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Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 3:21 pm
by earthstrider
I'm embarking on the DIY build of a largish patio in concrete slabs (I think). Never having done this sort of thing before, I've spent a couple of hours brushing up on the info on the very useful main site but would be grateful for clarification on a few points:
1. My design incorporates two 3 metre (four metre radius) curves. Would a 4 1/4 inch disc grinder with masonry cutting disc be up to the job of cutting the slabs or am I missing the plot?
2. The curved edges are about 8 inches above grass level. I'm planning to use house bricks (three courses) for the edge but would one row be enough or should it be a tied in double row? Is There a better solution?
3. Does anyone know of a good supplier of slabs in the Malvern, Worcestershire area that isn't going to rip me off?
Many thanks.
Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 10:05 pm
by Tony McC
1 - I can't follow the description of two 3 metre (4m rad) curves - lost me completely, there, Earthstrider. However, it would be possible to cut the flags with a nangle grinder, but I'd recommend investing in a diamond blade, rather than an abrasive masonry grade blade. And when you consider that you can hire a proper cut-off saw for a weekend for only 25 quid, you have to ask whether it's worth struggling with an itsy-bitsy nangle grinder?
2 - the curved edges are above ground so bear in mind your cut edges, which are rarely attractive however they're cut, will be visible. As for the bwk, I'd strongly recommend engineering brick rather than "house" bricks that may or may not be frost proof. A single skin of brick should be adequate for a single step such as this.
3 - Malvern? A good friend's father lives there, but I don't know any of the local BMs so I can't really help.
Posted: Wed May 17, 2006 2:09 pm
by earthstrider
1. Sorry Tony, I didn't make myself clear. The curves in question are the on the free edge and are a concave curve following a 4 metre radius. The curves are 3 metres long. If you still can't visualize it - it doesnt matter because with 6 metres of cutting to do, I'll take your advice and hire the right piece of kit for the job.
2. I was planning to have the cut edges concealed by the brickwork doubling as an edging stip rather than the slabs laying over the top of the brickwork. I haven't seen any examples of this on the main pages so is this a bad idea?
3. Your good friends father, and by what I can make out, just about everyone else's father enjoy's living in Malvern. I swear the aveage age here is about 70!
Posted: Thu May 18, 2006 8:55 pm
by Tony McC
1 - Aaaah...you have a 3m long arc with a radius of 4 metres: clear as mud, now!
2 - I think there might be summat about this on the Cutting-in Flags pages, but I'm not certain. However, what you propose is absolutely fine.
3 - 70? Mere youngsters! I'm sure Alan is well into his 80s.
Posted: Fri May 19, 2006 10:32 am
by earthstrider
Many thanks Tony, wish me luck.
Now, if you could do something about the weather.....