 |
PatiosPatios should be planned out first, deciding what materials you will use; Paving - Brick - Wood.....or a mix of these. When planning how to build, determine what size it will be preferably in multiples of pavings allowing enough room for dining, lounging or whatever you will use the area for and be practical, too small an area will NOT serve the purpose it's intended for especially garden furniture on patios. If it's to be of paving or brick and adjoining an existing building allow 15cm(6") down from the internal floor level to the finished level outside. When you're building for disabled access or want both inside and outside at the same level such as at patio doors, you will need to raise the finish accordingly, so protect brickwork on the house with a coating of liquid silicone where it 'joins' the house. when elevating to first floor or to a higher level you will need to build a raised version on brick pillars or similar.
CONSTRUCTION Your patio should be bedded on a mortar mix to ensure solid fixing and not on sand as this will be eroded, leaving an uneven surface. The next layer down will be (a)a concrete mix if heavy traffic is expected or (b) a hardcore base preferably compacted with a vibrating plate, which can be hired by the day or week from local hire centres. As an example the overall depth will be, -50mm(2") paving. If the ground is not firm at this depth then dig deeper and allow additional hardcore. When setting out allow a gradual slope away from the house of approx 25mm(1") per 5 Metres(12'). Try and set out to an even number of pavings otherwise you will have to cut pavings using a cutting disc or hammer and bolster. After compacting the hardcore or concrete lay the pavings parallel to the house in courses, one row at a time using a straight edge and level as you proceed. Ideally use a string line to 'run in' each course, lining all pavings in straight rows. Allow the pavings to set overnight before jointing which should be done using a damp but not wet mortar. Wipe any excess mortar off with a damp sponge to keep pavings clean. Joints should be full or tooled using a jointing tool to leave a slightly rounded finish. Mike Lyons.....Any questions! Please contact me. I'd welcome your comments, tips and suggestions, for more information click here (BOOKMARK HOMEPAGE FOR QUICK REFERENCE)
|
