Isle Landscapers Limited

Have you been asking: how do you prepare the ground for paving? Isle Landscapers Limited specialise in garden patio laying throughout Maidstone and Kent. We look at how to prepare ground for paving and the steps to laying a patio.

How to prepare the ground for paving

Begin by measuring the area you intend to pave, then mark the edges using set-out paint. This will provide you with a clear guide to follow during the preparation process.

Use a wheelbarrow to lay out the road base in a series of mounds. This will make it easier to spread the road base evenly over the entire area.

Roughly spread out the road base with a shovel, and then use a levelling rake to achieve an even surface. Use a tape measure to gauge a depth of about 70mm for the road base.

Dampen the road base using a hose, and then use a plate compactor to compact the base. This process helps reduce its depth by approximately 10mm, ensuring a sturdy and stable foundation.

Next, lay out the paving sand over the compacted road base, again in a series of mounds for easier spreading.

Use a rake to level the sand, aiming for a layer that is 20-30mm thick.

Place screed rails on either side of the sand bed, ensuring their surface sits at the desired finished level. Poly tubing and lengths of timber can serve as ideal screed rails.

Using a screed and spirit level, work backwards to level the sand layer carefully. This approach minimizes the risk of disturbing the finished surface.

By following these steps and taking the time to prepare the ground correctly, you can create a solid base for laying your outdoor pavers. Remember, a well-prepared foundation is key to achieving a durable and visually appealing paved area.

What Is Meant By Hard Landscaping

What Are the Steps to Laying a Patio

Before you begin laying paving slabs, it's crucial to prepare the patio area properly. If there are existing paving slabs, remove them first. Dig a depth of approximately 150mm across the entire area, ensuring the soil is evenly compacted. Then, spread the sub-base material and use a rake to achieve a consistent depth of 100mm. Ensure the surface is smooth, flat, and firm.

Prepare a concrete mix using three parts sand and one part cement. Add water gradually to achieve a doughy consistency. You can use a cement mixer or a large tub or bucket for mixing. To check if the mix is suitable, take a handful and shape it into a ball. When released, it should retain its shape without excess water or crumbling. Prepare enough concrete to create an even 40mm layer in the patio bed.

Before laying the slabs, dampen them slightly to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the concrete too quickly. Start by placing the first paving slab into position. Lower it onto the concrete mix and gently tap it with a rubber mallet to secure it in place. Ideally, the slab should sit around 15mm into the mortar.

Repeat this process, leaving a gap of 10-15mm between each paving slab, until the entire patio area is covered. Once the slabs are laid, thoroughly spray the entire surface with water until it is completely saturated. Allow the patio to set for at least 24 hours.

The final step in laying a patio involves applying the finishing touches. Use a trowel to fill the gaps between the paving slabs with Marshalls Weatherpoint 365, ensuring there is no residue on the surface of the slabs.

For added decorative appeal, you may consider creating a border edging. Dig a gutter around the perimeter and fill it with sea-washed aggregate or black polished pebbles.

Preparing the Underneath of Paving Slabs With a Sub-Base

When it comes to laying paving slabs or pavers, proper ground preparation and the establishment of a solid sub-base are essential for ensuring the longevity and stability of your patio or pathway. Follow these steps to effectively prepare the underneath of paving slabs with a sub-base.

Start by thoroughly clearing the area, removing any vegetation, rocks, or debris, and ensuring that the ground is firm and compacted. Determine the desired depth for your sub-base, typically recommended to be a minimum of 100mm. Excavate the ground to the determined depth, creating a level surface to accommodate the sub-base.

Use a rake or levelling tool to ensure the ground is level and even, providing a stable base for the sub-layer. Spread crushed rock or hardcore evenly across the excavated area, then rake and compact it to achieve uniformity and solidity. Pay careful attention to levelling the sub-base, as it will establish the foundation for your paving slabs.

Next, add a layer of sharp sand on top of the sub-base. This layer will create a smooth and level surface for the placement of your paving slabs. Use a rake or levelling tool to achieve the desired depth and ensure an even distribution of the sand layer.

By diligently following these steps and giving adequate attention to the preparation of the underneath paving slabs with a sub-base, you can proceed with confidence, knowing that you have created a strong and durable foundation for your patio or pathway.

Which material should you use for the sub-base?

The choice of material for the sub-base depends on the specific project requirements and the expected level of traffic. Here are some commonly used options:

Type 1 MoT (Ministry of Transport) Sub-Base is considered the highest grade and is ideal for areas with heavy traffic, such as driveways. It ensures a solid and well-drained base when compacted.

Ballast and Crusher Run are other commonly used sub-base materials. While they may not offer the same level of stability as Type 1 MoT, they can still work well for driveways and moderate traffic areas.

The suitability of each material depends on the project's requirements. Type 1 MoT is recommended for heavy traffic or commercial projects, while ballast and crusher run can be suitable for driveways and patio areas. Consulting with professionals will help determine the most appropriate material for your specific needs.

Which material should you use for the bedding?

The choice of bedding material depends on the type of paving you are laying. Here are the recommended options:

For concrete block paving, use unbound sharp sand. This compacted material provides a solid and stable bed, preventing movement.

When working with natural sandstone or various shapes and sizes of paving stones, opt for a moist sharp sand and cement mix. This mortar accommodates irregularities, ensuring stability during the laying process.

Building sand is generally unsuitable for bedding due to its less free-draining nature. However, it is an excellent choice for pointing, as it produces a more workable and flexible mortar.

Choosing the right bedding material is crucial for the success and durability of your paving project. Consider the specific requirements of your paving and follow expert recommendations to ensure a stable and long-lasting result.