[ilyaz]

We want to make our existing concrete patio bigger. However, we're also thinking that in another couple of years we might want to big addition which would include removing the existing slab altogether. So we're not looking to put a larger concrete slab in. At the same time, since the "couple of years" might stretch to 3 or 4 or 5 and further, we're looking for a solid way of adding to the existing slab so that what we end up with does not fall apart I a year or two.

As you can see from the photos, the patio has two large trees (+ some PITA bamboo) on one side and slopes down on the other sides. Ideally, we would probably want to expand the patio as close to the trees as possible and then add another couple of feet on the other two sides.

What sort of solution would recommend for this? How close to the trees do you think we might get? Thanks!

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,... Yer already too close to the trees,...

Blacktop might be an option for the rest of it....

 

[hammerlane]

If expanding the patio as close to the trees as possible and then adding another couple of feet on the other two sides fits your needs then that sounds like a solution.

 

[joecaption]

At some point those trees are going to have to go. There going to start lifting and cracking the slab.
Just put down some landscape blocks for now.

 

[ilyaz]

At some point those trees are going to have to go. There going to start lifting and cracking the slab.
Just put down some landscape blocks for now.

We've lived in this house for 10+ years and the patio (and the trees) are definitely older than that. We haven't seen any issues yet. Is it really that certain that sooner or later we will have problems? Would this depend, say, on the type of tree and/or its age?

Also, if I go with landscape blocks, how would I make sure they stay in place and not start to eventually slide downhill?

Thx

 

[joecaption]

If you want it all level your going to dig out and build a retaining wall, back fill, level compact and lay the blocks.

 

[concretemasonry]

If it was me and I thought of adding an addition in 3 to 5 years, I would immediately get rid of the problem trees and bamboo and plant something more suitable for the new addition or a larger patio. - Keep in mind that trees always grow (and the roots) when you select a the replacements and locate them so they will not interfere if and when you build as they grow and mature.

Dick

 

[Tscarborough]

And the longer you wait....


To do any meaningful expansion of that patio, you are going to have to live with a stepdown or a circle of retaining wall blocks outside the expanded patio.