How do I order products to build a patio starting from the base?

Building a patio from the base involves careful planning and ordering the right materials in sequence. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you order the necessary products and prepare for installation:

1. Plan and Measure Your Patio Area

• Mark the Area: Use stakes and string or marking paint to outline the patio dimensions. Include a slight slope (2%) for drainage.
• Check for Utilities: Ensure there are no underground utilities in the area before digging. Call before you dig link.

2. Order Base Materials

• Excavation: Dig out the area to the required depth. For most patios, this means excavating 6–8 inches. In cold climates or areas with poor soil, go deeper (up to 10–12 inches). When you are excavating down, you need to remove all soil and get to the layer of clay. This can vary depending on the area.
• Base Layer: Order 20mm road crush for a 4–6 inch base layer, calculate the volume needed based on your patio’s area. For example, a 100 sq. ft. patio with a 3-inch base needs about 1 cubic yard of crushed stone. Use our volume calculator at checkout or at the top banner of our website here.
• Alternative Base Option: Consider Gator Base products if you want to reduce excavation and labor. These panels are lightweight, easy to install, and replace the need for several inches of crushed stone.

3. Order Bedding Layer and Edge Restraints

• Bedding Layer: Order 5 mm washed sand for a 1-inch thick bedding layer on top of the base. This helps level and support the patio stones.
• Edge Restraints: Order plastic or metal edge restraints to keep pavers in place.

4. Order Patio Stones

• Choose Your Stones: Select the type, size, and color of patio stones or pavers you prefer.
• Quantity: Measure your patio area and calculate how many stones you need based on product size. Generally you should add 10% extra material to account for any cuts that need to be made.
• Installation Accessories: Order polymeric sand for filling joints between pavers (optional but recommended for stability and weed prevention).

5. Order Tools and Safety Gear

• Tools: Shovel, wheelbarrow, plate compactor or hand tamper, rake, level, rubber mallet, and screed board.
• Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection for compacting.

6. Order Optional Add-ons

• Weed Barrier: Additional geotextile or landscape fabric for extra weed prevention.
• Mortar or Adhesive: If you want a more permanent installation, order mortar or adhesive (not always necessary for most patio stone projects).
• Tools: Rent a Vacwerks suction clamp for easier installs and a masonry table saw 16.5 to get the perfect fit.

Summary Table: What to Order

By following this process, you’ll have all the materials and tools you need to build a durable, well-drained patio from the ground up.