How to Install a Flagstone Patio

Decide where you want to build the flagstone patio or sidewalk. Take a measuring tape and measure the dimensions of the space. You can use a pavers calculator to determine how many flagstones you would need to complete this project. 

Drive stakes in the ground at the corners of your planned patio. Connect these with some strings to mark the area. Use a temporary spray marker to mark the planned sidewalk. Consider the drainage requirements when finalizing the area.

Use a shovel or rake to remove the grass, roots, weeds and debris from the marked area. Remove any boulders or stones. Start digging the soil with a shovel. Create a depth of around 6 inches. Use a wheelbarrow to transport the soil from one place to another. Place a flagstone inside this dug surface. It should be neither too low into the ground nor protruding above it. 

You will need to define the border of your patio or sidewalk. Place a metal edging around the edges of the surface you’ve just dug. Anchor the edging well with metal spikes. Cut and bend the edging as per the area’s layout.

Spread a layer of gravel or limestone across the area. This will provide a firmer base for the flagstone pavers. Use a hand tamper to compact the gravel. Make sure that the depth of this base is around 4 inches after compacting it.

Now, spread a layer of sand on the gravel base. Use a rake to spread it evenly. Compact this layer with a hand tamper. The depth of this layer must be around 2 inches.

Lay the flagstone pavers in the desired pattern. Leave a small gap around each of the pavers. Install stones of varying sizes for a natural look. Ensure that the layer of sand is not disturbed while laying the stones.

Take a box of pea gravel and spread it across the area. Use a broom to sweep the pea gravel into the gaps between each flagstone.

Inspect the patio or sidewalk for any uneven stones or gaps. Add some more pea gravel to cover the gaps. Press the uneven stones further into the ground until they are stable. Allow the stones to settle before using your new flagstone patio or sidewalk.