How Much Do You Know About Laying Flagstone? Test Your Knowledge with the Following Quiz
Flagstone is used in a number of architectural and landscape installations, including patios, walkways and garden walls. Take the following quiz and see how much you know about this lovely, versatile stone.
Why are fieldstones sometimes preferred over other flagstones for patios?
- They provide a flat, smooth surface which is easy to walk on.
- They are rougher stones; therefore, they are slip-resistant
- They are less costly than other stones
- They have a nice buff coloration that goes well in almost any environment
Answer: If you answered (b) you are correct. Fieldstones provide an extra feature of safety over other flagstones.
What flagstone is quarried in New Mexico?
- Slate
- Buff Flagstone
- Granite
- Limestone
Answer: If you selected (b) you are correct. Buff flagstone from New Mexico is a stone many masons find easier to work with than other varieties.
Where does blue flagstone hail from?
- Arizona
- Colorado
- New York
- Pennsylvania
Answer: If you said (d) Pennsylvania, you made the right choice.
Why is slate preferred for patios?
- It provides a smooth, even surface
- It provides a clean, neat appearance
- It provides a customized look to your landscaping
- All of the above
Answer: If you answered (d), you are correct
What is one disadvantage of laying flagstone in concrete?
- It can settle somewhat over time
- It tends to get cracks in the joints
- It’s not as smooth than other types of patios
- None of the above
Answer: The correct answer is (b)
What is one essential item you must have if you use a masonry saw to cut flagstone?
- Ear plugs
- Goggles
- Dust mask
- All of the above
Answer: If you said (d), you’re right. Because a masonry saw creates a lot of noise, dust and debris, it’s essential to use all of the above items when running one.
Why is a wet construction, or laying flagstone in concrete, preferred when laying irregular cuts of stone?
- The concrete is helpful in leveling out the stone
- The concrete around the stones hides many of the imperfections
- It’s easier to install irregular stone in concrete
- None of the above
Answer: If you replied (b), you are correct. The concrete in the joints of irregular stones covers imperfections.
What’s one thing you must do when layng flagstone in concrete to make it look more visually appealing?
- Sponge any wet concrete off the stone
- Make sure you put the larger pieces in the middle
- Place the smaller pieces along the perimeter
- Make sure the pieces are spaced at least 4 inches apart
Answer: Your answer should be (a). Make it a point to sponge off any wet concrete from the stone. Keep the concrete where it’s supposed to go between the stones, not on them.
If you use the above knowledge and combine it with the direction of a professional and then apply it to your project, the result will be a great looking flagstone patio, walkway, or wall. Laying flagstone with the use of “How to Install a Flagstone Patio” will point you in the right direction.