Mason Mark McCullough helps two homeowners solve their wobbly patio issues. While the steps and materials they chose are correct, Mark notices the grade is off. With the homeowners’ help, the trio remove the existing patio, build up the base layer, and reinstall the pavers to create a flat, smooth patio surface that won’t wobble or rock.
Next, we meet host Kevin O’Connor outside the shop as he talks ladders with carpenter Nathan Gilbert. Nathan brings every ladder he owns, including A-frames, extension ladders, and multi-use models. He even has some accessories to show Kevin how they work. They discuss materials, styles, and more.
Finally, master electrician Heath Eastman takes us on a house call to help a homeowner supercharge her EV charging capabilities. After recognizing that the Level 1 charger that came with the car wasn’t up to the task, Heath runs new wiring to the other side of the garage and installs a Level 2 charger that can speed up the process.
How to Fix an Uneven Paver Patio
Sometimes, despite using the right materials and techniques, a DIY project might not age as well as one would hope. When one couple’s pandemic patio started rocking and wobbling, they called the team at Ask This Old House for help. Mason Mark McCullough knew exactly what the issue was and set to work with the help of the homeowners. The three removed the old patio, raised the base layer, and rebuilt the perfect patio.
Where to find it?
Start by using a pickaxe to pick up the pavers and stack them by size. When reusing pavers, Mark recommends snapping a photo of the patio to use as a pattern reference for later. Using shovels and rakes remove the sand or material under the pavers and set aside on tarps to be tossed or reused. Once the sand is removed add gravel to reestablish the base and compact with a hand tamper or motorized compactor. Hose down the layer of gravel and compact again.
To establish the height of the patio using stakes and landscaping string create a line around the perimeter of the patio. Set the height of the line by measuring the height of the paver. Set two metal railings running parallel on the perimeter edge of the patio base. Then cover the gravel with polymeric sand and compact it. Using a long metal or wood post, screed from one end of the patio to the other, creating a smooth level surface. After relaying the pavers spread a layer of sand to fill the gaps in between the pavers.
Use a broom to evenly distribute the sand.
Understanding Common Types of Ladders
Carpenter Nathan Gilbert knows the importance of sturdy, reliable ladders. He helps host Kevin O’Connor understand the different types of ladders, materials, and accessories that homeowners, DIYers, and pros should know about.
Where to find it?
Nathan demonstrates a variety of ladders and accessories and explains their different purposes.
Nathan talked about 2 main categories of ladders: A-frame and extension ladders.
For material, aluminum is popular because it is lighter and cheaper.
Fiberglass is non-conductive so it is good for electricians.
Some ladder accessories Nathan showed were:
Ladders provided by Werner Ladders.
How to Install an EV Charger
For most EV owners, the basic charger that their car comes with just doesn’t keep up with their needs. In many cases, charging speeds of 5 miles per hour is all they can expect. A homeowner experiencing this issue called master electrician Heath Eastman for help installing a Level 2 charger in her garage.
Where to find it?
Heath upgrades a homeowner’s charging capabilities by installing a level two EV charger. He also sets up an energy monitoring device that will allow for real-time energy tracking and load management.
Original Air Date: Jan 2, 2024, Season 23; Ep. 9 23:42
Products and services from this episode
- Ladder manufacturer: Werner Ladders
- EV Charger manufacturer: Emporia