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Flagstone Patio
Flagstone (also known as Slate) is a really popular type of material that can be used to create gorgeous stone patios.
There are two main procedures to install this material, both of them have pros and cons, but when done right, the result is a professional looking patio that is long lasting.
Here are a few pointers on what to look for when working on having a flagstone patio installed.
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* Flagstone Patio on top of Concrete:
These structures are the most preferred kind. The idea is to install the stone on top of a reinforced concrete base. This procedure ensures that the stones will not sink or move with time, leaving you with a patio that will last for years to come.
For this procedure is always recommended to have a concrete base that is at least 4" thick and reinforced with fiberglass or welded wire mesh. This structure should be installed on top of a flat and compacted gravel bed to add support to the whole structure.
After the concrete is installed, the stone comes next. We recomend that you request the contractor to install at least 1" to 1.5" thick slate pieces. The thinner the pieces, the more brittle they become with time.
Many contractors might cheat you into thinking that 3" of concrete or 0.5" of flagstone would be enough. And sometimes it is. But do not expect the patio to last many years if the material is lacking quality from the beginning.
* Flagstone Patio on Stone Dust / CR6:
These slate patios are cheaper and faster to build than the ones in concrete. They also have the advantage of being able to be repaired at a much lower cost.
Any damaged or sunk stone could be replaced in just minutes for a new piece, saving you hundred of dollars in the process.
We would start with a nice and firm base. To create this surface, we will install and compact at least 4" of a material called CR6 (gravel with stone dust). This material is easily compactable and gives us a very strong surface. (You can also use coarse gravel if you want to have more drainage capabilities).
To install this patio, we will get thicker pieces of stone than the ones found on concrete applications. The thicker and heavier the piece, the more stable it will be down the road.
After having a leveled and compacted base, just place the stones on the CR6/gravel and fill the joints with more CR6 or gravel.
If you are not a fan of weeds between the stones, make sure to install a layer of "weed stopper" or "geotextile" barrier under the gravel bed.
This is a broad overview of a few pointers for different flagstone patio installations. There are many details and techniques that are not explained here. If you need a professional to install or just help you with your DIY slate patio, gives us a call. We offer free estimates for all Montgomery County and Maryland!!
Rocha Construction: (301) 717-8310
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