[livingwaters]

Hey guys,
Just wanted to get some help with setting grade on a muti-pitch paver patio. I've seen guys running string lines all over, but I just get tangled up in them. Is there another way?
If there is already a post on this, could you point me there.
Thanks

[neversatisfiedj]

I use either rebar or spikes and string lines, this year I will try www.accuscreed.com

[Stonehenge]

You can plan it on paper, then use a laser to set your pipe/screed rails.

[Fine Edge]

We use a combo of laser and strings, depending on the project. I just know if my laser ever broke, I would cry like a little baby.

[scl]

I echo Jeff, get a pencil and paper out and set your dimensions. A little paint helps a bunch. I bought an Accuscreed last year, and on larger projects and straight retaining wals it is worth its weight in gold.

Scott

[livingwaters]

Let me clarify,
I Use my transit/ level (which I assume is the same as a lazer) to set my base grade on numerous stakes ste in the sub-grade, then run my string lines and screed my base to them( which seems hard sometimes because the either get buried in the base or caught up on my rake or screed board) then I use a 1 inch rigid pipe to screed sand. Maybe this is the right way and I'm just need to get used to it?

[jamesn162]

I use string lines, i have become really great with this method because my father owns a second generation concrete business. I set my string line with a transit.

[wogozaly]

depending on the situation, I will set up concrete forms if possible and screed off of them with some aluminum rails. It doesn't take that long and I use a laser level to set my pitch. Once I set up I just start bringing in my base material and compacting it in lifts. As I get closer to final grade I will double check my rails and to fill in any minor areas( small depressions less then 1/4") I will use the same base material but I will remove the larger 3/4" stone and it makes getting the base material completely level much easier. I have found that on walkways and smaller patios that when I am finished and I go back and check to make sure that everything is as it should be, I have a perfrectly flat surface ready for pavers. I don't have any defects in any direction and with proper compaction, proper depth, and all else that goes with the work. I couldn't ask for a better surface and I find that the string lines require a little more tweeking at the end to get good results. It also makes it easier for someone else to level the base material after you verify the correct dimensions and height.

Walter

[neversatisfiedj]

This year I'm going to screed my base aggregate in. I have just been raking it in to string lines in 2" lifts, but this is slow sometimes. I want to get magnesium screed rails, Anyone know where to get some cheap ?

[wogozaly]

I didn't look into the magnesium rails but depending on cost, aluminum is good option. I remember that the rails came in 24 ft lengths and they would cut it to the size that was needed. This was last year so I don't remember the price but I am guessing around $175.00 dollars and that is how I ended up with 6, 8, and 10 ft pieces. 6+8+10=24 The are the exact size of a 2x4 and hollow in the center. They are true straight unless I bend them and they hold up well. I am sure at some point I will need new ones but they have held up well this year and I would guess that even with really heavy use they would last at least a couple of years.

I ended up going to a plant that deals specifically with steel and other metal products.

On the concrete forms, I went with a flexible plastic so that I can do curves and it has worked out, not everything is a straight line. I have also seen them used for retaining walls, setting the base material and I can see where the flexible forms are an advantage.

Walter

[Adam Buckpitt]

We bought an Agetech dual grade laser last year and have not had to put a stake in the ground since we learned to use it. We just rake in our bottom lifts, checking it with the laser and then use the laser to set our screed rails for the top of the base. The only time we set stakes is if there are 3 or more grade changes. The laser is expensive but it is extremely accurate and saves a ton of time in setting up stakes, we just find the grade % in the beggining and the laser does the rest for us. It is worth looking into!!!