[Tony]

Hello
I have a customer that wants a paver patio using Unilock Holland stones as the borders with Richcliff pavers as the field stones. They also want to divide the patio up using the Holland stones to form a grid work. The existing concrete patio is in good shape. My plan was to either glue or mortar the Holland stones down to the concrete. Using the Holland stones as a guide I was planning on screeding sand in the boxes created by the Holland stones.
My concern is where the concrete meets the house. The existing concrete is poured right up to the under side of the Cedar trim board. My plan was to install flashing and or a self adhering product such as Bitulene to the concrete and then up the Cedar trim followed up with a bead of caulking. Because of the difference in thickness of the pavers using the existing concrete made sense. The existing step done from the patio door is 9.5 inches. Going on top of the concrete would cut the height done to about 6 inches. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Tony Silvester

[AZTLANLC]

Actually around my are steps should no be more than 8" heigh by code.
Just make sure the grading on the existing concrete is appropiate for water to drain away from the house, install some geotextile on top of the concrete up against the holland stone, also leave some spacing for water to drain

[Stonehenge]

Aztlan's right about code for steps - making the step shorter is a good thing. 9.5" is likely not to code.

I think you have a good idea about protecting the cedar siding - here's another thought - in the vein of protecting the cedar by not getting it wet, but also allowing them the possiblity of replacing/removing it at some point without tearing up the pavers, here's an idea:

Since you're mortaring anyway, mortar a soldier course roughly 1/2"-3/4" away from the siding. It should help prevent moisture buildup in that wood. I've never tried this myself, so input from others who have is welcome.

As for screeding sand between the mortared areas - we did the very same thing a couple years ago - search for the thread "Client Wants Mortar, Part 2". It's rather long, but there's some good info there that would be of use to you in this situation.

[Tony]

Thanks for the suggestions! By the way I think is a terrific web site.

Tony Silvester