How to lay a patio: a step-by-step guide to building a patio

How to Build a DIY Patio Like a Pro The basic steps for this DIY project are the same for each material. The cost of a DIY backyard paver patio is between $1 and $35 per square foot for the materials, with an added $10 to $20 for any hardscaping required. Before beginning a backyard patio project, gather the required tools and equipment.

Low Maintenance Front yard Landscaping

Add a perimeter border of landscape edging, wood, or bricks to contain the gravel. Then, line the space with fabric to block weeds and enable drainage. Set up a string line across the center of the patio in the direction you want the water to drain. Tie the stringline to stakes driven at each end of the patio so it stretches in the best drainage direction.

Mark the Patio Edges

Especially when you add in the extra labor of making them.With basic tools, you’ll be able to create a smooth area for sitting and dining that will last for years.For a raised patio, dig 4 inches (about 10 cm) deep, and for a level patio, dig 8 inches (20.3 cm) deep.This is a heavy beast; you’ll need a trailer or pickup truck and a couple of strong bodies to move it around.If your stone is thick like ours, tamp it along with the bricks.

Apply a 4 to 5-inch layer of three-quarter-inch crushed stone. Then, mist it with water to settle it into a smooth, firm surface. Over time, refill any low spots to maintain the patio. Yet another option is fieldstone, the rocks removed from the soil when land is cleared. Though truly distinctive when installed properly, its finished surface is much rougher than flat stones like slate and bluestone.

Step 7: Laying the Stone

As a last resort, rent a large trash bin, at least 10 cu. Yds., and move the dirt into it with a wheelbarrow. Let the company know you’ll be filling it with dirt, though, because it’ll likely limit how much you can put in. This project is easy on beginners and leaves you with a sharp, stylish patio you'll be proud of. Between the stones, and check that the matching faces of the stones are flush and that the second stone is level with the first from side to side. Get inspired with these budget-friendly and creative DIY patio ideas. I would opt for professional installation if I’m paying for more expensive patio material, like stone, pavers, or engineered wood/ composite materials. Now that you know how to build a patio, you’ll need to decide if this is the right project for you. Working with heavy building materials isn’t for everyone—and does pose safety risks. Before putting down the concrete pavers, plan how you are going to place the paver stones. Typically you want to start from an outside edge or corner. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide https://www.blinx.biz/clear-view-builders-construction site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Bags of mix, it’ll cost you about $200 per cubic yard. We hired a pump truck for $180 and included fiber reinforcement in the mix, and our total price came to $116 per cubic yard. This project took just over four yards, so ordering ready-mix concrete was a great deal cheaper than mixing it ourselves. Once all the stones are laid, align the grout joints using a pry bar or flat bar. They are lightweight and easy to install, but more expensive than gravel. It is possible to build patios made of concrete, brick, stone, or pavers, among other materials. Concrete patios require little upkeep and are quite durable. Materials like pavers, gravel, sand, and landscaping fabric are needed to make a patio. Furthermore, the required tools include a wheelbarrow, rubber mallet, shovel, and level.