The Garden Patio
Makeover
Transforming a Small Space

Part 1 * Part 2 * Part 3

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Doing a patio right is not exactly child's play as there's lots of work to be done.  It starts with digging the area to be surfaced and getting it prepared.  The shape is of course among the very first things to consider.  A little creativity goes a long way toward a more interesting finished product.

Professionals will use surveying tools to ensure that all slopes and grades are appropriate for drainage (off the patio and away from the home) as well as aesthetics.

Once satisfied with the size, shape, and grade of the patio area the dirt should be tamped firm.  A power tamping machine makes this a bit more bearable.

Speaking of drainage...  It is important to plan ahead for anything that won't be possible once the patio is complete.  In this case we needed to run our downspout under the patio area.  Make sure the drain pipe slopes away from the house!

Next, it's time for a layer of special fabric.

Followed by a layer of compacted aggregate stone to serve as a base for the Belgard pavers.

Clean sand is the next layer, smoothed to just the right depth.

Roy wanted to use a rosette-style element in the patio.  After finding the center of the patio area he begins to lay out the specially shaped pavers.

You know what they say, "Measure twice, cut once." When the design is unique there's going to be some more cutting involved.

Hey, this is starting to look pretty good!

Next Week: The finished project?  Check back to see...
 

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