How to Install a Walkway & Patio
- 1). Use wooden stakes and string to stake out the site where you plan to install your patio. Measure the dimensions to ensure the space will fit your needs, including backyard dining, a hammock or container gardens. Once you're happy with the patio site, create an outline for the walkway. Decide on the best entry and exit point from the patio and the most pleasant and direct route to your garden, driveway or other area.
- 2). Call your utility company to check that the sites do not interfere with any underground wires or pipes, and adjust your site plans as necessary.
- 3). Dig out the sites where you plan to install the patio and walkway. Continue digging until the surface is at least 9 inches deep. If your ground is prone to freezing in winter, dig below the frost line to prevent frost heave damage.
- 4). Compact the surface with a hand tamper or metal plate compactor until it is level. Secure landscape fabric over the compacted soil, driving metal spikes through the fabric every 2 feet. The fabric will inhibit weed growth and improve drainage of the foundation.
- 5). Place wood or metal edging against the border of the patio and walkway. Use a sledge hammer to drive 10-inch nail spikes through the edging slots into the ground. The edging will prevent the patio and walkway stones from shifting or sliding with normal wear and tear.
- 6). Dump a 4-inch layer of gravel over the surface and spread it even with a rake or 2-by-4. Slope the surface of the gravel 1 inch for every 4 feet to direct water away from the home. Compact the surface of the gravel, and then add another 4 inches of gravel to the surface. Compact the gravel again until the surface is flat and slightly sloped. Pour 2 inches of course sand over the gravel and spread it with the 2-by-4.
- 7). Press the first paver or stone firmly into the sand in a corner of the patio that touches the house. Set the next paver beside the first, tapping it with a rubber mallet until it is level with the first. Continue to place the pavers according to the pattern, using a level to check that the surface is level. Maintain consistent spacing of no more than 1/8-inch between the stones. Work your way across the patio until you reach the walkway entrance.
- 8). Set the first stone of the walkway using the same method applied for setting the patio stones. Continue to place the stones 1/8-inch apart until you set the last stone or paver.
- 9). Pour fine-grained sand over the surface of the patio and walkway. Compact the sand between the stones using a stiff brush. Continue to add sand until you've filled all of the spaces to provide cushioning between the stones as they settle.
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