Posted: Mon Sep 18, 2006 8:49 pm
Sorry to sound like a complete patio virgin but....
I had understood that there were 2 schools of thought; most guidance I have read clearly says slabs should be laid on a mortar bed (on top of sand/hardcore). However, I have also read that it is OK just to lay slabs direct on the sharp sand layer and then dry mortar the joints. Also use a mortar-bedded kerb edge to keep everything together. I also know keen DIY-ers who swear a mortar bed is not necessary
Help! What should I do? Naturally I would rather avoid the mess and hassle that a mortar bed would bring. I also note that my existing slabs have for 18 years sat on nothing more that compacted clay soil!
I had understood that there were 2 schools of thought; most guidance I have read clearly says slabs should be laid on a mortar bed (on top of sand/hardcore). However, I have also read that it is OK just to lay slabs direct on the sharp sand layer and then dry mortar the joints. Also use a mortar-bedded kerb edge to keep everything together. I also know keen DIY-ers who swear a mortar bed is not necessary
Help! What should I do? Naturally I would rather avoid the mess and hassle that a mortar bed would bring. I also note that my existing slabs have for 18 years sat on nothing more that compacted clay soil!
