Patio & Decking Quotes in Ireland
Compare up to 4 local patio & decking professionals. Free, no obligation quotes.
A patio or deck creates an outdoor living area that extends your usable space and adds value to your home. In Ireland, where a sheltered, south-facing outdoor seating area can be enjoyed from April to October, investing in a well-designed patio or deck pays dividends in quality of life.
The choice between a patio (hard surface: paving slabs, natural stone, porcelain) and decking (timber or composite boards on a raised frame) depends on your site, budget, and preference. Patios are more durable, lower maintenance, and better suited to ground-level areas. Decking is ideal for raised areas, uneven ground, or where you want a warm, softer surface underfoot.
Paving material is the biggest design and cost decision for a patio. Concrete slabs are the most affordable. Natural stone (Indian sandstone, limestone, granite) is mid-range and adds character. Porcelain paving is increasingly popular: it is frost-proof, stain-resistant, low-maintenance, and available in realistic stone and wood effects. For decking, the choice is between pressure-treated softwood (cheapest, needs annual treatment), hardwood (durable, naturally rot-resistant), and composite (maintenance-free, longest lasting).
Both patios and decking require proper preparation: patios need a compacted sub-base with correct falls for drainage, while decking needs a level frame with adequate ventilation underneath. Cutting corners on preparation leads to sinking, pooling water, and premature failure. Comparing quotes from experienced contractors ensures your outdoor space is built to last.
How Much Does Patio & Decking Cost in Ireland?
Typical pricing for patio & decking services in Ireland (2026):
| Service | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Patio (natural stone, 20 sq m) | €3,000 | €6,000 | Stone type, sub-base, drainage |
| Composite decking (20 sq m) | €4,000 | €7,000 | Brand, subframe, finish |
| Pergola (timber) | €2,000 | €5,000 | Size, design, materials |
Patio costs depend on material (concrete slabs cheapest, porcelain and natural stone most expensive), area size, ground preparation required, and edging. Decking costs depend on material (softwood cheapest, composite most expensive), height (raised decks need more structural work), and balustrade requirements. Access to the garden (for machinery and materials) affects labour costs. Dublin rates 15-20% above the national average.
What to Expect: The Patio & Decking Process
- Site survey, design discussion, and material selection.
- Excavation and sub-base preparation (patios) or frame construction (decking).
- Laying paving on sand/cement bed or fitting deck boards to frame.
- Jointing (patios), sanding, and finishing.
- Drainage connections and clean-up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Inadequate sub-base causing sinking and pooling water.
- Patio sloping towards the house instead of away from it.
- Using untreated softwood for decking in Ireland's wet climate.
- Not ventilating underneath a deck, causing rot.
- Laying paving without proper jointing, allowing weed growth and movement.
What to Look for When Hiring a Patio & Decking Professional
Always check that your chosen professional is properly insured and has relevant experience for your specific job.
Questions to Ask Your Patio & Decking Professional
- What sub-base depth for the patio? 100-150mm of compacted hardcore is standard. Skimping causes sinking.
- How do you handle drainage falls? Patios must slope away from the house at 1:60 minimum.
- What decking material do you recommend? Each has trade-offs in cost, maintenance, and lifespan.
- Is the area underneath the deck ventilated? Without ventilation, moisture causes rot in timber decking frames.
- Do I need planning permission? Raised decks over 1 metre may need permission.
- What guarantee? 5 years minimum on paving workmanship. Composite decking carries 15-25 year manufacturer warranties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Concrete slabs: €40 to €60/m2. Natural stone: €60 to €100/m2. Porcelain: €70 to €120/m2. A typical 30 m2 patio costs €1,500 to €4,000. Prices include excavation, sub-base, laying, and jointing.
Softwood: €80 to €120/m2. Hardwood: €120 to €180/m2. Composite: €100 to €160/m2. A 20 m2 deck costs €1,600 to €3,600. Prices include frame, boards, and fitting.
Patios are more durable, lower maintenance, and better at ground level. Decking suits raised areas and uneven ground. Both add value. Choose based on your site and lifestyle.
Natural stone and porcelain: 30+ years. Concrete slabs: 20-25 years. Depends on sub-base quality and jointing maintenance.
Ground-level patios generally do not. Raised decks over 1 metre above ground may require permission.
Annual pressure washing. Re-jointing every 5-10 years. Treat algae and moss growth. Seal natural stone every 3-5 years.
Patio & Decking Quotes by County
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