Creating a stunning natural flagstone patio is simpler than you might think and makes for an excellent DIY project.
First, check out our DIY Patio Kit, which has everything you need to create a 100-square-foot patio.
Following our straightforward guide for laying flagstone using the dry construction method, there’s no need for concrete or mortar. This method is quite forgiving, making it suitable even for beginners.
Why Choose Flagstone?
Flagstone installation is straightforward and versatile in design. Each flagstone piece is uniquely sized and shaped, adding to the rustic charm without requiring extensive planning. It’s helpful to lay out a few square feet of flagstone beforehand to visualize the outcome, but generally, you work with the pieces as they come.
This guide focuses on building a square patio approximately 10’ x 10’ with all the materials included in our Flagstone Patio Landscape Kit, but you can create any shape or stone pathway.
We suggest using polymeric joint sand instead of regular sand to set the flagstone. Polymeric sand helps secure the flagstones and prevents weeds without needing landscape fabric. It also deters ants and other pests. Available in various colours, it can contrast with or match your flagstone. Alternatively, you can fill the gaps with soil and plant grass seed for a more rustic appearance, though this requires additional maintenance.
Material & Tool List
Our simple DIY kit includes all the materials you need to get started:
- 2500lbs of 2” Rundle Flagstone
- 1 cubic yard of Rundle Fines
- 2 Bags of Polymeric Jointing Sand
- 3’ x 50’ Weed Barrier
- Patio Edging & Spikes
You will also need some tools, including:
- Shovel, Rubber Mallet, Broom, Measuring Tape & Level
- Tamper (can be rented at most hardware stores)
- Gloves & Safety Glasses
- String or Garden Hose for marking
Building Your Flagstone Patio
Once you have gathered all your supplies and materials, you can begin creating the base and laying your flagstone.
Select a Location
Start by selecting a level area for your natural stone patio. Ensuring the flat surface will help it integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Measure the desired dimensions for your patio using a tape measure to determine the length and width. Mark the four corners with stakes and connect them with string to outline a rectangular or square shape.
Clear & Excavate
Excavate the area within the string outline to a depth of 10 inches, using a spade for clean, straight edges, and then switch to a shovel to remove the remaining sod and soil. It’s advisable to install aluminum paver edging around the perimeter of the excavated area, cutting and placing it as needed and securing it with spikes every 2 inches. This edging will help contain the flagstone and prevent outward shifting.
Fill & Tamp
Fill the excavated space with 3-6 inches of Rundle Fines. Compact the gravel using a tamper, which can be rented for this task, to create a solid, stable base. Check the grade using a scrap plank of wood and a level, aiming for as many level points as possible, even if imperfect.
Lay Flagstones
Begin laying your flagstones from one corner, spacing them 0.25 to 0.5 inches apart according to your preference. Tap each flagstone with a rubber mallet to settle it into place, ensuring the top surfaces are as level as possible. You may need to add or remove sand in some areas to maintain an even surface.
Set With Jointing Sand
Once all the flagstones are in place, pour Polymeric Joint Sand over the patio and sweep it into the gaps with a broom. Finally, spray the surface with water using a garden hose and allow it to cure overnight.
