Lay your own patio
A step-by-step guide
Stone is widely available in a variety of patio sets. It can be interestingly textured and comes in an ornate layout. With such a wide range of colours and sizes, paving can be laid in a variety of patterns. There’s something to suit every budget, so be sure to explore your options to carefully plan a design that you can enjoy for years to come.
1 Once you’ve prepped your area, mix your cement and start from the centre by spreading out an area of cement and laying your first centre slabs.
2 Ensure the slabs are spaced evenly apart and then use a rubber mallet to pat down on the slabs to secure them.
3 You will need an extra long spirit level in order to check that the slabs are lying flat.
4 Once you are happy with the position of the first ring, then you can begin working on the next round.
5 Lay more mortar and place your first slabs with the groove of the previous row roughly in the centre of the slab. If you bought a kit, use the photograph as an indication of how to position your panels. Keep spreading the mortar out with a trowel.
6 Check each position with the spirit level every time you lay a new paving stone. Once you have finished laying all the paving slabs, have a final check whether you’re happy with the layout and the gaps, and that they’re all flat and even.
7 Using the mortar, tuck pointer and your trowel, it’s time to point your slabs. Press the mortar into the gaps in the paving and then smooth off with the blade of the trowel. 8 Leave to dry for around 48 hours and then you can add your furniture and container displays. If you want to, you can fill the surrounding area with gravel.