This is fairly straightforward. With paving slabs, depending on how much they weigh, you may need someone else to help and assist you. Before you start any How To, please read all the steps carefully so that if you have any questions, you can contact us on 0121 706 0404, and ask our team to clarify for you. Don't forget you can also drop us an email sales@johnsonstimber.co.uk.
For this How to...You will need:
- Paving Slabs
- Wheelbarrow
- Rake
- Spacer
- Wacker Plate (optional)
- Hardcore
- Mortar Mix
- Wooden Pegs
- Spirit Level
- Rubber Mallet
Step 1
Dig down to a depth of around in the area that you will be paving to a depth of around 15cm to allow room for the hardcore, mortar and paving slabs. Lay 5cm - 8cms of hardcore, once laid out use a rake to make sure that the hardcore is flat and there are no bumps.
Step 2
Use a wacker plate to level the hardcore. This step is not vital, but it stops the rubble from moving while applying the Paving and provides a solid base that is unlikely to move and shift.
Step 3
Using a hammer place some wooden pegs into your surface, these need to be level as these will be the markers for your Patio. Make sure they're level with any existing paving and manhole covers. Place several over the site, using a spirit level or piece of timber to make sure they are all level
Step 4
If you are going for a random design, place a few different sized Slabs in the centre of your surface to see which slabs interlock well together. Alternatively use paper as markers and move those around until you get an idea for the design.
Step 5
Next, make your mortar mix – 1 part cement to 5 parts building sand. Lay the slabs on a layer of mortar between five to eight centimetres in-depth, once they are positioned tap down firmly with a mallet, making sure each slab is level to the pegs you put down earlier. As you go along make sure you leave a 1cm gap between each slab, which will be filled with mortar later.
Step 6
Once all the slabs are nicely laid, hose them down thoroughly so they will not be stained by any Mortar on the top of them.
Step 7
Using a pointed trowel make sure you fill the gaps between the Slabs with your mortar, ensure not to get and mortar on top of the slabs, as this will stain them if allowed to set.
Step 8
Allow time for the mortar to go hard, then enjoy your new patio!
So, for all your garden patio needs look no further than Johnsons Timber Supplies, call us on 0121 706 0404 or email sales@johnsonstimber.co.uk.