Professional Garden Landscaping & Design

Natural stone is quarried material such as sandstone, limestone or granite, whereas, porcelain is man-made from compressed clay and minerals that are fired at high temperatures, creating a very dense, durable slab that resists stains, moisture and frost.

Not always, but every patio needs a suitable way for water to move away from the surface and the property. Depending on the levels, soil conditions and surrounding walls or thresholds, this may be handled by the correct fall, drainage channels, permeable joints or a soakaway.

Porcelain usually offers better and more consistent slip resistance as it is manufactured with a textured anti-slip surface and absorbs very little water. On the other hand, natural stone can also provide good grip, especially with a textured finish, but smoother stone may become slippery over time if not properly maintained.

A properly installed patio can last for decades. Porcelain and natural stone paving are both long-lasting options when installed on the correct sub-base with suitable falls, drainage and jointing.

Timber decking is made from natural wood, hence it provides a traditional look but requires regular maintenance such as staining, sealing and treating to prevent rot, warping and fading. Alternatively, composite decking is made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibres, designed to look like timber but is more resistant to moisture, rot, fading and staining.

FSC-Certified decking uses timber sourced from forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. This means the wood comes from responsibly managed forests that meet recognised environmental, social and economic standards.

Composite decking can become warm in direct sunlight, especially darker colours. Lighter board colours, good airflow and thoughtful positioning can help reduce heat build-up during hot weather.

Any outdoor surface can become slippery when wet, icy or covered with algae and debris. Textured decking boards and regular cleaning help improve grip and keep the surface safer throughout the year.

High-quality composite decking is typically designed to last around 20-30 years, depending on the product, installation quality, exposure and how well the area is maintained.

Capped decking is composite decking with a protective outer shell around the board. The cap helps improve resistance to staining, fading, moisture and general wear, making it a low-maintenance option for outdoor spaces.

Horticultural landscaping focuses on the living parts of a garden, including soil preparation, planting, turfing, trimming and ongoing plant health. It helps soften hard landscaping and create a garden that grows well over time.

A soakaway is an underground drainage system that allows surface water to disperse gradually into the surrounding ground. It is often used where rainwater needs to be managed away from patios, paths, buildings or low points in the garden.

Most new planting starts to settle within the first growing season, but it can take 12-24 months to become properly established. Watering, soil preparation and aftercare are important during this period.

Turfing involves laying pre-grown rolls of grass onto prepared soil, providing an instant green lawn, whereas, seeding requires sowing grass seed directly into the soil which takes longer to grow and requires more initial care, but it is generally more cost-effective for larger areas.

A planting scheme plans the choice, position and mix of plants so the garden has the right balance of colour, structure, texture and seasonal interest. It also helps ensure the plants suit the soil, light levels and maintenance expectations.