How much sub base do i need?

Could anyone give me a good rule of thumb for a patio?

Asked by Cheryl on 24th Feb 2026
Expert Trade Answers
"For a patio, a good rule of thumb is allow 1 m² per person for seating space, plus extra for paths and furniture.

Kind regards, CB Builders & Son"
Answered on 10th Mar 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"sub base should be no less than 100mm 4inch kind regards aaron"
Answered on 1st Mar 2026 - Member since Jan 2026 - report
"A good rule of thumb for a patio sub-base is 100–150mm of properly compacted MOT Type 1, depending on the ground conditions.

Typical installation build-up is:

• 100–150mm MOT Type 1 sub-base, compacted in layers
• 30–40mm full mortar bed (sharp sand and cement mix)
• Paving slabs installed on a full bed, not spot bedded

This normally means excavating to around 150–200mm below finished level.

For firm, well-draining ground, 100mm may be sufficient. However, on clay, softer ground, or areas prone to movement, we always recommend 150mm for long-term stability.

The most important factor is that the sub-base is installed in layers and mechanically compacted, as this is what prevents sinking, rocking slabs, and future movement. Also ensure the patio has a slight fall (approx. 1:60) away from the property for drainage.

In our experience installing patios and landscaping projects, the sub-base is the single most important part of the job. If done correctly, the patio will remain solid and level for many years."
Answered on 24th Feb 2026 - Member since Oct 2025 - report
"A good rule of thumb is 150mm heavily compacted type1 stone (MOT) as a sub base and give yourself 30-35mm for bedding (cement) make a paste up ( watery cement and PVA mix) paste the back of the slabs before laying."
Answered on 24th Feb 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"if this is for a concrete slab, then you will normally need 100mm hardcore, sand and 100mm of concrete"
Answered on 11th Mar 2026 - Member since Jan 2021 - report
"Dependent on the ground obviously, but 4-6 inch of well compacted hardcore"
Answered on 24th Feb 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"100mm of type 1 for foot fraffic 150-250 in drive way could use different materials (ie brick rubble) for cheaper option"
Answered on 11th Mar 2026 - Member since Dec 2025 - report
"Good evening rule of thumb
Basic maths
Length x breath X depth
That will give you the cubic meteredge of type 1 needs for your sub base the same rule for mortor underneath the slabs
Hope this helps"
Answered on 25th Feb 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"The minimum amount of type one you should put in is 100mm but i would always put in 150mm well compacted with a wacker plate ."
Answered on 8th Mar 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"Minimum is usually about 100ml depending on how soft the ground is"
Answered on 16th Mar 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
Find Tradespeople, compare up to 3 quotes!
It's FREE and there are no obligations
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Ask a Trade

Are you looking for advice on a DIY project or have a question for our tradespeople?

We'll email your question to tradespeople who are skilled in your chosen category.

Your question will be made public - please do not include any personal details.

{{ first(ask.errors)[0] }}

By continuing you agree to the Community Guidelines.

Report Content

{{ first(reportForm.errors) }}

Thank you

Your report has been created and will be investigated shortly.

Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year