Back to Basics - Patios

     A couple of years back I was watching a landscaping show on HGTV. In this particular episode, the host was constructing a patio for the client out of pavers in an area that was previously occupied by an above ground pool. The host was explaining that this was the perfect place for the patio since the “sand base” was already there and they could simply level it off with a rake and lay the pavers. It was all I could do to not jump out of my seat and shout at the TV. Instead I wrote an email to the show producer explaining that the method of installing a paver patio they were depicting would not work in many regions of the country (including Wisconsin) if not anywhere. Two weeks later while watching the show again, I noticed a one paragraph disclaimer at the beginning of the show explaining that the methods shown were regional and may not work in your particular climate. It was then that I decided that I need to find a way to educate the public on the proper installation methods of different hardscapes applications.

     This blog post will be the first in a series of posts aimed at informing and educating readers on the proper ways to construct different hardscapes elements. My goal is twofold; to give DIY’ers the information they need to construct these elements on their own successfully and to provide the public with information they can use to qualify a company, when considering a landscaping firm to install a project. Although you can never replace knowledge gained by hands on experience, knowing the proper installation methods will ensure that your project is done the right way and will last longer than the HGTV show I referred to. The only disclaimer here will be that these methods are specific to Wisconsin, but since we have a pretty dramatic freeze thaw cycle, I think these methods could be implemented anywhere else in the country with great success. Here are some steps to follow in order to properly install your new patio.

1)    Determine the size and shape of the patio. Using upside down marking paint or a hose, layout your patio according to the amount of space you need. Consider your current or future patio furniture, grill, additional chairs and lifestyle. If you entertain often, allow for extra space for furniture for your guests. Make sure that the patio will not impeded any water from flowing away from the house and try not to have too much patio space directly against the house. If design is not your forte, consider hiring a Landscape Designer to help design the patio for you.

2)    Excavation of the patio space is the next step and the amount of soil that should be excavated varies from site to site. Essentially, you need to get all of the topsoil out of the patio area and get down to the sub-grade. The sub-grade is the layer of soil below the dark or black soil in your yard. The topsoil in an existing yard is typically between 6 and 8” deep although sometimes it can be as deep as 12”. Once you remove the topsoil, you are ready for the base.

3)    Installing a proper base is essential to the long term stability of your new patio. Start by layering in 2-3” lifts of ¾” crushed limestone (Traffic Bond). Between each layer compact the stone using a vibratory plate compactor, you can rent these at your local Home Depot. Continue building up layers until you are approximately 1” from the level at which your pavers will sit. At this point I should point out that it is very important to establish the proper grade and pitch of your patio. Make sure that the patio slopes away from your house at a pitch of approximately 1” or rise for every 10’ of length. Thicknesses of pavers can vary so make sure to measure the thickness of your paver to establish the finish grade. Using 3/8” Traffic Bond, install the final lift (screed) of gravel using a straight edge to make sure it is level and smooth.

4)    Lay your pavers over the Screed carefully as to not step on the screed layer. Once the pavers are laid and cut in place, install Paver Edging along the outside of the patio and spike into the ground. Sweep silica, polymeric or mason sand into the joints and broom clean. If you decide to use Polymeric sand, be careful to read the directions and clean the patio carefully before wetting the joints.

     If you are attempting to install a patio on your own, take your time. Installing a patio is a craft and takes practice to learn all of the tricks of the trade. If you are considering hiring a professional, ask questions about their installation methods and make sure they are doing things the right way. If you have questions regarding any of the above information, feel free to email us or call us, we’re happy to help.