How To Lay Natural Stone Paving | Bradstone

Natural Stone paving is easy to maintain, boasts character and is easy to install. In this video, we share our 65 years of experience to provide you with an in-depth step-by-step guide on how to lay Natural Stone paving.

Step 1: Prep
As part of the standard manufacturing process, it is likely you’ll find dust on the back of Natural Stone pavers.

To improve adhesion between the paver and laying bed, we suggest rinsing the dust off.

Step 2: Marking out
Using simple tools like string, pins, and spray paint, we'll show you how to mark out the precise area where you want to pave, ensuring accuracy and precision.

Step 3: Excavation
Excavate a minimum depth of 150mm, allowing 100mm for the sub-base, 30mm mortar bed and then Natural Stone paving slab itself. To comply with building regulations the paving must be at least 150mm below any DPC (damp-proof course).

Step 4: Establishing Lines and levels
For every metre width, the Natural Stone paving needs a slope or a fall of around 17mm (1:60).

Step 5: Preparing the sub-base
Tip and rake to a consistent depth, at least 100mm, into layers of 50mm, compressing at least twice to ensure the sub-base is compact enough.

Once smooth and flat, check the slope with a spirit level. There should be a minimum depth of 75mm or 3 inches on a patio.

Step 6: Mixing Mortar
Mix 4:1 sharp sand to Ordinary Portland cement. The mortar should bind together without being sloppy, or runny.

Step 7: Preparing the bed
Use a shovel or trowel to apply the mortar to the sub-base. It's crucial to ensure complete contact between the Natural Stone paving slabs and the mortar. Take care to spread an appropriate amount of mortar for one flag at a time, making sure that the bed extends beyond the edges of the flagstone. This step is vital in establishing a strong and stable foundation for your exquisite Natural Stone paving, ensuring its long-lasting beauty and durability.

Step 8: Primer
For the best possible outcome, it is vital to prime your Natural Stone paving using a top-quality polymer-modified cementitious slurry primer such as Bradbond.

Using a masonry brush to meticulously coat the entire underside of each paving slab, adhering closely to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Take care to ensure no primer touches the flags.

Step 9: Placing
After priming the Natural Stone paver, handle it with care as you lower it onto the meticulously prepared bed. With a rubber mallet gently tap the paver, ensuring a secure and snug fit within the designated space.

Take a water-filled bucket and a brush to wipe down the face of the Natural Stone paving slab. This step removes any excess mortar or debris.

To achieve the correct joint widths, we recommend using spacers and repeating the process for each Natural Stone paving slab you lay.

Not sure you want to do the project yourself? Find your local Bradstone assured landscaper so you can have peace of mind in a project well done!

#Bradstone #NaturalStonePaving #HowToGuide #BradstonePaving #HowToLayNaturalStonePaving #HowToLayPavingStones #HowToLayPatioStones #LayingNaturalStonePaving #LayingPaverStones