how can I build a patio 20' by 30' with out removing any of the current dirt?

Question

I want to build a patio thats 20' by 30', but I want to avoid having to remove 4" to 6" of dirt. Would building a frame to hold the sand work? I'm considering using cement to build the frame.

I want to build a patio that is 20' by 30', but I want to avoid having to remove any dirt. I was thinking of building a frame of cement to hold the sand, so instead of the patio being at the same level of theground it would be about 4" heigh. I don't know if this would work.

Answer 1

you must remove at a minimum, the vegetation (grass and root system), if not the patio will continually settle, and or move. A concrete curb or border works very well with paver or cobble stone type patios. Shop around, and you will find that you can purchase pre-cast concrete borders for this type of patio. They are offered in varying colors to match or complement the paver colors. They are more cost effective than forming and pouring in place. Below the pavers you should use 'pea' rock (class 43) or a stone base. The sand you speak of should be used next as just a leveling course.

If you intend a concrete patio, then strip the sod and root system, form your perimeter, grade your sand fill gravel, place #4 re-bar at 2' centers both directions, and pour and finish your concrete. Good Luck!

Answer 2

With no offense meant at all; I answer a lot of questions that ask "Can I?" My standard answer is "Yes; but will you be satisfied with the result."

In your case the answer is a bit different and certainly respectful.

First of all it HAS TO BE FRAMED. BUT in that framing you'll hopefully decide that LEVELING the possible GRADE is valid. The grass will die BTW. Obviosu too is that you can begin with a substantial weed barrier; and to, in that size; if no structure will ever be built on it; you probably don't need "footers" but I'd certainly do the pour at 6 inches minimum; with crossed RE_BAR appropriate to code, and suspended so it actually in IN THE POUR, not just ON the ground. You might also want to know about Frost issues.

There is no strict law I know of,,,or reason to add a sand base. I guess my Q to you would be why do you think you need one?

Cement to build the "Frame" ??? As in a concrete CURB type structure, similar to street/sidwalk curbs? WHY?

AH...Wait??? Is this to be a patio of PAVERS set on a sand base? or Poured concrete? I'd advise pouring the entire 600 sq. ft. Sometimes I have to go back and re-read someones Q.

Steven Wolf
AKA "The Deck Doc"

Answer 3

If you're making a raised patio, there are already many good answers: frame it, put down weed barrier for pavers, sand and pavers. If concrete, you'll want to frame and rebar it.

If you're using pavers, I'd highly recommend that you dig out the area, put down a weed barrier followed by compacted gravel, sand and then the pavers. You're patio will last much longer that way. Otherwise, you'll be pulling up pavers and releveling for as long as you live there.

Answer 4

It wouldn't be very smart NOT to remove the topsoil !!

YES, you CAN build up a frame to hold the sand/gravel you use... But now your patio will be elevated. You COULD mitigate how much soil you have to remove if you rent a soil-compactor... a gas-powered pogo-stick on steroids.

Is this going to be a brick / pavers or poured slab patio ?

I've ALWAYS scrapped away a minimum of 4" of the topsoil on the projects I've worked on.

GOOD LUCK.

Answer 5

If you dont mind it being higher than ground level its fine. Just wack the grass if any,build your form level, check the depth after your done you should be at least four inches deep.Have some one help, stretch a tape across the form and measure down with another tape to check the depth. At a minimum use rewire reinforcement if your going to build on it use re rod.

Answer 6

Is it going to be on the Built ground or A type of deck?