How to cover old concrete slab with deck and crazy paving?

Question

Hi,

I've got an old worn concrete slab in the backyard that's seen better days. Some sections are solid and others are crumbling away.

I'm (hopefully) planning on putting a floating deck on the rectangle section with dining table. And then crazy paving the square section and putting a bbq entertainment like area there so both areas will need to hold a bit of weight.

My question is with the state of the current concrete slab is it fine as is and doable with the above? Or is there a way I can touch it up? Or should I demo it and put a brand new concrete slab?

Thanks

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @darcyDIY,

Just checking in to see whether you’ve made any progress on the outdoor area yet. Keen to hear whether you ended up moving forward with the floating deck and crazy paving idea.

Would be great to see a few progress shots if you’ve started, and please feel free to reach out if you need a hand with any part of the build as it comes together.

Mitchell

darcyDIY · Answer

Hi,

Excellent thanks so much for the info, appreciated as always!

Thanks

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @darcyDIY,

Great plans, that sounds like it’ll turn into a really nice outdoor space.

From what you’ve shown, if the slabs are still structurally sound and not showing any major cracking or movement, then surface wear isn’t usually an issue for either a floating deck or crazy paving over the top. In most cases, there’s no need to demo and start again.

For the decked area, you’ll just want to make sure the slab is reasonably level and allows for drainage. Adjustable pedestals or packers can help take up any minor inconsistencies.

For the crazy paving section, as long as the slab is stable, it can act as a solid base. You may just need to clean it up well and possibly use a bonding agent, depending on the method you go with.

These guides are a good starting point for both parts of your project: How to build a low-level deck and How to lay crazy paving.

Let me tag @EleventhCoastal as they have created some stunning crazy paving projects, such as their Crazy paving for outdoor fire pit and Crazy paving front porch  and might have some input about the techniques you could employ.

Keen to see how this one comes together.

Mitchell