I want to lay 16x16 tiles as a type of patio in the yard. What do I need to know to do this, ground prep &etc.

Question

I want an area to set my swing separate from my patio, so I decided to lay 16x16 square landscaping tile. I am uncertain how to prosede. I was thinking to rototile the soil and put down the landscaping material so weeds don't come up then put some kind of sand on the top(what kind?) then put the tiles on the sand to be able to level them out, but I am uncertain how to do this, use a level is all I can think of. Just not sure what to do to get everything ready.

Answer 1

you want to dig down about 4 to 6 inches in the shape you want the patio, then put about 3 inches of stone #8 limestone or something similar, then put about 1 inch of sand ,just some concrete sand, on top of the stone and tamp it down to compact and level it, set your patio block and use the leftover sand to fill in the cracks, sweep it in and then wet it down and repete until they are filled

Answer 2

If this will be in a grass area, the first thing I would consider is setting the tile at ground level. This then would permit mowing with out the need of edging.

In doing that, one would have to cut out the grass in the planned area. Be sure to cut out an area large enough, considering the "spacing" between the tiles and allowing the setting of full tiles, thus avoiding any necessary cutting of the tiles.

Once this is done, level the ground, while allowing the proper depth from ground level with allowance for a sand base. Then lay a sheet of Viscuine, plastic sheeting, over the ground, and filling with sand. Always, considering the proper depth to set the tiles at ground level.
Do not butt the tiles flush, as mentioned above, allow spacing. If they are butted, they may shift, causing cracking or chipping against one another.
To finish, fill the "spaces" with sand. Wet it down to settle and refill, if necessary.

You will use a level, but use a 2 X 4, for leveling, just as would be done in leveling concrete.

Good luck

Answer 3

If these are basic ceramic or porcelain tiles, they must be supported from underneath or they'll crack. The best base would be 2-3 inches of crushed limestone (paverbase) with sand on top (1/2 inch). You want total compaction of the base. The least little void is a weak spot.

Answer 4

remove all grass, lower grade to depth of thickness of tile -1 inch.
pack soil. make a screed to level the sand to proper grade. add sand, lay tiles. Good luck