TessCon recently completed a porcelain patio installation that transformed an ageing outdoor space into a bright, practical and welcoming garden. The project involved removing approximately 15-year-old timber decking, preparing and levelling the ground, laying a spacious new porcelain patio and installing timber sleepers around the patio and planting areas.
Completed over a couple of weeks, the project created a durable outdoor space that the homeowners can enjoy for many years to come.
It also presented an unusual logistical challenge, as the property had no direct access to the rear garden. Every tool and material had to be carefully transported through the house while keeping disruption and interior mess to a minimum.
Replacing Old and Failing Decking
The existing timber decking had been in place for around 15 years and was beginning to deteriorate. Some areas had started to rot, with the damage particularly noticeable on the steps leading from the house into the garden.
With the warm summer weather making the garden an important part of the home, the clients wanted to replace the failing decking with something attractive, dependable and built to last. Porcelain tiles were selected for their clean appearance, durability and suitability for creating a low-maintenance outdoor living space.
Preparing the Garden
Once the old decking had been dismantled and removed, the ground beneath it was levelled and prepared to provide a stable foundation for the new patio. Careful groundwork was essential to create an even surface and support the porcelain paving over the long term.
The photos taken during the installation show the large-format porcelain tiles being laid in a staggered pattern, creating clean lines and a sense of space across the garden. A new stepped transition was also formed between the house and patio to replace the deteriorating timber steps.
Porcelain Paving and Timber Sleeper Details
Light-toned porcelain paving was used throughout the main patio area, helping the garden feel brighter and more open. The subtle variation within the tiles complements the surrounding greenery, while the darker joints define the staggered layout and give the finished surface a crisp, contemporary appearance.
Timber sleepers were installed around the patio and planting areas to create strong, clearly defined borders. These details provide a warm contrast against the porcelain while helping the new patio sit naturally within the established garden.
The existing trees, shrubs and lawn were retained, allowing the newly landscaped area to feel established from the moment the work was completed. A seating area now has a firm, attractive surface overlooking the mature garden.
Overcoming Restricted Garden Access
With no direct route into the rear garden, all paving, aggregates, timber, tools and waste had to pass through the house. The TessCon team planned the work carefully and took appropriate precautions to protect the interior and keep mess to a minimum throughout the project.
Restricted access can make a landscaping project more demanding, but it does not have to prevent homeowners from improving their outdoor space. TessCon can assess the property, plan material movements and manage the work from preparation through to the final finish.
Work Carried Out
- Removal and disposal of the old timber decking
- Removal of the deteriorating garden steps
- Ground levelling and preparation
- Installation of large-format porcelain paving
- Creation of new steps between the house and patio
- Installation of timber sleeper borders
- Formation of defined planting areas
- Careful movement of materials through the house
- Final cleaning and preparation of the completed patio
The Finished Garden
The completed patio has completely changed how the garden looks and can be used. In place of the ageing decking is a generous porcelain-paved area with plenty of room for seating, outdoor dining and entertaining.
The combination of light porcelain, natural timber sleepers and established planting gives the garden a clean but balanced finish. Most importantly, the clients now have an outdoor space that feels secure, practical and ready to enjoy throughout the warmer months.
What the Customer Said
“We recently had a new patio installed by TessCon and are really pleased with the finished result. The work involved removing the old decking and levelling out the ground before laying porcelain tiles and installing wooden sleepers around the patio and planting areas.
The whole project took a couple of weeks to complete and the team did a great job throughout. They were friendly, approachable and easy to have around, and clearly took pride in getting everything finished properly.
The patio has completely transformed the garden and we’re really happy with the quality of the workmanship and how everything has turned out. We’d definitely recommend TessCon to anyone considering a new patio or similar landscaping work.”
Fujiko Lowry
Planning a New Patio or Garden Upgrade?
TessCon provides professional landscaping, paving and patio installation services for homeowners across Birmingham and the surrounding areas. From replacing old decking to installing porcelain paving, sleeper borders and complete garden transformations, our team can manage every stage of the work.
Contact TessCon to discuss your garden and arrange a free, no-obligation quotation.
