If the soil is unstable fa-brick is installed?
Yes.
Reason: If suitable soil is not obtained we will install road grade fa-brick.
How deep is the excavation for the patio?
12 inches below patio grade minimum.
Reason: To enable Kozak to ensure the necessary depth of gravel base.
Is the sub-base (dirt) compacted? If so, what method is used?
Yes, a jumping jack compactor averaging 4500 to 5000 psi.
Reason: The sub-base is compacted to help prevent any settling in the sub-grade such as sink holes that will affect the integrity of the patio. The jumping jack compactor provides a higher compaction ratio when compared to standard plate (vibratory) compactors or hand compaction.
How any inches of gravel are installed? At what increments is it compacted? What method is used to compact?
9 inches of gravel on average; compacted every 4 to 5 inches with a jumping jack compactor.
Reason: The gravel base is the foundation of the patio. Compaction of the gravel in two lifts will enable Kozak to achieve a tighter compacted base. See question number 2 on why we use the jumping jack compactor.
Is there any base reinforcement fabric used in between the layers of compacted gravel?
Yes, Kozak uses road grade fabric after the first lift of gravel.
Reason: To avoid minor isolated sink holes that may occur in the patio caused by sub-grade conditions.
How far is excavation done beyond the edge of the patio?
8 to 12 inches.
Reason: This enables Kozak to assure that the edging is secured into a solid base rather than loose dirt.
What method is used to secure patio from lateral movement?
Plastic snap edge secured by 10” steel spikes.
Reason: Kozak has found that this edging product provides the best support for the patio. The 10” steel spikes are used to ensure that they are driven deep into the compacted gravel base. Steel is used to avoid breakage and unwanted movement.
How many inches of bedding/torpedo sand are used to set brick?
1 inch
Reason: This is Kozak’s standard because it seats the bricks into place. We use the least amount of sand possible because sand doesn’t compact well; excess sand can cause the patio to feel spongy or have a wavy effect
Is brick compacted after setting into bedding sand? If so, what method is used?
Yes, vibratory compaction with urethane pad.
Reason: The vibration causes the sand to rise up to fill the voids between each brick. The urethane pad is used to prevent scuffing or breakage of the brick.
After the joint sand application is the patio compacted again? If so, what method is used?
Yes, vibratory compactor with urethane pad.
Reason: The vibration causes the fine particles of the joint sand to fall into the voids of the bedding/torpedo sand.
Are outside edges of the patio restored to original lawn condition after completion of the patio?
Yes.
Reason: Kozak wants the project to have finished look. We will either sod or re-grade and around the patio area.
Are there any extra precautions taken to minimize lawn damage?
Yes.
Reason: Kozak uses plywood to drive the skid steer on the lawn, maneuvering of the wheel barrels and foot traffic to the job site.
Do you clean up and remove all excess materials from job site?
Yes.
Reason: Kozak maintains a clean and professional job site, the only thing that will be left behind will be your beautiful patio!
Do you offer any brick and joint sand protection products?
A sealer for a patio is optional with all Kozak installations.
Reason: It gives the patio a finished look. It also helps prevent staining, weed germination in joint sand and joint sand washout.