Completed patio install in Cornwall, grey porcelain, clean lines.

If you’re considering a new patio for your Cornish garden, you’re in the right place. At ML Rashleigh & Son, we’re family-run landscape gardeners based in Falmouth, serving homes across Cornwall including Penryn, Truro, Helston, and the surrounding areas. Installing a patio can transform your outdoor space, making it perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying the beautiful Cornish coastline. But what does the process actually involve? Here’s what you need to know.

Initial Consultation and Design

Every successful patio starts with a clear plan. When you contact ML Rashleigh & Son, we’ll arrange a consultation at your home to discuss:

Your garden layout and existing features
The style of patio you want (traditional, contemporary, or natural stone)
Your budget and timeline

During this stage, we can also provide ideas tailored for Cornish weather, ensuring your patio is both stylish and durable. Coastal gardens often need extra consideration for drainage and materials that can withstand wind and rain.

We’ll also look at how your patio will connect with other features such as decking, fences, or flower beds, ensuring a cohesive and attractive outdoor space.

Rain splashing down on garden balustrade.

Choosing the Right Materials

The choice of materials is crucial for a patio that lasts. Popular options for patios in Cornwall include:

Natural stone – granite or slate gives a timeless look and handles wet weather well.
Concrete paving slabs – cost-effective and versatile, available in many colours and textures.
Composite options – low-maintenance and ideal for contemporary gardens.

At ML Rashleigh & Son, we guide you through the pros and cons of each option, helping you pick the perfect fit for your home and local conditions.

Preparing Your Garden

Before any paving starts, preparation is key. This step includes:

Clearing the area of plants, old patios, or debris
Excavating to the right depth to ensure stability
Installing a solid base of hardcore or gravel
Leveling the ground and adding a sand or mortar layer

Proper preparation is what makes a patio last for years, and what separates professional installations from DIY attempts. Poorly prepared foundations can lead to uneven slabs, water pooling, or weeds growing through joints.

Tom from Rashleigh & Son with a cement mixer in Cornish garden installing a patio.

Installation Process

Once the groundwork is done, the paving can begin. Our team carefully lays each slab or stone, checking levels and alignment as we go. For added durability, we:

Use high-quality jointing materials
Include proper drainage to prevent water pooling
Ensure edges are secure and neat

This attention to detail is especially important for Cornish gardens, where heavy rain can quickly expose poor workmanship. A professionally installed patio will look great and remain safe to walk on for years to come.

Carefully laying a porcelain patio slab in Cornwall with ML Rashleigh.

Finishing Touches

A patio isn’t just about slabs and stones, finishing touches make all the difference. Some options include:

Adding steps, borders, or decorative edging
Integrating lighting for evening use
Planting around the patio to complement the garden

At ML Rashleigh & Son, we consider your patio as part of the wider landscape, ensuring it blends seamlessly with your garden’s style and the Cornish environment. Even small touches like curved edges, contrasting stone borders, or inset gravel can elevate the overall design.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Installing a patio may seem straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping proper drainage – water pooling can damage slabs and soil over time
Using the wrong materials for the climate – some stones crack in frost or erode quickly near the coast
Ignoring levels and slopes – uneven patios not only look bad but can be hazardous

By hiring experienced landscape gardeners in Cornwall, you can avoid these issues and ensure a long-lasting, beautiful patio.

Maintenance Tips

A well-installed patio is relatively low-maintenance, but a few simple steps will keep it looking great:

Sweep regularly to prevent moss and debris build-up
Wash with mild detergent or patio cleaner when needed
Inspect joints and stone edges annually

We also offer garden maintenance services in Cornwall if you’d prefer professional care.

Why Choose ML Rashleigh & Son for Patio Installation in Cornwall

With years of experience across Falmouth, Penryn, Truro, and beyond, ML Rashleigh & Son has built a reputation for reliable, high-quality landscaping. Here’s why our clients choose us:

Family-run, personal service
Expertise in landscape gardening and patio installation in Cornwall
Attention to detail and quality workmanship
Local knowledge, including handling coastal weather and soil conditions

We also showcase our completed projects on our social channels, so you can see the kind of patios we build, from small garden patios to larger outdoor entertainment areas.

Beautiful finished patio, freshly installed into a garden in Cornwall by Rashleigh & Son. Grey porcelain patio.

Ready to Transform Your Garden?

If you’re thinking about a new patio, now is the perfect time to start planning. At ML Rashleigh & Son – Landscape Gardeners in Cornwall, we work closely with you from design to completion, ensuring your patio is beautiful, durable, and perfectly suited to your garden.

Contact us today to arrange a consultation and discover how a new patio can enhance your Cornish garden.

Patio Installation in Cornwall: What to Expect