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Posted: Sun Jun 05, 2005 8:03 pm
by BrianF
We are planning a patio and our research is a little confused regarding base layers. We have a hard clay soil. Will it be sufficient (as your website indicates) to simply level this off and lay the (stone) slabs onto a 50-75mm bed of sharp sand?
Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2005 12:18 pm
by InfAddict
Yes, usually for a light use patio, a sub-base is not required. However, one may be required where the ground is soft or particularly uneven or you need to raise levels. Have a look at the Sub Base FAQ page for further information.
Oh, and you don't want to be laying onto a bed of pure sharp sand (and not as thick as 75mm anyway). Have a look at the Laying Flags page (particularly the section on Bedding Layer) and also the Laying Riven page. A mix of 10:1 sharp sand to cement is usually recommended, around 35-45mm depth with a maximum depth of 50mm.
Posted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 12:27 pm
by Tony McC
What makes people ask "would such-and-such a method, as described on your website, be adequate?"
Do they think I create spoof information and post it to the website for a laugh? Or do they really think I'll turn around and say that, actually, you'd be better of with this, that and the other?
No disrespect to BrianF, the OP, but it's something that I've noticed a few times over the last month or so, both here in the Brew Cabin and on the 'phone/emails. It seems similar to going into, say, a Ford dealer and asking is Fords really were the best car! :laugh:
Posted: Thu Jun 09, 2005 12:50 pm
by BrianF
In my defense (your honour..) what I was trying to get at was the reasoning behind the apparently conflicting advice. Suppliers (Stonemarket for example) indicate that a sub base should always be laid and then a full mortar bed plus each flag coated on the underside with cement mixed to a creamy consistency.
The above might be necessary if I am going to drive my Ford on the patio but as Infaddict's helpful answer makes clear our application is far simpler and easier.
Thanks again for the site and advice, I will post some pictures in a few weeks time when the project is complete.
Posted: Fri Jun 10, 2005 2:59 pm
by Tony McC
I have had "words" with Mr Stonemarket, amongst others, regarding the quality, or lack thereof, of laying information given in the brochures and catalogues. Stonemarket are by no means the worst - in fact, they are one of the better companies in that respect, but they've still some way to go.
Good luck with the paving 