Creating curved patio. - Best strategy to mark, cut and bed

[Andy83]

Hi folks. New to this.

I am tasked with laying a mixed slab patio - approx 5m x 13m. However, I dont want a simple rectangular patio. Instead, the patio needs to be curved in a nice "S" like shape - bit exaggerated but hopefully you can visualise

Anyway my question is this......how the hell do I mark and cut this shape? I have heard that some use a hose to mark out then cut - is this a viable method? Also, so I set the slabs out loose, mark, then cut individually and bed or can I bed them in first, mark up and cut as a oner? Thanks in advance guys....a detailed description would be great

[digerjones]

I would lay them out loose, then mark, then cut. Try not to see cut edges

[Andy83]

Thanks Dylan,

[lutonlagerlout]

the hose is a bit of a bodge method,better to use fixed points and radii ,I refer to lay beyond the curve then mark out and cut afterwards
LLL

[London Stone Paving]

I would agree with LLL. Using a string and fixed radius will provide much cleaner curves. Also agree on over laying and cutting after. You'll get a much more accurate cut and a superior finish

Steve

[mickg]

Nothing better for marking curves than this flexible kit from Probst

Probst Flexmarker kit

[jd paving]

i find using plastic window trim to be pretty good myself

cheers john

[lemoncurd1702]

Nothing better for marking curves than this flexible kit from Probst

Probst Flexmarker kit

They look quite useful but Probst don't half know how to charge.
The flexi strips look like tent poles and wonder if something similar could be fashioned using these even if just for marking on a flat area.

[seanandruby]

I use an old cobra, very flexible. Electricians cable pullers nice kits.

[mickg]

It cost £100

comes in a protective tube so the 1 metre long poles are always lay flat unlike having a piece of plastic trim which after a few uses will become kinked

has clips to fasten it to road pins or metal bracket to hold it in place on top of the paving so you can mark what ever shape you require

you can use 3 lengths to make a circle for building a raised planter or more for a larger circle to construct a mowing strip or wall around a tree... and its always a true shape

[exoticpete]

I'm with mick we got one a few years back very handy bit of kit helps us cut true curves every time

[lemoncurd1702]

Ok, bit the bullet and purchased one £132 with vat and delivery. Still think it's expensive for what you get in the box, but it will easily pay for itself with the time saved.
Tried it yesterday and it's a thumbs up.