Patio base suggestions

[dja4260]

My wife wants a patio from our walkout basement. It would be roughly 20x30, run under an existing porch that's 11'ft of the ground. I also have a septic tank that would be covered by whatever base I choose to use. The lid of the tank is about 1/2''in below grade. I feel that I have a few viable options, decomposed granite, pea gravel, or pavers. I suppose I'd use treated timber to outline the space and fill with rock or pavers, and put down a barrier below the rock or pavers to keep grass and weeds out.

Thoughts on any of these products? Personal experience?

 

[Boomer]

From the slope I see, I would be worried about the gradual movement of loose fill to the bottom of the borf=dered res. I think you shouls level it, out a small retraining wall ate the vase and go form there.

 

[skyactiv]

Pea gravel and decomposed granite will be a nuisance to keep up with.

 

[JTK]

What ever I chose, I'd make sure access to the septic tank lid does not get hindered in any way. It must have a riser on it already if it's that close to the surface?

 

[dja4260]

What ever I chose, I'd make sure access to the septic tank lid does not get hindered in any way. It must have a riser on it already if it's that close to the surface?

Yes, that's correct. It has a riser. I have it pumped about every 4 years....

 

[Pablo]

Proper concrete pad.

 

[BMWTurboDzl]

Proper concrete pad.

Which would probably be a code violation with regards to the placement of the septic tank.

 

[BMWTurboDzl]

My wife wants a patio from our walkout basement. It would be roughly 20x30, run under an existing porch that's 11'ft of the ground. I also have a septic tank that would be covered by whatever base I choose to use. The lid of the tank is about 1/2''in below grade. I feel that I have a few viable options, decomposed granite, pea gravel, or pavers. I suppose I'd use treated timber to outline the space and fill with rock or pavers, and put down a barrier below the rock or pavers to keep grass and weeds out.

Thoughts on any of these products? Personal experience?



View attachment 216530

Typically covering a septic tank is a code violation and you can bet any buyer is going to either want it inspected or remove whatever you placed over it.

 

[Pablo]

Which would probably be a code violation with regards to the placement of the septic tank.

Could be - some are ok as long as lids are exposed of course. For sure extend riser up to slab surface if OK

Yes it would be a risk if tank needs to come up. But not necessarily a violation.

That said a deck would be my second choice as much as I hate wood maintenance or could go composite/polymer decking

 

[CourierDriver]

From the slope I see, I would be worried about the gradual movement of loose fill to the bottom of the borf=dered res. I think you shouls level it, out a small retraining wall ate the vase and go form there.

idk