How to Place Slabs and Pavers in Gardens and Outdoors

Placing flagstones and pavers in gardens and outdoors is an excellent way to beautify and functionalize these spaces. There are three main methods to carry out this task: on a bed of sand, on a bed of mortar, and on supports. Below are the steps and recommendations for each of these methods.

1. Placing garden slabs on a sand bed

This method is recommended when the base is flexible, providing a stable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Steps:

1. Prepare the sand bed: The thickness of the sand bed should be constant, ranging between 2.5 cm and 5 cm.
2. Level the bed: The bed must be leveled until it reaches the level of the finished pavement minus the thickness of the slab.
3. Laying the slabs: It is important to avoid stepping on the sand bed during laying. Check the alignment of the joints every 4 or 5 meters.
4. Leave joints open: The joints must be left open about 2 mm to be able to fill them later with fine sand.
5. Consolidate the slabs: Use a rubber mallet to press and consolidate the slabs in place.
6. Fill the joints: Fill the joints with fine sand, avoiding the use of mortar.

2. Placement on Mortar Bed

This method is ideal when the base is rigid, such as concrete surfaces, providing greater durability and strength.

Steps:

1. Prepare the rigid base: Place a concrete base with a thickness determined by the project, generally between 3 cm and 5 cm.
2. Prepare the mortar: The mortar must have a minimum resistance of 125 kg/cm², with a dosage of at least 250 kg of 32.5 Portland cement.
3. Knead the mortar: Obtain a soft consistency, with a cone seat between 8 and 10 cm.
4. Apply the mortar: Place the necessary material for each course of slabs as they are placed.
5. Place the slabs: Press the slabs with a rubber mallet to ensure a homogeneous fit.
6. Maintain 2 mm joints: Ensure that the slabs are approximately 2 mm apart and check the alignment of the joints every 4 or 5 meters.
7. Restrict access: Prevent personnel access during the first 24 hours and avoid vehicle traffic for 21 days.
8. Fill the joints: After 24 hours, fill the joints with fine sand by successive sweeps.

3. Placement on Supports

This method is used when it is necessary to cover the roofs of underground parking lots or other low-level spaces, and when the base has a slope to evacuate rainwater.

Steps:

1. Place the supports: The supports must be regular in height to ensure the flatness of the finished pavement.
2. Adjust the slope: Based on the slope of the base, adjust the height of the supports to achieve correct drainage of rainwater.
3. Place the slabs: Place the slabs on the supports, ensuring their stability and correct alignment.

Conclusion

The correct placement of slabs and pavers in gardens and outdoors can transform these spaces, improving both their aesthetics and functionality. By following these detailed methods and steps, a professional and long-lasting finish can be achieved. If you have any further questions or need specific advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.