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Flagstone Walkway
Flagstone is a really popular material that can be used to build spectacular walkways.
The same way we explained on the Flagstone Patio Section, there are two main ways to install this material, both of them have pros and cons, but when done right, the result is a professional looking walk would improve the look of any house.
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* Flagstone Walkway on top of Concrete:
These sidewalks 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 walk 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 flagstone 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" thick stone would be enough. And sometimes it is. But do not expect the stone walkway to last many years if the material is lacking quality from the beginning.
* Flagstone Walkway on Stone Dust or Cr6:
These flagstone walkways 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 3" to 4" of a material called stone dust (CR6 could also be used for bigger applications). This material is easily compactable and gives us a very strong surface. (You can also use coarse gravel if you need to have faster drainage).
To install this walkway, 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 stone dust and fill the joints with more stone dust or even dirt if you do not like the bluish color of the stone dust.
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 base material.
Finally, other items such as edging and spikes should be use to procure the longevity of the project.
This is a broad overview of a few pointers for flagstone walkway installation. There are many details and techniques that are not explained here. If you need a professional to install or just help you with your stone patio, gives us a call. We offer free estimates for all Montgomery County and Maryland!!
Rocha Construction: (301) 717-8310
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