How to Build a Brick Patio | This Old House

Summary

In this detailed patio construction tutorial, the process begins with removing old materials and preparing the base for the new patio. Graded base material is laid and compacted before string lines are used to ensure precision. Pavers are carefully placed using a running bond pattern, with extra attention to joint leveling and sand application for stability. Plastic edging is added for reinforcement, followed by compaction to lock the pavers in place. Despite weather challenges, the project progresses smoothly, showcasing teamwork and expert techniques to create a durable and beautiful patio.

Takeaways

• 😀 Proper preparation is key: removing old materials and compacting the subgrade before laying down new base materials is essential.
• 😀 Graded base material, consisting of 3/4-inch stone down to stone dust, should be spread evenly and compacted for a solid foundation.
• 😀 A string line set at 6 3/4 inches below the top of the step ensures uniformity across the patio, guiding the base layer depth.
• 😀 Use a screed rail to ensure the base material is consistently 2 inches below the string line, adjusting for any inconsistencies like depressions.
• 😀 Compaction is a crucial step: running the plate compactor over the base helps settle the material and ensures even height.
• 😀 Setting pavers properly: they should be dropped in place, not dragged through the sand, to maintain alignment and avoid shifting.
• 😀 Running bond is a popular paver pattern, starting with a full brick at the corner, ensuring the pattern flows consistently across the patio.
• 😀 The weather can change unexpectedly—preparing for rain with proper gear like blue tops helps avoid delays during construction.
• 😀 Plastic edging with a lip that fits under the bricks keeps the pavers in place and is secured with rust-resistant spikes.
• 😀 Sand is spread over the patio and vibrated into the joints using a plate compactor to lock the pavers into place and provide a stable surface.

Q & A

What is the first step in building the patio?

The first step is to remove seven inches of the existing material, get rid of the old brick, and then prepare the subgrade by running a plate compactor over it.

What type of base material is used for the patio?

The base material used is called 'graded base,' which consists of 3/4-inch stone that is mixed with stone dust.

How thick should the graded base layer be?

The graded base should be spread about 2 inches thick before running the plate compactor over it.

What is the purpose of the string line in patio construction?

The string line helps to ensure that the graded base is set at a consistent height of 3 inches below the string, providing a level reference point for the patio.

What is the role of the screed rail in this process?

The screed rail is set underneath the string line and placed in sand. Its role is to guide the leveling of the sand to the correct height for the patio bricks.

Why is it important to ensure that the pavers are not dragged through the sand?

Dragging the pavers through the sand can disturb the sand layer, causing uneven surfaces. Instead, pavers should be dropped into place by clicking and positioning them directly.

What type of pattern is used to lay the pavers?

The pavers are laid in a 'running bond' pattern, where whole bricks run across the patio and the joints are staggered.

How are the edges of the patio secured?

Rigid plastic edging with a lip underneath the brick is installed along the edges, and galvanized spikes are used to secure the edging in place. The spikes rust, making them harder to pull out over time.

What is the purpose of spreading sand over the completed patio?

The sand is spread across the patio to fill in the joints between the pavers. Once the sand is spread, a plate compactor is used to vibrate the sand into the joints, locking the pavers into place.

How does the weather affect the patio construction process?

The weather plays a role, as storms can cause delays. In the video, the team prepared for bad weather by purchasing blue tarps to cover the patio area, ensuring the project continued smoothly despite rain.