Question
I would like to install a saltillo tile outdoor patio. I live in southern CA so temp is not a problem. The area (approx 20'x15') in question is dirt. I'm a little confused on how to prepare the area. Is it ok to use rock/sand or do I need to put in a bed of concrete first? I'm planning on getting the tiles from Home Depot. Thanks for your help.

Answer
First, here in GA the temperature is a serious problem because it does freeze here and it rains a lot and water getting under your tiles and freezing is a serious concern.
Where it doesn't matter is places like southern Florida. There frost is not a concern.

However, if these are really "tiles" (less than an 1" thick) then you typically want to first pour 4" of concrete and then mortar set them and grout the joints just like indoor tile. If they are "pavers" (more than 1" thick) then you may set them on a bed of 3" of crushed granite (leveled and compacted) plus 1" sand setting bed (screeded and leveled).


Best of Luck
Sean J Murphy, LA,ISA, LEED AP
Please check out my blogs and articles on landscape topics like this on my websites.
http://www.seanjmurphy.com
http://amenityarchitects.com