How to Add New Patio Blocks to an Existing Patio
Expanding an existing surface with new patio blocks is a basic do-it-yourself project you can complete over a weekend using gravel, sand and basic tools. Choose patio blocks that match your existing hardscape for a seamless look, or create a complementary design to create a visual separation of space. Before you break ground, consult your utility company to see if your building plans could interfere with underground wires and pipes. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Wood stakes
- String
- Shovel
- Level
- Hand tamper or plate compactor
- Gravel
- Crushed limestone
- Patio blocks
- Metal edging
- Mason's sand
- Brush
Instructions
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Measure the dimensions and insert wood stakes at the far end of each corner. Stretch a string from each stake to outline the site for the new patio.
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2
Use a shovel to excavate the outlined surface until there is room for an 8-inch deep foundation plus the depth of the patio blocks. Place a level on the soil and keep digging until it is even.
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3
Tamp the surface down with a vibrating metal plate compactor or a hand tamper tool to stabilize the base. If the existing patio has a slight slope for drainage purposes, dig the same grade of slope into the soil.
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4
Fill the site with 3 inches of gravel and tamp the surface. Add another 3 inches of gravel, tamp it down and then use a 2-by-4 to maintain the slope. Typical slopes for patios are 1/8 inch for every foot. Add a 2-inch layer of crushed limestone over the gravel and spread it over the slope with a 2-by-4.
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Set the new patio blocks so they are flush against the existing patio. Place a water level over the old and new blocks and adjust the new blocks until they are even with the old ones, adding more limestone or taking some away as necessary.
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Continue setting the rest of the patio blocks, leaving consistent spaces between each block.
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Insert metal edging against the outer sides of the new surface to prevent them from sliding.
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8
Pour mason's sand over the new patio blocks and pack it into the joints with a brush. The sand will lock the blocks in place and cushion them as they settle over time.
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References
Resources
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