How to Build a Patio on a Sloped Lawn

Patios can be constructed on-grade (surface), below-grade or above-grade. When the ground is sloped, retaining walls or steps must be constructed to create a level surface for the patio. Take advantage of varied topography to create outdoor "rooms" at different levels. Drainage issues are an important concern with retaining walls, especially near houses. Construct walls with accommodation for drainage and slope the patio to shed water to a safe place. Hardscaping should be installed by an experienced contractor.

Board, 2 X 4 or 2 X 6, 16 feet or 24 feet long
Carpenter's level, 4 feet
String line (optional)
String level (optional)
Measuring tape
Skid steer loader
Shovels
Waterproofing or damp proofing compound
Concrete or segmental blocks for retaining walls
Pavers or concrete for patios and associated hand tools
Geogrid for pavers (optional)
Sand (optional)
Gravel, crush or road mix quality

Instructions

- 1
  Find the difference in height between the top of the patio and where the grade changes. Choose the reference point for the top of the proposed patio. Place the board lumber from the reference point to the proposed end point of the patio.
- 2
  Place the level on top of the board. Measure from the top of the board to the ground. The result is the difference in height.
- 3
  Plan retaining walls as needed. Calculate retaining wall height by adding the difference in height between the top of the patio and the grade change to the depth of the footing or base below grade.
- 4
  Remove soft soil and organic matter from the site with the skid steer loader, or by hand. Excavate a trench for the walls 5 to 7 inches below the bottom of the footing or the base of the wall. Fill with gravel and compact.
- 5
  Apply waterproofing compound to the house foundation wall where it contacts the patio, following manufacturer's instructions. Install perforated pipe as necessary to the bottom of the fill for the patio.
- 6
  Construct retaining walls, according to specifications for the height of the wall and the construction material. Slope the walls at 1 percent. Install perforated pipe for drainage at the foot of the wall. Backfill wall with gravel to a few inches below the level of proposed patio.
- 7
  Prepare site for the patio pavement. Fill patio area with gravel to desired levels, allowing for 1 percent drainage from the patio and away from the house. Compact in 6 inch lifts, or layers, and leave room for the height of the paving material.
- 8
  Install formwork and reinforcement as required for concrete, or level the sand base for pavers. Place paving flush to the inside edge of the top of the retaining wall. Sweep sand between the paver joints or finish the concrete as desired.

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