Laying Natural Stones

Lay a suitable sub-base material such as a crushed hardcore well compacted onto the subgrade. This is followed by a 30-50mm laying course of concrete made up of 4 parts sharp sand and 1 part cement. All natural stone must be laid on a full bed of concrete that supports the whole stone.

Before laying the natural stone an application of primer to the underside will improve adhesion. Carefully lay the natural stone and tap into place with a rubber mallet to the correct level. Place the next stone with an adequate joint and continue with the appropriate laying pattern. Avoid cross joints when laying. NB: as with all natural stone the top is the widest surface. Lay full natural stones first and complete the cuts at the end. After a few days, the joints can be pointed with a mortar made up of 4 parts washed sharp sand to 1 part cement. Alternatively, joints can be filled using jointing compound which is an all-weather brush-in, naturally coloured sand compound. Consideration can be given to using grout where narrow joints of 10mm or less are used.

All natural stones are designed to be laid with joints. All cement and grout stains on the face must be washed off immediately or the flagstones will be permanently stained. The use of acids to clean off mortar or other stains is not recommended as it can have a detrimental effect on the product.