Flagstone pathways are an elegant placement in any landscaping. There are number of options for pathways, but flagstone is a popular option. Often used in paving and landscaping, flagstone is a general term given to sedimentary rock. By strong pressure and heat, sedimentary rock is formed as small particles and creates a strong, dense mass forcing together the layers. After the formation is created, it is split into sheets and called flagstone. Today, we at Matt Myette Landscaping would like to elaborate further on flagstone.
Advantages of Flagstone Pavers
As a common a sandstone mix, flagstone is also derived of from limestone or quartz stone. Usually ranging from a half an inch to about two inches, the thickness varies. Flagstone is commonly found in red, beige, brown and pink colors as well as green, blue or white. Flagstone has many benefits, including durability and long-lasting quality. Flagstone pavers don’t need the type of soil base concrete pavers require due to their strength, which allows for easy installation. Flagstone is a top option to help beautify a landscape with a natural look and rich color. With more durability comes less maintenance with denser stones. Flagstone can be easily protected and kept even longer as it can be sealed.
How to Lay Flagstone on Dirt
Below are a few steps for a DIY flagstone pathway installation. However, for intricate designs and high-quality workmanship, professional installation is the best solution.
1) Excavate the area. Remove all the old landscaping materials, rocks, and debris with a rake to form the pathway.
2) Pathway plot. With a bright spray paint, mark the inside of the planned pathway.
3) Border installation. Use a shovel or hoe along the outer edges of the painted lines to prepare the area with trenching out about 2 inches into the ground. Secure the vinyl garden border in place by using a hammer and border takes. As needed, backfill with dirt. Keep your finished pathway intact over time and avoid washouts during heavy rains with the help of the border.
4) Weed block addition. Over the pathway, roll out the weed block. Trim the excess with scissors after your stake down the loose edges.
5) Sand. Make sure to keep it somewhat level, with the weed block material and spread the sand out a few inches. Make the middle of the pathway a tad higher than the sides for better drainage and compact the sand down.
6) Flagstone. In your preferred pattern, dry fit the flagstones allowing 1-3 inches in between them. Use the larger stones first and nestle into the sand until they do not move when they are stepped on. Fill in the gaps with the smaller stones or se a hammer to break up the larger pieces.
7) Pebbles. Spread the pebbles out and sweep them into the gaps using a wide broom after the flagstone is in place. This will help create a unique texture, maximize the water absorption and better secure the stones over time.
Stone Work & Masonry Construction in Greater Morrisville, Stowe & Lamoille County, Vermont
If you are looking for a flagstone pathway, call Matt Myette Landscaping and let our qualified experts help you make the walkway design gorgeous and properly install your flagstone pathway.
