Patio Blocks - Why use blocks in your patio?

Patios are basically a great way to enhance your walkway or yard. They add the landscape to the eyes and at the same time make your exteriors attractive. The best part is that these patio blocks are very easy to install and it can even become your weekend project. The task is moderately challenging but the effort will turn out to be completely worth it after you hear compliments from friends and neighbours.

For installation of the patio blocks you need to have certain materials and tools and these are as follows:

•     Patio Blocks
•     Sand
•      Landscape fabric
•       Tamp
•       Shovel
•      Crushed Stone
•      Push broom
•       Stakes and strings

Other factors that you need to keep in mind for putting down the patio is to measure the area where you want to construct the patio. Stakes and strings can be used to outline the area.  The measurements should be in accordance with the blocks you use. Even if you have to increase or decrease the area by a few inches it is okay as at the end you won’t have to cut the whole blocks. Avoid cutting the patio blocks.

You need to dig almost around 5 inches deep as you first need to put 2 inches of crushed stone followed by 1 ½ inch of sand and then patio blocks which are usually 2 inches in depth. After digging you need to flatten the ground with a flat shovel before placing the patio blocks.

You need to thump the crushed stones after pouring them in the hole so that a firm and even structure develops. Hand thump is used if the patio area is small but for larger areas you can rent a compressor for tamping. You can use landscape fabric over the stone and this way you can prevent weeds from growing on them. After the stone sand is poured over it and is of around one to one and a half inches, you then need to level the sand carefully so that the block is laid properly over it. You should avoid walking over the levelled sand. If edge restraints are to be installed then these have to be put in to place first. You should follow manufacturer’s suggestions when installing the blocks.

The patio blocks have to be laid straight into the sand, you should not drag them on the sand as you might disrupt the sand level. You can fill the patio with both patio and brick and bricks can be turned on one side and used as edging. But these have to be put gently and tamped. Landscaping sand can be used on the blocks and can be used for filling the gaps between the blocks. It might take a little time for the sand to settle and some water can be sprinkled to firm the block. Constantly with time the blocks will settle down on the ground.

Some tips to keep in mind before installing the blocks:

• You must see the weather before laying the block in your yard or patio. Avoid this project during rainy seasons as you don’t want your project to stop just because of the rain.

• The patio should be built on an elevated ground to avoid rain water pooling of your patio.

Putting down Patio blocks is a great way to enhance the beauty of your yard and also can be an inexpensive way.