How to Use Outdoor Slate Tile for a Patio

Slate is an excellent choice for a patio. It not only blends well with about any decorating scheme, but it is also very durable. Installation of a slate patio involves a bit of preparation on the site as slate is one of the heaviest of all tile materials. However, once completed with proper maintenance the patio lasts for years.

Supplies:

• Bobcat


• Chalk line


• 2 x 4 stud


• 2 x 8 boards


• 3/4-inch gravel


• Masonry sand


• Slate tile


• Tamping tool


• Shovel
  
  

Instructions:

1. Use a chalk line to outline the area of your proposed patio.


2. Rent a Bobcat and dig out the patio's foundation. It should be approximately 8 inches deep. Slope the base a 1/2 inch for every foot away from the house to provide proper drainage grade away from the foundation.


3. Install a line of 2 x 8 inch boards around the perimeter inside the newly dug foundation.


4. Fill with 1/2-inch gravel four 4 deep over the entire surface. Use a tamping tool to pack the gravel together. Add an additional 2 inches of gravel over the surface and tamp again until the gravel is in a tight base.


5. Fill the remaining area with sand.


6. Have a friend or helper to assist with this step, as it requires two people when done correctly. Use a 2 x 4 to level the surface by dragging it across it in a sawing motion.


7. Lay out your slate design into the newly leveled sand. Be very careful when handling the tiles as slate is very brittle and can break very easily.


8. Sweep masonry sand over the slate when the entire patio is in place. Pack it evenly between each one of the slate pieces until the joints are level with the slate. The patio is now complete.