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Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 1:04 pm
by alikirk
Firstly what an absolute goldmine of information and inspiration. The obvious attention to detail deserves much respect.

I have a question. Using the individual bedding technique to lay a natural stone patio with a semi-dry bedding mix 10:1 with cement, you mention “The bedding material should be spread to the area and compacted either by trampling or with a couple of passes with a plate compactor prior to bed preparation..�. Is ‘bed preparation’ the rippling of the top of the bedding layer, allowing the flag to be laid so it sits approx 8mm proud before being tapping level? Furthermore, if not tapped back down so the bedding material supporting is again FULLY compacted, will there not be subsequent settlement with foot traffic on the patio or does the inclusion of cement in the bedding layer ‘set’ and create a solid layer once cured none the less? Many many thanks for any reply.

Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 5:02 pm
by Tony McC
You answered yourself in your penultimate sentence - the cement content 'forgives' any minor incidence of partial compaction.

The original trampling or limited passes of the plate compactor ensures the bed is 'fairly compacted', but there has to be adequate 'give' to accommodate bedding of the flags, so compaction to refusal during bed preparation is not required.

Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2005 5:28 pm
by alikirk
many thanks. It is always best to be sure.

Ta