Do you wet slabs before laying?

Before you can start laying patio slabs, you need to dampen them so they don't dry out your concrete too quickly. Then, lower your first paving slab into position. Lay it into the concrete mix and gently tap it with a rubber mallet so it's fixed in place.

marshalls.co.uk - How to Lay a Patio | Laying a Patio on Sand or Soil for Beginners - Marshalls

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How to Lay a Patio

If you're looking to make a small change to your patio and update what is currently there, then here is the guide you need. Here’s how to lay a patio for beginners in 6 easy steps. Dig 150mm into your patio area Lay a compacted sub-base of 100mm Cover the area with 40mm of concrete mix Lay paving slabs 15mm into the concrete with a 10-15mm gap Leave to set for at least 24 hours Fill the gaps between the paving slabs with concrete mix

What tools do I need?

Trowel

Rake

Wheelbarrow

Shovel

Rubber mallet

Spirit level

Tape measure

Cement mixer (optional)

String line and pegs (optional)

What materials do I need?

Paving slabs

Sub-base aggregate

Sand

Cement

QUICK TIP: WHAT SAND SHOULD I USE FOR LAYING A PATIO?

Wondering which type of sand to put with cement for your concrete mix? To get the best results, use sharp sand. It’s perfect for patios and gardens, and will prevent moles or rats from tunnelling underneath the paving slabs.

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO LAYING A PATIO

Prepping the area

Before even thinking of laying paving slabs, you need to prepare your patio area. If you’re upgrading paving slabs that are already in place, dig these up before beginning. Dig a depth of around 150mm across the whole area, making sure the soil is evenly compacted. Then tip in the sub-base, raking it into a consistent depth of 100mm. Make sure it’s smooth, flat and firm.

Creating concrete for laying your patio

Prepare a concrete mix of three parts sand and one part cement, adding water to create a doughy consistency. You can use a cement mixer, or a large tub or bucket. To check the mix is thick enough, pick some up and mould into a ball. When you let go, it should retain its shape without oozing water or falling apart. You’ll need to make enough concrete to make an even 40mm layer in the patio bed.

Laying patio slabs

Before you can start laying patio slabs, you need to dampen them so they don’t dry out your concrete too quickly. Then, lower your first paving slab into position. Lay it into the concrete mix and gently tap it with a rubber mallet so it’s fixed in place. Ideally it wants to sit 15mm in the mortar. Repeat this process, leaving a 10-15mm gap between each paving slab, until your patio is covered. Once you’ve laid your patio, spray the whole area with water until it’s completely saturated, and leave it to set for at least 24 hours.

Finishing touches

The final part of laying a patio is applying the finishing touches. Use a trowel to fill the gaps between your paving slabs with Marshalls Weatherpoint 365, ensuring there’s no residue on the slabs’ surface. Then, you might want to create a decorative border by digging a gutter around the perimeter, and filling it with some sea washed aggregate or black polished pebbles. For more information on laying block paving, check out our video guide on how to lay patio slabs below:

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Is it better to screw or nail subfloor?

Screws are preferred over nails for subfloor and underlayment installations as they provide strong and tight connections that help prevent the floor from squeaking. Before starting your next subfloor or underlayment installation, make sure you have the right subfloor screw gun for the job.

fastenersplus.com - Underlayment & Subfloor Screws at Fasteners Plus

Underlayment and Subfloor Screws provide strong and long-lasting holds for securing both underlayment and subfloor in subfloor installations. Screws are preferred over nails for subfloor and underlayment installations as they provide strong and tight connections that help prevent the floor from squeaking. Before starting your next subfloor or underlayment installation, make sure you have the right subfloor screw gun for the job. We have several options to choose from so you’re sure to find one that will fit your needs. Be sure to check out our other construction screws and be sure to pick up everything you need to tackle your next project! Have Questions? Don’t see the Underlayment and Subfloor Screws you’re looking for? We’re here to help and can do special orders, too! Call one of our knowledgeable product specialists at 888-794-1590 for any product or special order questions today!