Site Preparation and Initial Foundation Excavation
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Navigating pool lines like land mines. #hardscape #outdoorkitchen 
What happens here
The project begins with the removal of a pre-existing patio to make way for the new outdoor kitchen structure. Once the patio pavers or slabs are cleared, the ground is excavated to create the foundation. This involves digging multiple round holes, referred to as 'sono tube' holes, which are deep, cylindrical excavations intended to hold concrete piers that will support the outdoor kitchen's vertical load. Additionally, preliminary trenches are dug for various utility lines that will serve the outdoor kitchen, such as water, electrical, and gas.
Goal: Clear the site and excavate for the outdoor kitchen's foundation and preliminary utility paths.
Tools and materials
- Pry Bar — Assisting with the removal of existing patio pavers or slabs
- Shovels — Initial excavation and ground clearing
- Sono Tubes — Creating cylindrical concrete forms for vertical load-bearing footings
- Wheelbarrow — Transporting excavated soil and debris