The type of gravel you use underneath flagstone is dependent on various factors, such as the type of base you have and the condition of the ground. Generally, the most commonly used materials are ¾ inch crushed gravel or limestone screenings.
If you are installing flagstone on top of an existing hard surface, such as cement or asphalt, then ¾ inch pea gravel can also be used.
When positioning the stones, a minimum 2 inch layer of gravel should be applied beneath the stone, but you’ll want to make sure you have at least 6 inches on top of the solid base to allow for drainage.
You’ll also want to make sure the gravel is spread out and is level or slightly pitched in the direction of the drain or away from the house.
After the base is set and level, the flagstones can be laid. You’ll want to tap them into the gravel base gently with a rubber mallet so they are secured and are stable. You’ll also want to use a jointing material, such as sand, between the flagstone, to fill the spaces between them to avoid shifting or sinking.
If you are installing flagstone on an unpaved surface, you’ll need to hold the stones in place with something, such as a sand/gravel mix. This gives the flagstone support and ensures it will stay in place.
Overall, the type of gravel used under flagstone will depend on the type of surface you are putting it on and the condition of the ground. Commonly used materials are ¾ inch crushed gravel or limestone screenings, with a minimum 2 inch layer beneath the stones, and a 6 inch layer on top of a solid base.
You will also want to ensure the gravel is spread out and is level, use a jointing material between the stones, and possibly use a sand/gravel mix to hold the stones in place on an unpaved surface.
How do you keep pea gravel in place between flagstone?
To keep pea gravel in place between flagstone, you need to create a stable foundation. This is best done by first laying landscape fabric on the ground where you’re installing the flagstone and gravel.
Make sure the fabric is cut to fit each corner and edge, as well as overlapping each section by 6 inches. Next, spread a layer of crushed rock or a ½-inch layer of sand onto the fabric. This provides some cushioning for the flagstone and will help the pieces stay in place.
Then, lay the flagstone pieces in their desired position and tamp the stones down with a rubber hammer. Finally, spread the pea gravel over the flagstone in a thin layer and tamp it down into the spaces between the pieces of flagstone.
This helps to further secure the flagstone in place and will keep the pea gravel from moving around.
What should I put under flagstone?
When installing flagstone, there are three main components that you will need to consider: the base, the setting bed, and the flagstone itself.
The base is the first priority when installing flagstone and should be prepared correctly for the best results. The base should be a minimum of 4” of crushed limestone, which should be compacted and sloped away from your foundation to shed water.
The setting bed is the second layer that is added to the base. This should consist of masonry sand, leveling sand, or course gravel depending on the flagstone chosen. The setting bed should be between 2-3” thick and level.
This layer is necessary to help absorb and disperse water and keep the flagstone from shifting.
Finally, the flagstone can be added. Flagstone should be measured and cut as necessary to make sure that the flagstone fits within the area you intend to make. Additionally, laying the stones out before installing them can help make sure that the pattern is pleasing.
When you have your materials ready, use a mallet to carefully place each paving stone in the desired pattern. The flagstones may need slight adjustments to ensure stability and to make sure that the pattern looks good.
After the flagstone is installed, apply a generous layer of masonry sand over the entire space and sweep it into the joints between the stone. This will help further stabilize the flagstone and give it the perfect finished look.
Can you put flagstone over gravel?
Yes, you can put flagstone over gravel. This is a common landscaping technique for creating a patio, walkway, or other outdoor living space, and can be a very attractive, low maintenance, and cost-effective option.
To achieve the best results, it is recommended that you take the proper steps. First, you should make sure to install the gravel base properly and then pack it down as much as possible. From there, you can spread a thin layer of sand over the gravel to create a stable, even surface.
Then, you can lay the flagstone, beginning at one corner and going out in straight lines. Be sure to use a level to check that each stone is even and to add additional sand and gravel to fill in any low spots.
To finish, you can cover the seams between stones with sand and polymeric jointing material for a more secure and aesthetically pleasing look.
How do you prepare the ground for flagstone?
Preparing the ground for flagstones is a multi-step process that starts with the removal of weeds, grass, dirt, and debris from the intended site. Then the soil should be dug several inches and leveled to create a flat surface for the flagstone to be placed on.
Gravel should be spread in a layer underneath the flagstone, with 3-4 inches of gravel recommended for walkways and 6-8 inches of gravel recommended for patios. The gravel should also be leveled and then tamped down to create a secure base.
Once the gravel is in place, a layer of sand should be added as a finer base. About an inch of sand is recommended for walkways and two inches is recommended for patios, and both should be level and tamped down.
Then the flagstone can be placed on top of the sand and arranged in whatever pattern you prefer. Finally, the joints between the pieces of flagstone should be filled with sand and any extra sand is swept away with a broom.
This last step can be repeated as needed if any of the joints need extra filler.
Can I put pavers on top of gravel?
Yes, you can put pavers on top of gravel. Before doing so, you’ll need to make sure the underlying gravel is evenly leveled and compacted. If it isn’t, then your pavers won’t lay properly, resulting in an uneven surface that won’t look very good.
It’s especially important to properly lay the gravel down first before adding the pavers, as the pavers won’t be able to compress the gravel any further.
You’ll also want to make sure the gravel has good drainage. If the gravel is too wet or too dry, it won’t be able to support the pavers and they may eventually sink or shift. Ideally, you’ll want the gravel to be slightly damp before placing it, which will help promote good compaction.
Once you have the gravel ready, then you can proceed with installing the pavers. Lay out a base layer of sharp sand, making sure it is level, then lay down your pavers. Press down each one firmly, then use a rubber mallet or a hand tamper to push them together and level them off.
Make sure you don’t skip any steps in this process, as it’s the key to ensuring the pavers stay in place and provide a stable surface.
How do you lay flagstone on uneven ground?
Laying flagstone on uneven ground can be a bit tricky, but with a bit of planning and effort it is possible. The first step is to prepare the ground. Clear the area and remove any obstructions, such as stones, tree roots, or other debris.
Then use a shovel to level the ground as much as possible. Once the ground is leveled, use a rake to spread a 4-inch layer of sand over the area.
You can now begin setting the flagstone. Start with the largest and most uniform stones you have and lay them on the sand. Try to use the existing topography and sloped areas for your design. Make sure that the stones are level as you lay them, and you may need to add extra sand where needed.
If the stones are not level, you can use stone dust and a rubber mallet to adjust them.
To create stronger joints between the stones, you can use a mixture of concrete, mortar, or polymeric sand. This will also help you fill in any gaps. Depending on the design you have in mind, you may need to cut the stones to fit.
To do this, you can use a wet saw or a chisel and hammer. Once all of the stones are laid, use a stiff brush to sweep sand over the top of them.
Finally, you may want to add a layer of landscape fabric over the stones to prevent weeds from growing up between them. Once this is done, your flagstone installation is complete. With patience and attention to detail, you can create an attractive and lasting flagstone installation on uneven ground.
How much space do you need between flagstone?
The space between flagstones will depend on the size and shape of the flagstones, as well as the desired look. Generally, you will want to leave between 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch of space between stones. For larger flagstones, you may want to increase this range up to 1 inch and for thin tiles, it should be reduced to 1/8 inch.
If you are using irregularly shaped and sized flagstones, you may need larger gaps between the stones to ensure stability. When using sand for the joints, you will want to ensure that you use a fine one rather than a coarse or medium sand.
This will prevent the sand from shifting and possibly causing movement between the stones. When filling the gaps, be sure not to compact the sand too hard and make sure the area is properly sealed before installing the stones.
Moisture should not be allowed to accumulate in the gaps, as this could cause the sand to settle unevenly which would result in an uneven surface.
What kind of mortar do you use for flagstone?
For installing flagstone, the most commonly used type of mortar is a type N or type S masonry mortar. Type N mortar, which is stronger than Type S, is best for most natural stone installations, while Type S mortar is made with less Portland cement and is better suited for soft stones, such as limestone or sandstone.
In addition, a modified mortar should be used when installing flagstone in a wet or humid climate, since it is more flexible and less likely to absorb moisture.
When pre-mix mortar isn’t available, you can make your own by combining a three-to-one ratio of sand and Portland cement, as well as some masonry additives and water. Mortar made with lime is also a more traditional choice and can be used in combination with Portland cement.
If a property is very damp, such as around a pool or in coastal areas, epoxy grout or polymeric sand can be used instead of mortar for greater flexibility and water resistance.
How do you build a flagstone gravel patio?
Building a flagstone gravel patio is a great way to create an area where you can relax in the backyard. To get started, you will need to plan the size and shape of your patio and determine the best location for it.
Once you have a plan in place, you may need to have the area excavated by a professional.
Next, you will need to prepare the ground by adding a layer of gravel or sand over the excavated area. This will help to provide a stable foundation for the flagstones. Once the surface has been prepared, you can start to lay down the flagstones.
Be sure to overlap them if you are using smaller stones, and use a level to make sure they are even. If needed, you can use polymeric sand to secure the flagstones in place.
Finally, cover the flagstone patio with a layer of gravel or pea gravel. This will help to keep the stones secure and provide drainage. If necessary, you can also use edging material such as bricks or stones to keep the gravel in place.
Once you have completed these steps, your flagstone gravel patio will be ready to use.
Do you need a base layer for pea gravel patio?
Yes, it is important to have a base layer in place when installing a pea gravel patio. This is because it provides a stable, level surface to support the gravel, preventing it from shifting, sinking, or becoming uneven in the future.
A base layer should be installed before the gravel is added, but it is also important to make sure the layer is thick enough. The standard recommendation is to use 4-6 inches of gravel, crushed rock, or sand as the base layer for the patio.
Depending on the specific project, it may be necessary to use more or less base material to provide the necessary support. For best results, the crushed stone should be leveled with a plate compactor or similar piece of equipment to ensure a sturdy patio.
What is the base for flagstone?
Flagstone is a type of sedimentary rock, usually composed of quartz, sandstone, and limestone, that is cut into flat, rectangular shapes. The base of flagstone is usually limestone and other sedimentary rocks that have been broken down over time and are pressed together.
The sedimentary rock is formed when sediments and organic matter are deposited in calm and shallow bodies of water. These rock layers are then pressed and consolidated over millions of years, and then exposed by erosion.
Flagstone is quarried from these rocks and then cut into flat pieces for use in outdoor paving. Flagstone is strong, durable, and requires minimal maintenance making it a popular choice for outdoor paving solutions such as patios, porches, pathways, and walkways.
Can you lay slabs straight onto soil?
No, it is not recommended to lay slabs directly onto soil. This is due to the fact that soil is not a stable surface and can easily shift, expand, or contract under any load or weight. So while laying slabs directly onto soil may seem like a straightforward task, it can be dangerous as slabs laid on an unstable surface tend to shift or sink.
The best way to lay slabs is on a level and stable surface. This is usually achieved by first digging out the area to a depth of around 100mm, and then filling it with a concrete base and ensuring it is flat and level.
Once the concrete base has hardened, the slabs can then be laid on the surface.
In addition, it is recommended to apply a suitable paving adhesive before relaying the slabs. This is to provide better adhesion and ensure that the slabs don’t move or shift. Finally, always ensure that the slabs are laid using a small gap to enable expansion and contraction of the surface due to weather changes.
What do you use to fill gaps between flagstone?
To fill gaps between flagstone, you can use a variety of materials. For smaller gaps, you can use sand, grout, or a trowel-able acrylic joint filler material. For larger gaps, you can also use pea gravel, crushed granite, or one of the larger sized silica sands.
It is important to note that not all flagstone will be of a uniform size, so it is best to purchase a variety of sizes to ensure the gaps are filled properly. When mixing sand or grout, it should be mixed to the consistency of peanut butter and wet enough to be fluid, but still able to hold its shape when placed on the stones.
If you are using an acrylic joint filler material, it should be applied with an acrylic applicator and allowed to dry for 24 hours for best results. Additionally, for larger gaps, it is advised to use a sand or gravel mixture of a size that is two times bigger than the width of the gap.
No matter the gap size or filler material used, it is important to completely fill the gaps and remove any excess material left on the surface of the stones.
Can polymeric sand be used with flagstone?
Yes, polymeric sand can be used with flagstone. Polymeric sand is a specialized sand used as a base material for flagstone pavers and slabs. It’s composed of a mixture of both fine and coarse sand, along with a bonding agent that helps hold the material together and reduce the growth of weeds and the risk of ants.
When the sand is wet it becomes sticky and binds the flagstone pieces into a more cohesive and solid surface. Polymeric sand is usually used in raised bed settings, where large flagstone is set on perimeter restraint or bed edging pieces.
This makes for a more stable and secure installation for the flagstone, so it won’t settle or move around. Regular sand will not provide the same level of stability, as it can settle, sink or wash away over time due to rains or floods.
Many professionals recommend using polymeric sand over regular sand when working with flagstone, as it is more durable and offers better long-term performance.
