Install a patio or pathway

Plan

Mark out your path or patio area with spray paint.

A rope or garden hose can be used as a template to create a flexible line.

2x4's can be used as a template for straight lines.

Make a grid work of stakes and strings to guide your finished height and level.

Excavation

Use a sod cutter or shovel to excavate down approximately 6 inches.

Fabric

Lay filter fabric at the bottom to slow weed growth if desired. It is important not to use plastic as it won't allow for drainage.

Base Rock

Lay 3 inches thick of 5/8" minus crushed aggregate. Use a compactor and pack it down tightly.

Base Sand

Lay 1" thick of Builders Sand or 1/4" Minus Crushed Aggregate to make an even bed. Use a 2x4 or another board to smooth it flat. 3/4" PVC can be laid down as a screed guide. Run your board across the top of the pipe to get 1" of sand. A compactor can be used as well to form a solid base. A rope or garden hose can be used as a template to create a flexible line. 2x4's can be used as a template for straight lines. Make a grid work of stakes and strings to guide your finished height and level.

Place Stones

Lay stones as desired. With natural flagstone, you can fit them as close together as you would like. Up to 3 inch gaps are typically acceptable. When working with concrete pavers, you typically will just butt them up against each other. They typically have bump-outs to gap as designed.

Fill In the Gaps

Fill in the gaps with Fine Washed Sand, 1/4" minus crushed rock, or a polymeric Joint Filler.

For sand or gravel, compact or knock on the stones a bit to settle the material into the gaps better. If necessary sweep more material into the gap. Typically, the gaps are filled to just under 1/8" from top of the stone.

If you are using one of the joint fillers that harden, please follow their specific instructions to set the materials.

Topsoil can be used as a gap filler if your gaps are large enough and you would like to plant groundcover between the stones. Check with your local nursery about "steppable" plants which actually thrive then they are walked on!

Enjoy!