subject: How To Build A Patio [print this page] A patio is an outdoor space that people frequently use for feasting or other outside pastimes. It frequently adjoins a residence and is most times paved. They are occasionally termed balconies. A patio improves beauty and style to a house. A patio can make over a dull home into an attraction for passers-by. Your patio is the place where you take a break or have a little assembly to gossip with colleagues.
A patio may be roofless or covered; the style is influenced by your preferences. It is very costly to set up a patio at your home especially if you hire somebody to construct it. It is cheaper to create it on your own but it requires much time and effort. You will need the assistance of friends or relatives. Here are the directions to guide you in building a patio on your own.
Materials Necessary:
Pavers
Pavers sand
4 wood stakes
Mason's cord
2" x 4" board, 6 feet in length
2" x 4" board, 1 foot in length
4" x 4" square post
Gloves
Tools Required:
Square shovel
Steel tine rake
Measuring tape
Rubber mallet
Level
Broom
Instructions:
1.Decide where you want to erect the patio and select what size and shape you want.
2.Use measuring tape to measure the size.
3.Using wood stakes and mason's cord, outline the shape and the size of the patio.
4.Use shovel and dig about 4 inches deep.
5.Make the ground as level and smooth as possible with the tine rake.
6.Use the 4 x 4 post to make the dirt solid.
7.Lay a row of pavers across and downwards along the area that you cleared ensuring that they fit suitable in the space.
8.After verifying that the measurements are right remove the pavers.
9.Take the 6-feet 2 x 4 and place it horizontally on the ground then lay it lengthways. Each time use the level to see if if the area is level.
10.Spread the pavers sand on the ground about 2 inches thick.
11.Make the sand compact by using the 4 x 4 post.
12.Even out the sand by using the 1-foot 2 x 4 post.
13.Lay the first paver against the structure and use the level to check if it is level.
14.Use the 1-foot 2 x 4 to smooth the sand once more.
15.Lay the next paver alongside the first one and use the rubber mallet to adjust it so that it fits properly into position. If required, remove or add more sand to make it even.
16.Continue laying the pavers each time using the prior paver as a guide. Continue until all the pavers are positioned. Use the level or the 6-feet 2 x 4 to check if the pavers are level at intervals.
17.When you complete placing the pavers spread sand over them then use the broom to sweep the sand to get it into the spaces between the pavers.
18.Now that you have the paved surface prepared, you can build a cover over it for shade if you prefer a covered patio.
Tips:
Pavers break easily so they should be handled with caution and not when in a hurry.
Do not step on pavers to make them level. They will absolutely break.
Wear gloves when working with pavers because they have a habit to make hands rough.
Ensure that you have the time and the commitment to put into building a patio because it takes a lot of time and work.
Add a patio set on your patio accompanied by other fixtures to make it more attractive and enjoyable.
