Building a Patio on a Slope: A Guide
If you want to construct a patio on sloping ground, you may be wondering how a contractor will achieve your aim. This article provides a step-by-step guide to the things a patio builder will do when constructing a patio on sloped ground. Read on to find out more.
1) Level the ground
Before a contractor can construct a patio on sloped ground, they must first ensure that the entire area where you want to build your patio is level. If it isn't, the contractor will use a spade to dig into the slope. If the patio or the slope is particularly large, the contractor may use a mini-excavator to help get the job done quicker.
2) Build the retaining wall
Next, the patio builder will dig a trench for the retaining wall. The contractor will then build a retaining wall in the trench to support your patio's structure and prevent any soil movement above or below your patio.
3) Backfill the retaining wall
After building the retaining wall, the contractor will backfill the bottom of it with dirt. Backfilling will help to ensure that the wall has adequate drainage. Failure to backfill could result in flooding of the ground and instability.
4) Lay down a foundation
After digging up the ground, the contractor will lay down the base for your patio. The base consists of different layers, the first layer is hardcore, and a layer of fine sand follows this. This measure is necessary because it provides a foundation for your paving slabs, preventing them from shifting over time and removing the risk of the patio sinking into the earth.
5) Lay the patio pavers
Finally, once you've laid down the foundation, your contractor will lay your paving slabs to form the base for your patio. When laying your pavers, you may want to ensure they follow a brick pattern where each row is shifted from its predecessor by half a tile width. The contractor will use a spirit level to check that each paver is level as he works. If he needs to make any adjustments, he will gently tap the paver with a rubber mallet until it is level. The contractor will then add mortar to the joints between each paver to seal them in place.
If you want to know more about this subject, contact a patio builder today. A contractor will be happy to discuss how they can help you to achieve your dream patio.