PATIOS

PATIO DESIGN

  Cut pieces of natural gray stone

Size counts!  There's nothing worse than building a patio that ends up being too small and cramped for your needs. Be sure to preplan, allowing enough space for patio furniture and free traffic circulation.
   
Economical shapes  Some sizes and shapes are more economical to construct. A basic rectangular shaped patio is usually less expensive to construct that one with curved edges. Plan according to paver and material sizes to minimize cuts.
   
Quality construction  As with sidewalks and driveways, a patio needs to be properly excavated and installed to withstand the brutal freeze-thaw cycle of winter. Don't scrimp on recommended specifications for your climate.
   
Durable surfaces  Most stone, concrete and precast pavers will provide durable, long-lasting surfaces if you're sure to follow precautions concerning the use of deicers. Some masonry surfaces benefit from being sealed every year or two, especially if deicers are going to be used.
  

Natural stone

   
Got storage space?  Patios need a good base with adequate drainage. This requires the delivery, movement and placement of tons of 2b crushed limestone, or similar product, for the base. Do you have a place to store the gravel and a way to move stone into the work area? This storage space is needed in addition to your storage area for patio pavers.
   
How's your access?  Patio construction usually requires the removal of large amounts of soil and fill, so be sure to allow for removal and disposal of this "fill dirt." It's not unusual to hit rock while excavating for a patio, so heavy equipment may be required. Do you have good access for an excavator to reach the work area? How much damage will excavation work cause and what will be involved with repairing damaged lawn areas used for access?

CONSTRUCTION OF PATIOS

  Patio stone stacked on a pallet
    secured with chicken wire

A good base  The initial phase of construction is the most important. Excavate enough soil from the proposed patio area to allow for a thick layer of tamped, crushed stone (2b limestone is commonly used in Pennsylvania) thereby providing good drainage and long lasting stability.
   
Watch your back!  Whether you're hand digging, lifting patio stones or shoveling crushed stone, practice proper bending techniques. If you aren't physically able, consider hiring a professional to do the job.
   
Take your time  You'll want the finished project to be durable, as well as attractive and easy to walk on. Be sure to set precast pavers straight and even. 
   
Proper tools  Modern technology made laser levels affordable to all. If you can't afford one, use a line level or long, straight, rigid board with a traditional level attached to it. Make sure your patio is level, or slightly pitched away from your house if surface runoff is a factor.
   
Finishing up  If you're planning to install flower beds or lawn areas adjacent to your new patio, remove large rocks and construction debris before backfilling these areas with good quality topsoil. Your plants will reward you! 
  
Down the road  Plan on power washing your patio as needed to remove dirt and algae. This will keep your patio investment looking its best!
   

Natural stone was used to make an attractive
connecting walkway in this landscape
  

• lawn edging
• garden fence
• garden art
• landscape lighting
• ponds
• swimming pools
• landscape walls
• waterfalls