Build Retaining Wall or Barrier
At 0:15 in
I have seen homes where I could put my entire hand through the hole that moisture rotted out.
What happens here
The video explicitly states that "Gotta have a wall... a wall separated so you are containing the base material." This step involves constructing a concrete or masonry barrier to create a physical separation between the patio base material and the house's non-concrete components. This barrier should extend from below the frost line (if applicable in your region) up to the finished height of the patio base, and ideally terminate at least 6-8 inches below the lowest wood element of the house to ensure proper drainage and prevent moisture wicking. For a concrete barrier, dig a trench for a footer, place form boards, and pour concrete. For a masonry block wall, lay blocks on a prepared concrete footing using mortar. Ensure the top surface of the barrier slopes away from the house slightly to encourage water runoff.
Goal: Create a physical, moisture-resistant barrier between the patio base and the house.
Tools and materials
- Cement mixer or mixing tub — Mixing concrete or mortar efficiently
- Concrete mix Quikrete — Creating the concrete barrier or footer
- Form boards — Creating forms for concrete pours
- Level — Ensuring the barrier is plumb and level
- Masonry blocks or bricks — Building a masonry wall barrier
- Mortar mix Quikrete — Joining masonry blocks or bricks
- Rebar — Reinforcing concrete footers or walls
- Safety glasses — Protecting eyes
- Shovel — Digging the trench for the footer
- String line and stakes — Setting alignment for the barrier