Patio blocks are an instrumental tool for allowing you to create that perfect landscape at your home or office.  They allow you to create a deck or walkway for an out door social area or just something that can create an enjoyable walk through your lawn or garden.  Patio blocks allow you to create your perfect outdoor setting and design it any way you choose.

Types of Patio Blocks:

Before you begin the process of considering a design of your backyard, what material would you like to use?  There are three main types – Concrete patio blocks, brick patio blocks, and stone patio blocks.  All have there different colors, variations, and sizes that can make your back yard, office or garden unique.

Patterns of Patio Blocks:

After you decide on the specific material you want to use  for your property, you need to then begin thinking of a specific design to consider:

The most popular design is the herringbone (zigzag) pattern.  This design is easily modeled to fit and work with various types of landscapes.  You are not limited to this design as with this being your property, you can (and should) get creative.  Other possible patterns: Circle design, basket-weave, among many others.  You can even create your own design using different sizes and shapes of brick, stone, or concrete.    Look online to see what some finished products of all different types of patterns and patio blocks look like.

Installation Process:

After you pick the type of block and pattern you want to use, make sure you shop the price to ensure you are getting the best price for the materials.  Be patient in this process and don’t be too anxious to get started, understand what you are purchasing and make sure it is what you want.  Whether you decide to have a professional install your patio or you want to do it yourself, it is still going to be a process and somewhat costly.

• The first step in installing your block patio is figuring out the location and taking a very accurate measurement of the area.  If you are new to doing home improvements yourself, measure twice.  You will be happy you did to ensure that you have an accurate measurement for purchasing needs and avoid problems once you have already begun laying the block.  It is always good that once you measure the area you are planning on putting the patio, to map the area out with stakes and string.  This will help you to visualize the finish shape of your patio.

• Once the dimensions are measured out and you are ready to dig.  You first need to know how deep down you have to go.  The first step in this process is what the height of the block you are going to use.  Most patio bricks are approximately 2” thick so right there you have to go down two inches.  You cannot put the bricks right on top of the soil, you must create a foundation for the patio blocks to go over.

• When considering the foundation, standards require you to leave approximately 2” for crushed stone (the base foundation) and approximately 2” for the sand.  The reason for the stone on the bottom is to create a solid (more sturdy) base foundation.  Make sure you pound it down, making it as even as possible.  It is smart to use a level to check to ensure you have a smooth surface prior to proceeding with the sand.  The sand is there to allow a smooth (flat) surface for the patio block to go over.  Put approximately 2” of sand evenly on the entire surface.  Use some form of a flat piece of equipment (i.e. level) to ensure once again that your surface is smooth.

• You are now ready to install your patio block.  You want to position yourself in an area where you do not have to disturb the prepared surface so work from the outside in.  Make sure you put the block straight into the sand in order for it to be even and not affect the surface.  Also, make sure you have a good edge (perimeter) and that it is uniform.  Boards work well for this.

• Whether you decide to grout the patio or use sand (sand is much easier and cost effective), it is an iatrical part of your patio.  If you use sand, make sure it is evenly speak over the patio.  Use a push broom to get it into the cracks.  You will have to do this at least twice (if not more).  You should then let it settle for a some time and then hose the deck down to help push the sand deeper into the cracks.

Enjoy your Patio!