Guides & advice

Plan your project with confidence

Practical, honest advice from the MAFFS team on costs, materials and the rules for gardens and driveways.

6 min read

How much does a new patio cost in Berkshire?

What affects the price of a new patio in Slough, Windsor and Berkshire, from materials and groundwork to access and drainage. Plus how to get an accurate quote.

5 min read

Porcelain vs Indian sandstone: which patio is right for you?

An honest comparison of porcelain and Indian sandstone paving: looks, maintenance, slip resistance, cost and which suits your home.

6 min read

Do you need planning permission for a fence, patio or driveway?

Plain-English guide to permitted development rules for fences, decking, patios and front driveways in Slough, Windsor & Maidenhead and Berkshire.

5 min read

Composite vs timber decking: pros, cons and costs

Comparing composite, softwood and hardwood decking for UK gardens: lifespan, maintenance, look and value.

5 min read

Block paving vs resin driveways

Which driveway is best for your home? We compare block paving and resin-bound driveways on looks, drainage rules, maintenance and lifespan.

4 min read

Is artificial grass worth it?

The honest pros and cons of artificial grass for families, pets and busy homeowners in Berkshire, and why the installation matters most.

4 min read

When is the best time of year to landscape your garden?

When to book patios, fencing, turf and tree planting for the best results, and why planning ahead gets you the best slot.

5 min read

How to choose a landscaper: 8 questions to ask

What to ask before you hire a landscaper in Slough, Windsor or Berkshire, so you get quality work, a fair price and no surprises.

4 min read

Fence heights and boundary rules explained

How high can a garden fence be, who owns which side, and how to avoid disputes with neighbours. A practical guide for homeowners.

5 min read

Small and new-build garden ideas that make a big difference

Practical ideas to transform small and new-build gardens across Slough, Langley, Bracknell and Berkshire: layout, materials and drainage.

5 min read

Do I need permission to cut down or prune a tree?

When you need council consent for tree work in Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead and Berkshire: tree preservation orders, conservation areas and the six-week notice.

5 min read

How much does tree surgery cost?

What affects the price of tree surgery, tree felling and stump grinding in Slough, Windsor and Berkshire, plus how to get an accurate quote.

4 min read

Stump grinding vs stump removal: which do you need?

The difference between stump grinding and full stump removal, how deep each goes, and which suits a lawn, bed, patio or extension.

4 min read

When is the best time to prune trees and cut hedges?

A season-by-season guide to pruning trees and cutting hedges in Berkshire, including the bird nesting season and species that need summer pruning.

4 min read

Can I cut my neighbour's overhanging branches?

What you can and can't do about a neighbour's overhanging tree branches and roots, including protected trees and what to do with the cuttings.

4 min read

How high can a hedge be? The high hedges rules explained

There's no fixed legal hedge height, but the high hedges rules can apply to evergreen hedges over 2m. What it means for homeowners in Berkshire.

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