djh - 2-1-2007 at 06:19 PM
On our Loreto property, we'd like to put in a few patios... I like the idea of pavers, but have not fully decided. I don't really like the idea of
just concrete.
These would be for RV patio type use, (not to park on) so drainage (although there isn't much rain...) and the ability to remove or disassemble
& move for later building plans is desireable.
So... my questions:
1. Do you know of a good source for quality pavers in the Loreto area ?
2. Do you know of a reputable local Loretano with experience in this type of project? (Name and contact info.)
I've watched the process a little bit in other parts... perfectly flat, well packed ground, a top thin layer of very fine (sand?) for installation...
but that's about as much as I know. It would seem a good / secured border / edge would be important....
Your experienced suggestions appreciated.
We're considering installing 3 or 4 improved pads for RV / TTs .... We've had that use of the property prior to our purchase, but we'd like to do
something a bit nicer... and also build a small bathroom / shower facility.... Might do a couple of long term RV / Trailer rentals, (small, private
facility) not for sure on that score yet... a step at a time..
I know some of you have experiences that I could benefit from, if you don't mind sharing a bit. . . You can U2U me if you prefer.
Thanks Nomad Amigos.
David and Shing
djh
vgabndo - 2-1-2007 at 06:55 PM
We built a bunch of 12" x 12" forms an inch and a half thick, and both hired a friend to make a bunch and we have added our own by making a bottom to
the form that left us with decorative pieces based on cave art. I provided the materials, and I think I paid three pesos a piece. That won't happen
now!!
We now have about five varieties like the one below.
djh - 2-2-2007 at 08:22 AM
Nice, Vgabndo!
I am happy to accept your job application ! 
Might be a back-up plan.... I believe it is also possible to color concrete somehow... I have a friend with an amphibian airplane (lake to land)
concrete ramp that is reddish... I believe he added a mineral or chemical after pouring, before drying...
Anyone else do a similar project?
Thx. djh
shari - 2-2-2007 at 08:26 AM
they sell a powder in a box that you add to the cement while you are mixing it for the very top layer and it colors it. What about "laja" rock for a
rock patio like we did here? It's lovely.
Cypress - 2-2-2007 at 09:27 AM
Have done brick patios and walkways.
Easy, but time consuming.
Those 12"X12" squares look neat.
Don Alley - 2-2-2007 at 09:58 AM
We have permanent stone and concrete, and also this brick:
Paula - 2-2-2007 at 11:33 AM
The brick above is laid on ground that was leveled with a shovel and a rake. After the bricks were placed, sand was poured over the surface, and
pushed around with a broom to fill the spaces, with the excess swept away. So the bricks could be relocated easily.
vgabndo - 2-2-2007 at 11:33 AM
Thanks we like the pavers too. Concrete colorants are readily available in La Paz, I don't know about elsewhere. They can be mixed in, a waste I
think, or applied topically.
My technique is to draw the design and cut it out of 1/8" masonite, then glue it down to a 14x14 inch piece of scrap plywood, and using a small sharp
chisel, champher the edges so the form will release without tearing up the impression. Obviously the form should be oiled. WD-40 makes that really
easy.
We used this technique because everything but the forms and cement is free. Everyone in the village knows where to go to dig concrete aggregate out
of the arroyo.
You can nail three corners of the form, and screw the 4th.
Undecorated pavers can be poured directly on flat ground if you wish.
If time allows....
djh - 2-4-2007 at 07:22 PM
.... and if I can't find the traditional red pavers (still in use on some of the roads in Loreto) I may try to make my own as you did.
I wonder where Loreto (municipality) gets theirs....?
djh