- 1). Mark off the area where you patio will go using the tape measure, stakes and string. Try to make sure that the ground is as level as possible. This will mean less work later when you have to ensure that your base is level.
- 2). Edge the area around the patio perimeter to a depth of 4 inches, using the spade.
- 3). Remove the sod and dirt to the same depth as your edging.
- 4). Check for levelness of your excavated patio by setting a wooden 2-by-4 inch board down on top of the base. Over this, place a carpenter's level. If your patio is not level, excavate more dirt until the base is level. Repeat over the entire area of the patio base.
- 5). Wet down the excavation with a garden hose. Use a tamping tool to tamp down the soil. You now have a solid base on which to build a patio.
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