Patio Hardscape Build

Workflow

1. 1

   Excavate Subgrade and Verify Drainage Slope

   1 day

   Remove sod and topsoil, compact subgrade, and establish 1–2% slope away from structures before base material.

   Paver Patio AreaDrainage Pipe Sizing

   Show tips (2)
2. 2

   Calculate and Install Gravel Base Layers

   1 day

   Order crushed gravel and sand by calculated tonnage; screed bedding sand to uniform depth for paver setting.

   Gravel Tonnage CalculatorPaver Patio Area

   Show tips (2)
3. 3

   Set Pavers and Cut Border Pieces

   2 days

   Start from a squared corner or centerline, maintain joint spacing, cut edge pieces with wet saw, and fill joints.

   Paver Patio AreaStepping Stone Spacing

   Show tips (2)
4. 4

   Compact Surface and Verify Slope

   Half day

   Run plate compactor with pad, sweep joint sand, mist activate polymeric sand, and confirm runoff direction.

   Drainage Pipe SizingGravel Tonnage Calculator

   Show tips (2)

Tools Used

• Paver Patio Area
  Primary

  Calculates paver count including cuts and waste for the patio footprint.

• Gravel Tonnage Calculator
  Primary

  Estimates crushed stone tonnage for sub-base and bedding layers.

• Drainage Pipe Sizing
  Supporting

  Sizes perimeter drain pipe if patio traps water against foundation.

• Stepping Stone Spacing
  Reference

  Plans adjacent stepping stone paths connecting patio to yard zones.

Reference Materials

• Dig Once

  Combine trenching for irrigation, drainage, and low-voltage lighting in one pass when possible.

• Right Plant Right Place

  Match plant mature size to spacing calculators — overcrowding creates maintenance debt for years.

• PPE for Hardscape

  Wear eye and ear protection when cutting pavers, blocks, or running plate compactors.

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