laying slabs

[madmondeo]

as a guide how much should i expect to pay a builder to lay 48 slabs? ground is flat and all he needs do is mix the sand/cement and lay them. i make it sound so easy .................. ;-) how long would it take approx to do?

[TonyV]

Mad - there is more to laying slabs than "all he needs do is mix the sand/cement and lay them". A sub base needs to be dug out and prepared to prevent susequent movement - I not trying to make the job any bigger, but there is more to it than just laying them on dirt, if you want it it to last. All depends on what your ground is like.

http://www.pavingexpert.com/layflag1.htm

Is builder supplying all materials - what slabs are you using and what size.

Also try to get quotes from local landscapers

http://www.landscapej...ind-a-landscaper.html

Maybe 1 - 2 days work

[AlBags]

Quite ..
The work is really all in the prep.
Packed hardcore and some MOT or crushed stone.
Level out and lay slabs on spots or sand.
At least a full day.

[TonyV]

Albags - without seeing the site or access - agree you will you never know how long it will take

But I would never recommend laying slabs on 5 dots of cement though

[AlBags]

No .. I never lay on 5!

[TonyV]

Albags - lol but you said "Level out and lay slabs on spots or sand"

I have misunderstood that line - sorry

[landscaper2]

I have been landscaping for many years and never yet come across a job where I just start laying with no prep work, unless there is an existing, clean concrete base to lay the slabs on. Even then final height and falls come into consideration.
With no excavation, you must remember that the finished job will bring your levels up by 150mm(6"), so bear this in mind against your building as the finished job should be 150mm BELOW DPC.

Agree with above, get some quotes and advice reputable from local landscapers.