What does it take to build a patio?

[Dozeynoo]

DH has agreed that it would be a good idea to have a larger patio area in the back garden. He has even agreed that this should be in the form of a totally new patio rather than just adding a couple of rows to the existing one.

So how has any one any tips before I head off into the garden with my spade?

Where do I get hardcore from?

My sister.

Not the answer you were looking for.

You get hardcore from any builder merchants along with the sand and cement.

Once you source the pavers the same company may also provide details of where you can get the above.

Tips - you may need a skip ! With the soil we had to dig out for ours to get it level, we had to hire a mini skip!

are you really going to do this yourself? respect.

Thought I'd have a go - I always enjoy a good bit of digging. How hard can it be? I have done a few smaller landscaping projects in the garden in previous years, plus I have the back-up of a very handy dad who is a good telephone helpline when trouble strikes and backup if things start to go pear-shape.

DH built us one once.

You needt olevel it but with a bit of a slope for run off.

DH used sand with dry cement mixed in. He flattened it out then laid the flagstones on top. Make sure they are level as you go. Fill in gaps with more sand and cement dry mix.

if you've got a patio already, you can recycle it by bashing it up and using it as hardcore
(I think - pretty sure that's what DH did with ours)