Laying Flagstone: A Basic Guide for the Do-it-Yourselfer

Basically, there are two main methods to laying flagstone patios.  You can either install it using a wet construction method or opt for using a dry construction technique.

Dry Construction – The Preferred Method of Do-it-Yourselfers

Typically, do-it-yourselfers prefer laying flagstone by using a dry construction method. This involves laying flagstone in sand versus laying a patio in concrete, as is the case in wet construction.  Laying flagstone in sand is much less time-consuming as you don’t have to worry about waiting for the mortar to set as you do in wet construction.  However, laying a patio using dry construction will also involve more upkeep after the patio is laid. As time goes on, the patio will settle; therefore, you will have to level out the patio with more sand as this occurs.

Choosing to Begin Your Project of Laying Flagstone

Assuming you want to do it yourself then, it’s probably best to initiate such a project by choosing to lay your flagstone patio in sand. This type of method, once you learn it, is not difficult if you have the help of another person. Nevertheless, the stone is rather weighty, so make sure you wear the proper safety and work gear, such as gloves, goggles and a back brace to lessen the strain.

For a Natural-looking Landscape – Choose Irregular Stone

You can either use pre-cut stone that you purchase from a stone yard or irregular stone. Stones should be about a couple inches thick. To give a more natural look to your landscape, irregular stone is a better choice. Make sure that you use the broadest pieces to ensure a solid foundation.

The Important Step In Laying Flagstone - Preparation

Before you begin the fun part of laying flagstone, you must prepare the area. Therefore, you’ll need to measure the length and width of the proposed patio. Mark each set of measurements with stakes and strings. Therefore, if you have an area, say, that is 12’ by 10’, you’ll measure out the length (12’), and note it with two stakes marked by a string tied to each one of them. You’ll do the same when measuring the width (10’), and note the width with two stakes marked, again, by string tying them together. Once you are done measuring and staking the area, make sure that the length is the same on the marked areas.

Excavation

Use a spade and dig down about 5” around the border of the marked area. Shovel the dirt about 5” down as well for the base. Once you’ve shoveled out the dirt, you’ll want to set a plank running the measured length of the area and check the level. Keep removing dirt and leveling the area until it’s even on each side and in the middle. Follow in the same manner by setting a plank in the area width-wise, checking the level and removing the dirt from each side and in the middle until its even.

Leveling Out the Area

Dampen the soil of the level, shoveled-out area and tamp it before covering it with landscape fabric. Frame the proposed area of your patio with four 2 x 4 planks nailed together. Shovel a couple inches of sand over the area and cut a scrap of wood to act as a screed (approximately 10’ x 2’). Glide the screed over the top to level the sand and create a surface that is even. Follow by tamping down the sand.

Laying Flagstone

After the “nitty-gritty” part of the process is completed, you can begin the part of the project you’ve been eagerly awaiting, and that’s laying the stone. Start in a corner and start laying flagstone, making sure you keep the spaces between the stones uniform and minimal. Use a rubber mallet to tamp down the stones. Check the level to make sure it’s in sync. If you find a stone not level with the other stones, then you’ll need to remove it and add some more sand. On the other hand, if a stone is set higher than the other stones, then you’ll need to remove it and skim off the excess sand.

Adding Some Finishing Touches

After you’ve set your patio, add some additional sand and sweep the sand in between the flagstones into the crevices. Add crushed stone around the perimeter to complete the project.

The above guide is meant to provide the basic steps for laying flagstone for your patio. As you can see, it can be done without too much difficulty, once you have a fairly good idea what’s involved and the steps you need to take.

While laying flagstone is a project that can be done by the do-it-yourselfer, it is always a good idea to consult a professional. Using the simple, easy to follow instruction guide, ‘How To Install A Flagstone Patio’, will save you time, money and frustration when laying flagstone.