When was the last time you enjoyed an afternoon relaxing in the courtyard? If you’re struggling to remember, it’s probably a sign that the area could do with a refresh. This inspiring before and after makeover is filled with inspiring ideas to steal.
WATCH: Charlie and Adam makeover a tiny 70s courtyard
Prior to the courtyard makeover, existing pavers were pulled up and cleaned, ready to be reused. While the existing pavers were still in good condition, over time the ground had shifted, creating an uneven surface that wasn’t much good for entertaining (nobody likes to sit on a wobbly chair or set their cuppa down on a wobbly table).
Lighter pavers were laid to create a more contemporary space that feels bright and welcoming. The original brick pavers were then used to make a border around the edges of the courtyard to create definition and interest.
Gather your supplies
- 225 x 110mm x 50mm recycled brick pavers
- 300 x 300 x 40mm pavers
Road base - Paving sand
Fine washed sand
Mortar mix
Brick saw (hired) - Shovel
- Measuring tape
- Set-out paint
- Plate compactor (hired)
- Rake
- Straightedge
- Spirit level
- Rubber mallet
- Small trowel
- Broom
Here’s how
Step 1
Remove existing pavers, if necessary, and level site, ensuring ground properly prepared for laying pavers. Use shovel to remove turf (if there are no existing pavers) and excavate soil to depth of 150mm. Level.
Use tape measure and set-out paint to mark area. Using rake, spread road base to depth of 80mm. Use compactor to compact down to 70mm.
Step 2
Using rake, spread 30mm of paving sand over site. Before screeding, use paver to establish correct height level against bordering surface. Set up a stringline, if needed, to help keep borders straight.
Step 3
Use straightedge to screed sand down to correct level. Check periodically with spirit level.
Step 4
Beginning in 1 corner, lay header course of brick pavers, leaving 2-3mm gap between each brick.
Use spirit level to ensure they are straight, then tap into position using rubber mallet. Continue laying border pavers along 1 side.
Step 5
Lay larger square pavers, The pattern used here, stackbond, required cutting pavers to fit in certain areas (we hired a brick saw for this purpose).
Step 6
Lay border pavers along other side. Prepare mortar mix and haunch sides using trowel, spreading mix at a 45° angle from edge of paver outwards. Sweep fine sand over surface to fill gaps between pavers.
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