The following is recommended as a guideline only and may not be applicable in all situations. For more information try the local library, the Internet or consult a professional.

 

1. Plan

1. Mark out your path or patio area with spray paint.
2. A rope or garden hose can be used as a template to create a flexible line.
3. 2x4's can be used as a template for straight lines.
4. Make a grid work of stakes and strings to guide your finished height and level.

 

 

2. Excavation

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

 

 

3. Fabric

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

 

4. Base Rock

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

 

 

5. Base Sand

1. Lay 1" thick of Builders Sand or 1/4" Minus Crushed Aggregate to make an even bed.
2. Use a 2x4 or another board to smooth it flat.
3. 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.
4. A compactor can be used as well to form a solid base.
5. A rope or garden hose can be used as a template to create a flexible line.
6. 2x4's can be used as a template for straight lines.
7. Make a grid work of stakes and strings to guide your finished height and level.

 

 

6. Place Stones

1. Lay stones as desired.
2. You can fit them as close together as you would like. Up to 3 inch gaps are typically acceptable.
3. You will need to use a combination of levels and assure that each stone is level, as well as using a long level to ensure the patio as a whole is level, or sloped slightly one way to encourage water runoff.
4. If it is necessary to modify the shape of the stones, edges can be chipped off with a hammer or mallet if less than 2 inches from the edge. If more than 2 inches from the edge needs removed you can use a diamond blade on a saw. Be sure to wet the stone as you cut.

 

7. Fill In The Gaps

1. Fill in the gaps with Plaster Sand, 1/4" minus crushed rock, Gator Dust, or Super Sand, by sweeping it into the gaps.
2. Compact or knock on the stones a bit to settle the material into the gaps better.
3. If necessary sweep more material into the gap.
4. Typically, the gaps are filled to just under 1/8" from top of the stone.
5. If you are using Gator Dust or Super Sand, please follow their specific instructions to set the materials.
6. 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!

 

 

8. Enjoy!