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Is it okay to lay patio slabs on hard soil and gravelly sand?
Anonymous user 17/10/2025 - 8:50 AM
We've been told that it's okay to lay patio slabs on our hard soil with grit sand on top and there's no need for a compacted base layer. Apparently, this is a newer method for laying slabs.... But is this actually a thing? I've read online and everything seems to say otherwise. We're totally at a loss since we're not experts on this at all! The work is supposed to be done in 2 to 3 days. We could really use some help as we feel like we're being taken for a ride.
Are you a pro and able to answer this question?
3 Answers
Strategic Homes Group Inc.
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Hi, No, it is not okay to lay patio slabs directly on hard soil and gravelly sand because the base will be unstable. Therefore leading to sunken or uneven slabs over a period of time. A proper base requires excavating the soil, compacting a layer of sub-base material like crushed stone (hardcore or MOT Type 1), and then using a layer of sharp sand or mortar to set the slabs.
Answered16 March 2026
1
Anonymous user
I would recommended using a HPB or limestone for a base and tamped. As this helps to let the water drain through to the soil and also prevents from it moving as much or sagging. As the soil could potentially was away and creates dips or sagging in the patio slabs.
Answered30 September 2025
0
EGC Elevated General contracting
No reviews yet
Must have original soils pulled with a new base of lime stone screenings tamped and levelled before installing slabs.
This is the minimum procedure to be taken before any uneven slabs tilt.
Answered17 October 2025
0