Flagstone Pavers

There is nothing as elegant as those vintage, Victorian style, early 20th century buildings made of stone. Their look, the feel, the appearance is out-and-out like something straight out of stories children are told about royalty and blue blood! But thanks to modern construction, architectural and landscape designing practices, if not exactly that, we can have something similar to that in our homes. How? Well, one of the ways is to have flagstone pavers, which are very popular amongst homeowners for building patios, walkways and stepping stones.

What are Flagstone Pavers?

These pavers, simply put are nothing more than flat slabs made up of natural paving stone material. This material is particularly obtained from a stone quarry. Typically, the stone for these pavers is composed of sandstone, slate or even limestone. The reason is that these can be easily cut and split into slabs. The best part about them is that they are available in an array of patterns and colors, which makes these pavers really attractive. It is fast becoming a popular choice for those who want to build a patio or a walkway, or a driveway and so on. In addition to that these, pavers are available in various shapes, from random or odd ones to proper rectangular or square-shaped pavers. So all in all these are the best bet for a homeowner. The way you use these can either give your yard a rustic charm or can be made into magnificent Mediterranean styles! That is the beauty of flagstone patios!

Laying Flagstone Pavers

Laying flagstone pavers is not an easy task. You need a lot of tools and at least a little expertise in such things. The preparation before you actually lay them is the most important aspect. For the pavers to be laid well, usage of the correct base material, its compactness and thickness, are vital aspects. In addition to this, the extent of excavation required too has to be worked out. That will be determined by the type of soil where you want to install them. For instance, if the soil is firm, the excavation depth will need to be such that it accommodates sand, mortar and the thickness of the paver. While actually laying the pavers, mixing the mortar and keeping it constantly wet is a must. Avoid laying these pavers in a large area at one go. Tackle a small area at a time. For drainage, allow a slight slope when you lay the pavers. This can be done with the help of a carpenter's level. Last thing is to take care of the joints, by spreading sand evenly over them. Also make sure that you sweep the sand in the joints till they are properly filled up. Then you will have to sprinkle the joints with water and then let it be. You will have to keep on doing this process till the joints get compact and hard. For the installation you will need -

• Flagstone
• Mortar mix
• Sand
• Forming materials
• Mallet
• Tape
• Safety gear
• Level
• Broom
• Brick trowel
• Concrete joint tool

Cost of Installing Flagstone Pavers

These are generally more expensive, than the usual manufactured pavers and patio stones. The size, thickness and the availability has an impact on the cost. The prices are mostly in square foot for these pavers and these are in the range of $20 to $30 or may be even more depending on the specific requirements and extent of what is going to be built with them.

That was all. Till next time, it is adios from me!