A patio serves as a gathering for family members and friends for outdoor fun, barbecues and other gatherings. While there are a variety of options for patio layout, many homeowners choose concrete slabs, which are inexpensive compared to other stones and can create a safe, uniform patio surface. Installing these stones requires extensive preparation to ensure a level surface and proper drainage below your patio for a lifetime of use.
Step One
Put down wooden stakes to lay out the design for your patio area. Tie long nylon cords between the stakes to mark off the area.
Step Two
Excavate the area 7 inches deep, using a garden spade or flat-edged shovel. This will remove grass and loose soil, revealing the sturdier sub-soil below. Check periodically with a level and tape measure to ensure that you are maintaining a uniform 7-inch depth.
Step Three
Level the newly-exposed area with a plate compactor or hand tamper. This will create a smooth, even surface to support your patio installation. Cover the area with landscape fabric to create a smooth, even base for your installation. Landscape fabric will also aid with controlling drainage and water runoff beneath your patio.
Step Four
Cover the landscape fabric with a 4-inch layer of patio/paver base material. Use a garden rake to spread the material fully and evenly across the fabric. Use a level if necessary to check the proper lay of the surface.
Step Five
Cover the landscape fabric with a 4-inch layer of patio/paver base material. Use a garden rake to spread the material fully and evenly across the fabric. Use a level if necessary to check the proper lay of the surface.