I have a patio that is half cement and half open space. I want to put cement blocks/slabs in the open space. I've had mulch and rock; however, I am tired of that look. I was told I could not cement the open space because it will crack in the future so I am wondering if I can put sand under cement slabs/blocks in the open space. Someone suggested I put white rock, but I want a flat surface so that my niece and play back there. Any suggestions, please?
You are going have to put some form of bedding like crushed stone under the sand first sand itself won't do the job as for cement that won't do either using concrete is the preferred method again laying on a bedding of crushed stone you don't specify the area you want to cover over so all I can say is you will need to excavate the area firstly to a depth of 6 inches minimum that will allow for 2 inches of crushed stone a weed blocker/plastic sheeting 2 inches of sand and cement dry mix and using a slab 2 inches deep to rest on there.Also a slight slope will need to be made to allow surface water run away from house and not be allowed flow back towards your patio.If you decide to use concrete again cut out 6 inches of ground and 3 inches of crushed stone weed blocker and a concrete slab when pouring concrete try to keep it semi dry,too much water is not good as when concrete drys it shrinks and can cause cracking later,I don't think you would have to re-inforce it as you won't be using the car on there ok.
