- 1). Decide on the shape and size of the patio, and then clear away any rocks and debris from the area. Lay the boundaries for the patio by placing garden hoses around the area, since they can easily be adjusted. Drive stakes into the soil around the borders of the patio area and attach a string to them to outline the area.
- 2). Remove a three-inch layer of soil from inside the entire boundary area with a shovel. Use a straightedge to ensure the area is completely level, and then create a slope to allow water to run away from your home. To create the slope, use the shovel to evenly remove 1/8 inch of soil per foot, starting at house and working downward.
- 3). Make sure the slope is level by using the straightedge, and then use a tamper to firmly compress the soil. Lay down two polyvinyl chloride pipes three to four feet apart to serve as screed rails. Fill the area with course leveling sand, pouring the sand around the pipes.
- 4). Position the outer concrete paver stones over the sand so that they form a 90-degree angle, using an angle tool. Place the whole stones inside the patio area, and use a diamond blade on a circular saw to cut stones to fit into odd spaces.
- 5). Toss leveling sand over the stones once the stones are in place, and then use a broom to sweep the sand into the cracks between the stones. Spray a fine mist of water over the sand to settle the sane, then allow the sand dry.
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