Summary: Learn how to lay a patio, prepare the ground, construct a timber frame, fill with hardcore and lay patio slabs.
Laying a patio requires careful planning. If the patio is to abut against the wall of a house, the top must be at least 100mm (4in) below the damp-proof course. Other factors to take into consideration include:
Once you have made up your mind on all these important matters you can begin to build your patio. For the purpose of this project we are looking at how to lay a small garden patio using slabs.
Once you have marked out the shape of your patio, use a spade to cut the turf around the perimeter.
When the frame is in place check the depth of your excavation, removing more soil if necessary.
Position the first two slabs on the bed of mortar and insert the spacers. Tap the slabs into the mortar with a rubber mallet.
When the mortar has set, use a pointing trowel to fill the joints between the slabs with mortar.
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