Projects on Patio Blocks

Patio Projects

• Paving stone patios give you more design options than a standard concrete slab patio. Choose pavers in different colors to create a mosaic design on the finished surface, or lay a single color of patio blocks in a pattern to create visual interest. Paver patios are a suitable weekend project you can do yourself. The patio requires a gravel and sand bedding beneath the pavers to keep them level and prevent shifting. Sand fills the cracks between the stones so there is no mortaring necessary.

Garden Paths

• Patio blocks work well for both formal and informal garden paths and walkways. Lay a solid path using the same methods as for installing a paver patio. Use paver blocks as stepping stones through garden beds or in low-lying areas where irrigation or rain water collects. Mosses and ground covers fill in between the paving stones, softening the stone's appearance so they blend into its natural surrounding. Some styles of patio blocks are also suitable for creating low steps and stairs in a terraced garden.

Raised Beds

• Raised garden beds provide a focal point when used for flower beds and borders, and a dedicated growing space when installed for vegetable plants. Making the raised sides of the beds from patio blocks gives the beds a finished, permanent appearance. Stack the blocks around the perimeter of the bed two to four layers deep, depending on the height of the blocks. Mortar isn't usually necessary because of the low sides. Fill in the bed with quality soil and plant your flowers or vegetables. You can also use a single layer of blocks to form a border around a non-raised bed.

Fences and Walls

• Low block walls break up and add interest to the landscape. Create a low wall by leveling the ground and laying the blocks two or three layers deep. Patio blocks also work for taller fences, but may require mortaring to remain secure. Some patio blocks are made specifically for wall building. These are designed to interlock to form a more secure structure. The blocks provide a natural looking, but durable choice for constructing retaining walls to hold landscape terraces in place.