Want a patio without using cement? Whether you've got practical or environmental concerns about cement, we've got some outstanding alternatives for you.
Building a patio can enhance your garden and create a lovely outdoor space to enjoy with your family and friends. But it doesn’t end there.
Refining your outdoor spaces with landscaping and adding a patio to your garden could hold other benefits.
For example, garden landscaping may increase the value of your property, should you come to sell it later down the line.
Patios are traditionally laid using cement or concrete. However – as we will cover – there may be reasons you choose not to use these materials.
If that’s the case, there are plenty of alternatives that you can try. If you're wondering how to lay a patio without cement, we’ve got you covered.
While there are plenty of local landscapers that can help you along the way, you might want to give this DIY project a go for yourself.
In this guide, we’ll explore the alternatives to cement that can help you achieve a sturdy, long-lasting patio.
These methods are eco-friendly, can be more affordable, and even easier for beginners to try. Here’s everything that you need to know.
Before we talk about how to lay a patio without cement, let’s get into why you might want to.
Cement and concrete are durable and widely used for patios. So, when you’re creating your ideal outdoor space, they might seem like the obvious solution.
However, concrete and cement do come with a few drawbacks.
Environmental impact
Cement production is one of the largest producers of carbon dioxide emissions and a major contributor to climate change, according to the International Energy Agency.
So, if you’re looking for the most sustainable material, you might want to look elsewhere. Choosing an alternative that has less of an impact may be the answer.
Cost
Whenever you’re embarking on a landscaping project, costs matter.
The materials, mixing, and labour involved in laying concrete can soon add up, while cement can also be more expensive than other materials.
If you'd prefer to avoid the amount you'd pay on concrete costs per m3, it's time to look at alternatives.
You can learn about groundwork expenses by reading our guide on how much groundworks cost.
Skill level
Laying concrete correctly can be tricky and requires some expertise. If you’re not working with landscape architects or local builders to get the job done, you might find that you struggle.
In that case, it’s smart to look at how to lay a patio without using cement, as these alternatives may be easier.
Time and mess
Spoiler: working with cement is often messy and frustrating. You only need to look at how long cement takes to dry to see this, and how progress is often delayed.
If you’ve got a fast turnaround on this project, you might want to look into alternatives. Using a different type of material could save you time and trouble when laying your new patio.
Luckily, there are plenty of alternative patio bases that you can use.
Now we’ve covered the reasons you might choose not to use cement, let’s talk about what you can use instead.
Here are some of the best methods for laying a patio without cement:
Gravel base
Gravel is a common alternative to cement. This approach is ideal for creating a strong patio foundation.
Plus, the gaps between the gravel allow for good drainage. If you have even a little experience with landscaping, you should find that gravel is relatively easy to install.
Sand base
Next up, let’s talk about sand. Using sand as a base for a patio is another popular cement-free option.
There are plenty of advantages to this option, too. Sand provides a flat, even surface and allows you to adjust the position of your various slabs easily.
It’s also compact and durable, but offers the drainage capabilities you don’t get with cement.
Dry mix mortar base
Finally, a dry mix mortar base is another effective way to lay a patio without cement. While this is the least popular option, it’s one that you shouldn’t overlook.
Dry mix mortar offers more stability than sand but is less messy and time consuming than wet cement. Win-win!
Don't want to use cement or learn how to make concrete for your patio?
First, you’ll need to decide which of the above alternatives you want to use.
Just like there are different types of loft conversion or house extension, there are several equally valid approaches you can take here.
In this section, we’ve shared quick and easy steps you can take to lay a patio with each of them.
Checklist: tools and materials
Let’s gather the tools and materials you’ll need to build your cement-free patio.
String
Wooden pegs
Spirit level
Shovel
Tamper
Rake
Rubber mallet
How to lay a patio with a gravel base
If you want a gravel base for your patio, you’ll need to follow these steps.
Step 1: prepare the area
Before you get started, clear the space where you plan to build the patio.
This means removing grass, weeds, and any debris. It needs to be as clear as possible.
Step 2: mark out your patio
Use string and wooden pegs to mark the boundary of your patio.
Make sure the area is level by checking with a spirit level. You need to be clear about where the patio will start and end.
Step 3: dig a base
Next, you need to dig a small base for your patio.
You want to go around 10 to 15 cm deep when creating the base for your patio.
Step 4: add a sub-base layer
Now, you need to add a sub-base layer.
That means spreading crushed stone over the base at a depth of around 5 to 7 cm. Compact it down using a tamper or plate compactor.
Step 5: add the gravel
Add around 5 cm of fine gravel over this base.
You need to make sure that it’s smooth. You can use a rake to get the right level across the base of your patio.
Step 6: lay the slabs down
Next, place your paving slabs directly onto the gravel.
You can then start tapping them down gently with a rubber mallet to make sure they’re secure.
For a more in-depth look at this process, read our guide on how to lay paving slabs.
Step 7: fill in the gaps
When the slabs are in place, fill in the gaps between them with more gravel.
At this point, you should be set!
How to lay a patio with a sand base
If you prefer a patio with a sand base, these are the steps you’ll need to follow.
Step 1: prepare the area
Follow the same steps to clear the area as you would when laying a gravel base.
Get rid of grass, weeds, and any other debris. You need to make sure that the space is clear and ready for your patio.
Step 2: lay down a weed membrane
Weeds are more common when you use sand for your patio.
To prevent weeds from growing through the gaps, lay a weed barrier before adding the sand.
Step 3: add the sand
Spread a 3 to 5 cm layer of sharp sand all over the area.
You should then use a screen board to level the sand out. Check the surface is even using a spirit level.
Step 4: arrange your slabs
Lay your paving slabs on top of the sand in your chosen design. You can move the paving slabs around until you’re happy with how it looks.
Remember to leave small gaps between each slab for expansion and settling.
Step 5: secure the slabs
Next up, use a rubber mallet to tap the slabs into place.
You want to make these as even as possible, so you should once again use a spirit level.
Step 6: brush sand into the gaps
You need to fill in the gaps at this point.
Sweep fine sand directly into the gaps between the slabs to lock them in place. Pat this down to get the desired look.
Finally, you should have your cement-free patio ready to go.
How to lay a patio with a dry mix mortar base
If you think a patio with a dry mix mortar base is the best choice for your garden, follow these instructions.
Step 1: prepare the area
Following the same steps as before, clear the area to give your soon-to-be patio a suitable space.
Remove weeds, grass, any other bits of muck and debris.
Step 2: level the area and prepare the base
Now, you’ll need to mark the boundaries of your patio’s area, while making sure it’s level.
You can check it’s even with a spirit level.
Step 3: create your dry mix
Next, mix sand and cement in a ratio of four parts sand and one part cement. Don’t add any water to the mix.
Leaving it dry makes it much easier to work with.
Step 4: spread the dry mix
Spread the dry mix evenly all over the area where you’ll be laying the patio slabs.
The depth should be around 3 to 5 cm. You can, again, use your spirit level to judge the evenness of the surface.
Step 5: arrange your slabs
Take a moment to plan out your preferred pattern.
Now, position the slabs directly onto the dry mix, using a mallet to tap them into position.
Fill in any remaining gaps using the dry mix.
Step 6: add some water
When the slabs are laid, lightly mist the surface using clean water.
This will help the mix settle into the joints while activating the cement in the mix, bonding the slabs to the base.
That’s job done – you’ve laid your patio!
Now you know how to lay a patio without cement, let’s talk about the slabs you can use. You don’t need to use concrete, although it’s one of the UK’s favourite paving options.
Just like picking from the best driveway materials, you need to consider the benefits and drawbacks you most care about.
Durability? Longevity? Maintenance requirements?
Here are some environmentally friendly options you might want to consider.
Natural stone slabs
Natural stone, such as sandstone or limestone, makes for a durable and beautiful patio surface.
These stones have a rustic, organic look that blends seamlessly with a garden environment.
Got an eye on your garden and house renovation costs? Keep in mind that natural stone slabs usually cost a bit more!
Gravel patios
Gravel patios are ideal for informal outdoor spaces.
These are easy to install and maintain. Plus, the variety of gravel types means you can create different textures and colours, too.
Rubber tiles
Rubber patio tiles made from recycled materials are eco-friendly. These slabs are soft, too, making them ideal for households with children and pets.
You can lay these directly onto soil or sand bases.
By this point, you may be feeling ready to lay your cement-free patio. But what happens next?
Here are some simple tips to help you maintain your new outdoor space.
Clean your patio regularly
Cleaning is a must.
Remember to sweep your patio to remove debris, dirt, and leaves. These can build up between slabs or tiles and be a real pain later.
Replenish the sand or gravel
Over the years, the sand or gravel between slabs may shift. For example, if you have extreme weather, it can wash away the sand.
You can sidestep this issue by keeping an extra bag of sand or gravel to top it up on an as-needed basis.
Get rid of the weeds
Even if you use a weed membrane, you may find that weeds find their way through from time to time. These can make your patio look a mess.
You can pull most small weeds by hand, while in other cases, you might want to use tools.
Think carefully before using chemical herbicides – there may be better alternatives to weed killers available to you.
Repair or remove sinking slabs
If you notice any slabs sinking or becoming uneven, lift them and add more sand or gravel underneath to even them out.
Take the time to repair any broken or sinking slabs early and you can save yourself from a future headache.
Want to know more before laying your patio without cement? You're in the right place for answers.
What is the most beginner-friendly way to lay a patio without cement?
Using a gravel base is generally the easiest method for beginners.
It provides good drainage, is forgiving to install, and doesn't require any mixing of materials – which can easily go wrong.
Whether you're learning how to render a wall, lay paving slabs, or build a wall, it's best to pick an approach in line with your experience and level of comfort.
Will a patio without cement still be durable?
Anytime you invest in your home, durability matters. That's true whether you're looking at roofing, landscaping, or house rendering costs.
Fortunately, cement-free patios are still durable, when installed correctly.
Dry methods like compacted gravel or sand bases, especially with a proper sub-base and edging, can last many years with minimal maintenance.
Is it worth hiring a professional to lay a patio?
Laying a patio without using cement is a relatively straightforward task, but it still requires some skill and certainly some muscle.
Plus, sometimes it's worth paying to get optimal results. For example, just because you know how to lay bricks, it doesn't mean you can match the skills of a professional bricklayer.
Realistically, you could save yourself some trouble by hiring a expert; you can usually do so without spending a fortune.
Both builders and landscapers are capable of laying patios to a high standard, so focus on picking a service with a proven track record with patios that don't use cement.
Laying a patio without cement is possible. Use the advice we’ve shared in this guide when you’re ready to get started.
From gravel and sand bases to dry mix mortar, you have many good options that are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and easy to work with.
Having trouble with these processes, or would you simply prefer to leave this work to the experts?
On Yell, you can easily search for local paving services. Alternatively, you can post a free enquiry and let experienced tradespeople contact you by phone or email.
For more cost guides, DIY advice, and money-saving tips, check out the Yell blog now.
