an image of the area and we can calculate the size of the area for you.
Once you have measured the area, try it out for size. Use ropes or markers to create the boundaries and mimic the size of the area to be paved. Place your furniture, barbecue and planters in their prospective homes to check the layout works and you are 100% happy with your future space.
Do I measure my patio in feet or metres?
All of our paving flags and slabs are sold in metric units. Individual pavers have their dimensions displayed in millimeters (mm), for example, the 600 x 600mm Bradstone Natural Granite Paving in Silver Grey. The area that the paving slabs cover, whether that be individually or in a pack is displayed in square metres (m2) - the Bradstone Ashbourne Paving in Weathered Grey is sold as a patio pack which covers 9.72m2. The laying pattern for this product uses a suggested area with the dimensions of 3.6m (3600mm) x 2.7m (2700mm).
Therefore, we always recommend that you measure your area in metres rather than feet. Don’t worry though, if you are more comfortable working in imperial measurements, then give us a call on 0800 032 6306 and we can convert it for you.
How do I calculate how many pavers I need?
Now you’ve done the tricky bit, you can work out how many pavers you need to cover your area. We try to help you as much as possible here by providing coverage of our products and also coverage calculator on every product page.
How to Choose Paving Slabs
This is the fun bit - choosing your patio paving! If you’re looking for a traditional style, why not take a look at the Bradstone Natural Sandstone Paving available in six different colour options, exhibiting natural veining and a riven profile, with this Indian sandstone you’re sure to find the perfect paving stones for your outdoor area.
If you prefer a product more uniform in colour, a manufactured concrete paving slab product such as Bradstone Old Town Paving is a great choice. The traditional charm of Old Town recreates the appearance of timeworn flagstones whilst keeping greater colour consistency from slab to slab. This range has been produced from moulds replicating 19th century cotton mill flooring incorporating tooling marks and weathered edging.
Using a Patio Circle
As your patio is the focal point of your garden, a circular paving feature makes a perfect centrepiece! We have a selection of 2 or 3 ring paving circles in both natural stone and manufactured paving ranges, so there's a wide range of colours and finishes available. You can use the circle as a standalone feature or even incorporate it into the main patio area using a squaring off kit.
Contemporary Paving
If modern paving styles are more your thing, the Porcelain paving range should be at the top of your shopping list. Ultra strong, durable and resistant to water absorption, porcelain slabs are pretty much maintenance free and scratch resistant. We have an extensive range of porcelain pavers available in many different colours and styles. A customer favourite is the Bradstone Aspero Porcelain Paving. Aspero is available in a patio pack that features three different sizes in 4 desirable colour options.
Things to Consider with Your Garden Patio
- Make sure your patio is in proportion to your house.
- Consider the position of your patio in your garden or in relation to your house.
- Traditional patios are often symmetrical to your property.
- Curved and geometric shaped areas are very contemporary and stylish.
- Consider where the sun will rise and set, especially if you’re looking to create the perfect sun trap.
- Allow space for garden furniture and loungers and if using firepits and barbeques ensure there is an area of clearance around them for safety and comfort.
If you have any questions about our beautiful range of garden paving slabs or want to query something about your planned patio, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Call us on 0800 032 6306 or start a live chat