How to Lay a Patio

Tools and Materials List

You now have all information you need on how to lay a wonderful, long-lasting patio.

If you don't already have this, find out how you can download the Video Tutorial and Supplementary Notes.

Now let's take a look at the list of all the tools and materials that you will need to build your patio.

Several options may be listed. Choose any within your budget. You may be able to borrow or hire at least some of the tools if you don't already have them.

I have used a link to several online suppliers, so that you can see what the tools and materials look like. Often, buying online is a cheaper way to get what you need, is sometimes more convenient, and, generally, there is more choice, but you could take a look and then buy from a local DIY store or builder's merchant.

When you lay your patio, there are different tools that you can use for the same job. What you choose to use may depend on your level of experience, strength and budget. The different choices are clearly listed.

Always take great care when using power tools.  Wear good footwear and eye protection, and make sure you use a circuit breaker at the plug end.  This will prevent electrocution if a cable is cut.  Switch off and store power tools - or any tools for that matter - safely, keeping children and pets well away from the site.  Concentrate, taking regular breaks.

Tools:

Just click here, and enter the item name in the search box.

• Tape measure
• Pencil or chalk
• Cement mixer (*) or wheelbarrow and shovel
• Hydraulic breaker (*) or SDS demolition hammer (sometimes called a 'Kango') (*) and a crowbar (for breaking concrete on smaller areas)
• Stihl saw (*) or 9" angle grinder (*) (stone cutting or diamond blade)
• Spirit level (long - min 90cm)
• Rubber Mallet
• Builder's trowel/pointing trowel
• Stainless steel float
• Brick jointer
• Waterproof gloves
• Wheelbarrow
• Shovel
• Nylon builder's line
• Line pins - metal or wooden pegs to secure string line

Optional:

• Extension reel
• RCD safety plug (circuit breaker)
• Line marker paint aerosol
• Metal file (to chamfer ends if you are laying drainage pipes)

(*) These tools can be hired

Materials:

These may be obtained from various suppliers. Hardcore, sand and cement are best sourced from a local builder's merchant.

• Paving slabs (fantastic price and service)
• MOT Type 1 hardcore (inch to dust)
• Sand (sharp)
• Cement
• Water
• Sharp sand and cement for pointing or a ready-mix jointing compound: Pave Fix/Geofix

Optional:

• Plastic underground drainage pipe and fittings
• Silicone lubricant spray
• Block Paving Recessed Manhole Covers (as seen on the Video Tutorial): 

Block paving recessed manhole cover pavior tray 600mm x 450mm (standard manhole cover size)

Block paving recessed manhole cover pavior tray 450mm x 450mm (square to round)

Now that you have everything you need, let's get that patio started!

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