Sub-base for porcelain patio?

[Davey]

Hello,

We’re getting quotes to have a new patio laid and SWMBO has chosen 900 x 600 x 20mm thick R11 porcelain slabs.

One of the quotes states excavation to a minimum depth of 170 mm, with a sub-base of 80-100mm compacted hardcore scalping sand and then 50-70mm of concrete.

Does this sound reasonable? It’s for foot traffic only (no vehicles) but we’re on heavy clay soil and I don’t want to risk any movement.

The quote also states the use of EasyPrime and FlowPoint which appear to be suitable products?

Is there anything else we should be aware of and/or ask the installer?

Thank you

Davey

 

[robinbanks]

Does this sound reasonable?

Does to me!

 

[Cheslea2010]

Yes that will be fine. Would insist on 100mm sub base

 

[Davey]

Sorry for the delay in responding but thank you both for your replies.

Can I ask another related question? The quotes we’ve got are around £20,000 inc VAT.

What payment terms should we expect for a job of this size? One contractor is asking for 10% up front whereas another hasn’t mentioned anything.

I assumed contractors would have credit accounts with their suppliers? Is it usual to pay landscapers a deposit before work starts?

Thank you.

 

[Cheslea2010]

Don't pay a penny until the job is done to your satisfaction. Get all quotations in writing and ensure any extras that are discussed are also documented.