How to install outdoor tiles on sand?

[Minu]

Kia ora guys, 

I'd love some advice on how to tile our outdoor patio space using sand for compacting.  

The space is currently partially tiled using river pebbles, however, we want to re-tile using sand (as this is better for drainage and easier on our feet). We also have a limited budget, so don't want to go down the concrete route. 

Half of the area is a concrete slab (under the existing tiles), the other half is soil. 

Advice on how to compact the soil, and how to navigate adding a layer of sand would be much appreciated! 

Cheers, 

Minu 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Civa91,

A warm welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Hopefully, @Minu will respond shortly with some advice about what tile they used. You can also check out our range of outdoor pavers and tiles.

To measure the gradient, you'll need a tape measure and a way of finding level. The size of the area will likely dictate your approach. If it is a small area, you could simply use a long spirit level or you can use a combination of string lines and a line level over longer distances. There are also laser levels that can work over long distances.

Start by picking a datum point and making a mark, either on a wall or timber stake. This is a fixed point that will not move or change throughout the entirety of your project. In your case, this should be the highest point in the area. From this point, you want to use your levelling tool to mark level points in all four corners of the space.

Once you have level in all four corners, you can measure down from this point in all four corners to mark a desired height that will achieve your desired gradient.

From there, you can use these marks, alongside a straight edge to get your sand substrate perfectly flat following your desired gradient.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob