Work out the slabs or pavers, sub-base, sand and cement needed to lay a patio of any size.
You get the number of paving slabs, the MOT Type 1 sub-base in tonnes, the sharp sand for a bedding layer, and the cement for a bedding mortar. For a full mortar bed, sand and cement are mixed roughly 5:1.
For a domestic patio, 100 mm of compacted MOT Type 1 over firm ground is usually enough. For a patio that takes vehicle loads, increase it to 150 mm.
A full mortar bed is strongly recommended for patios — it supports the whole slab and prevents rocking and cracking. Spot or dab bedding is not suitable for areas that take foot traffic.
Allow about 10% for a rectangular patio, or up to 15% if there are curves, angles or lots of cuts around features.
Typically a compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base, a mortar or sand-and-cement bedding layer, then your slabs. The estimator lists quantities for each.
Aim for a slope of about 1:80 (roughly 12 mm per metre) away from the house so rainwater drains off rather than pooling.
Full material list for a timber shed — floor, framing, cladding, roof sheathing, felt and fixings — from the shed size and roof style.
OpenComplete decking material list — joists, deck boards, posts, fixings and concrete — from the deck dimensions.
OpenFull driveway material list — sub-base, sand and surface (gravel, block paving, concrete or tarmac) for your driveway size.
Open