Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Flagstone Patio - New Installation
Doityourself.com community forum was created to provide answers to all questions related to home improvement and home repair. Doityourself community can help you find information about how-to topics on small fixes to large remodeling projects. With comprehensive how-to content and expertly moderated community forums DoItYourself.com makes it easy to tackle even the most complex home improvement projects.View Full Version : Flagstone Patio - New Installation
03-09-01, 06:24 PM
Hi! I would like to have a "flagstone" patio installed in my backyard. Can you tell me the basics of how they are constructed such as depth and materials used? Is flagstone the same as slate? What quality issues should I be aware of? What details should I watch out for when comparing bids? Any info you could provide is appreciated.
2000
03-10-01, 03:51 PM
Flagstone is a catchall term. Sandstones and slates are common choices (from 1/2" to 2" or more in thickness). Imitation flagstone (a cast concrete product) is available also. If stone is out of your price range decorative concrete, in simulated stone, may be an option.
The best installation method or suitable stone depends on service conditions, esthetics, plus your wallet. Service conditions include use, loads [people, objects - stationary or rolling] over the life span, and environmental factors (weather extremes, pollution, drainage, and soil conditions).
Construction may be:
1.) over a crushed stone and/or sand base. Good where frost heaving is likely. Easy to readjust. Typically joints are either sanded or dry mortared [filled with dry sand & cement then watered].
2.) Mortared to a concrete slab. Very durable when well planned & can support heavy traffic loads. Difficult to fix. Typically joints are wet mortared.
3.) A mortar bed isolated from the ground. Again more difficult to fix. Typically joints are wet mortared. 4.) Direct soil contact. Typically stones 2" or more in thickness over stable soil. Subject to frost heaving.
Depth of materials for 1, 2, or 3 vary. 4" might be used in one circumstance and 8" in another.
Concentrate on mechanics then esthetics. For example, is the soil stable and well drained. Will roof or yard run off need to be diverted. Will trees or shrubs be planted near by. What are the highest and lowest temperatures recorded. Is an uncovered patio the final act. How will it be used for the next 30 years. Pre answer questions along those lines. Afterward stone dealers and contractors will be able to direct you to suitable stone, thicknesses, installation methods, and care of.
The best installation method or suitable stone depends on service conditions, esthetics, plus your wallet. Service conditions include use, loads [people, objects - stationary or rolling] over the life span, and environmental factors (weather extremes, pollution, drainage, and soil conditions).
Construction may be:
1.) over a crushed stone and/or sand base. Good where frost heaving is likely. Easy to readjust. Typically joints are either sanded or dry mortared [filled with dry sand & cement then watered].
2.) Mortared to a concrete slab. Very durable when well planned & can support heavy traffic loads. Difficult to fix. Typically joints are wet mortared.
3.) A mortar bed isolated from the ground. Again more difficult to fix. Typically joints are wet mortared. 4.) Direct soil contact. Typically stones 2" or more in thickness over stable soil. Subject to frost heaving.
Depth of materials for 1, 2, or 3 vary. 4" might be used in one circumstance and 8" in another.
Concentrate on mechanics then esthetics. For example, is the soil stable and well drained. Will roof or yard run off need to be diverted. Will trees or shrubs be planted near by. What are the highest and lowest temperatures recorded. Is an uncovered patio the final act. How will it be used for the next 30 years. Pre answer questions along those lines. Afterward stone dealers and contractors will be able to direct you to suitable stone, thicknesses, installation methods, and care of.