•  Hard landscape is usually the most expensive part of a garden revamp and it's going to be there for a long time. So it's important to get the choice of materials and design right. Go for the best materials you can afford.

•  Size matters. We need more space outside for sitting, laying, eating and entertaining than indoors. As a rule of thumb for a patio or deck allow about 3.5sq.m./11.5 sq.ft. per person who is likely to use it. Paths should be at least a metre wide.

•  Position matters. Patios and terraces are often close to the house to give an easy transition from house to garden and convenience for alfresco eating. Ideally a patio should be in a warm and sheltered position. If the area near the house is mostly in shade think about siting it elsewhere. Avoid having a patio near trees – problems with shade, roots possibly dislodging paving, insects, autumn leaves and bird droppings.

•  Drives, paths and patios need firm foundations. If not the paving material is likely to become uneven and a safety hazard. Be suspicious of a contractor who does not propose to lay foundations of crushed hardcore and then sharp sand before laying the paving with mortar.

•  If you are going to do it yourself then plan things – design, materials, quantities, time. Don't try to rush it. The materials are heavy and you need the right tools – spirit level, angle grinder to cut paving materials, plate compactor to firm the foundations. And work safe (eye protective goggles, mouth and nose mask when cutting paving and gloves).

•  When laying a patio next to the house the level of the paving should be at least 6 inches below the damp proof course.

•  A paved surface near the house should slope gently away from the house so that water drains away from the walls. A gradient of 1:100 is sufficient.