Getting ready to sort out the patio. I have read the paving expert site (several times over the years !). The slabs will are decent moulded ones, 45mm thick in various sizes. Part of the patio will be bordered by a wall. The issue is how to edge the other parts, (A) where the patio meets the lawn (laid horizontal) and (B) where the patio borders next door (laid to a fall).
Regarding style, what I don't like is the "line of concrete" style edging slabs on edge that would look awful between the patio and the lawn.
Edge A will be on the same level as the lawn and adjoining path.
Edge B is up to 4" higher than next door so it needs some way of constraining the slabs.
For ease, I'll probably do both edges the same way. I have dug the whole area down 6" for 3" of MOT and 3" for bedding and slab, so I need something to constrain the MOT and lean mix cement/sand bedding at the edges - the lawn part will be back-filled later.
My options are:
- A (very) low brick wall with the slabs laid over the top of this wall and mortared down with stronger mortar to the wall.
- A brick wall - maybe cobble style bricks - to be laid level with the patio and remain visible, with the patio laid inside.
With option (1), I wondered whether differential settlement between the different types of bedding could result in the slabs cracking at the wall. I suppose this is unlikely with just foot traffic, but large planters could be an issue. But I think a borderless patio might look good.
For edge A, laid to a fall, I have to decide whether to lay the foundation to a fall, or horizontal and pack out the bottom row - not sure what is usually done in this situation.
Can anyone offer any useful advise before I get cracking ?
Simon.