Laying a flagstone walkway can add beautiful hardscaping and charm to your landscape. Flagstones create a classic, timeless look that works with many styles from traditional to modern. When installed properly, a flagstone walkway is an incredibly durable and low maintenance addition.
With some planning, proper materials, and good technique, you can create a stunning flagstone path yourself. While labor intensive, most homeowners can tackle this DIY project and save on installation costs. We’ll walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
Materials and Tools Needed
Before starting your project, be sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. You want to avoid having to stop work to get more supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
Flagstones
Flagstone comes in many natural stone varieties including bluestone, slate, quartzite, limestone, and sandstone. The type you choose is an aesthetic decision, as they all have comparable durability. Look for stones:
- 1 to 4 inches thick
- Relatively flat and square/rectangular shapes
- Similar sizing with a consistent thickness
- No major cracks or flaws
Allow for 10% overage to account for cracking, shaping, and design changes.
Gravel and Sand
- Gravel: This serves as the base layer. 3/4″ gravel is ideal.
- Paver sand: As you set the stones, you’ll sweep sand into the joints. Look for coarse builder’s sand.
Edging
Edging contains the gravel base and gives a polished look. Options include:
- Landscape timbers
- Blocks
- Plastic edging
- Aluminum/steel
Base Material
- Crushed stone: This is compacted on top of the gravel to level and stabilize. 3/8″ is a good size.
- Concrete sand: After laying flagstones, sweep this into crevices for stabilization. It’s finer than paver sand.
Tools
- Shovel and wheelbarrow
- 4 ft. level
- Plate compactor (can rent)
- Push broom
- Rubber mallet
- Chisel and hammer
- Spray paint
- Broom
- Shop-vac
- Gloves and eye protection
Planning Your Flagstone Walkway
Careful planning ensures you purchase the correct amount of materials and that your finished walkway fits the space properly.
Layout
Mark out the shape of your path with spray paint or stakes. Consider how it will coordinate with the landscape. Curving shapes work well for casual garden paths, while straight lines match a contemporary look.
Factor in at least 18-24” for the width—36” if walking side-by-side is desired. Avoid tight turns or narrow areas.
Measurements
To calculate how much stone you’ll need:
- Measure the total square footage of your planned path. Length x width.
- Divide that by the square footage of your average flagstone. This gives approximate stones needed.
- Add 10% for overage.
- Multiply total estimated stones by depth for cubic feet of gravel.
- Use an online calculator to determine sand/gravel amounts.
Don’t skimp on materials—it’s better to have leftovers than run short halfway through!
Preparing the Base
Installing the gravel base correctly prevents erosion and keeps your flagstones evenly supported over time.
Excavate
Remove any grass or plants from the area. Dig out to a depth of 8″ to 10”. Use stakes to mark the edges and a level to ensure an even depth. The soil beneath should be firm and compact.
Fill and Compact Gravel
- Fill the excavated area with 4″ to 6” of gravel (usually 2-4 passes with a wheelbarrow).
- Use a plate compactor to pack it down. Compact after every 2” lift.
- Repeat to desired depth, compacting each layer. Leave 1” below edging.
- Level surface with a rake.
Install Edging
- Set landscaping timbers, plastic edging, or your border of choice on top of the compacted gravel.
- Use stakes if needed to keep edging straight and secure. Backfill with gravel.
The edging contains the base and provides a crisp edge next to lawns or planting beds.
Laying the Flagstones
Now comes the satisfying part—finally laying the flagstones! Using good technique ensures they remain level and firmly in place.
Set up Work Area
- Clear space next to your prepared base to organize materials.
- Stage your stacks of flagstone nearby.
- Open bags of sand/gravel within easy reach.
Prepare Bed
- Spread 2” of crushed stone atop the gravel base. Compact it fully.
- Top with a 1″ layer of concrete sand. Smooth with a trowel or screed board.
This creates a perfectly flat, consistent bed for setting the flagstones.
Lay Stones
- Start in a back corner. Set the largest stones first utilizing various sizes for best coverage. Cut smaller stones as needed to fill gaps along the edges.
- Maintain 1⁄4” to 1⁄2” between stones. This allows sand to sweep between to seal cracks. Irregular spacing looks organic.
- Use a rubber mallet to tap and level stones, adjusting as needed. They should be even across the top.
- Repeat laying row by row until you reach the opposite end. Avoid creating a cross-joint pattern. Stagger seams like bricks.
- Cut excess flagstone as needed with a chisel or stone cutter.
Take care to keep the stones tightly together. Don’t walk on laid stones until finished or they’ll shift out of place.
Sweep Sand
Once all flagstones are laid:
- Sweep paver sand across the entire surface, allowing it to filter into crevices. This stabilized everything in place.
- Spray lightly with a hose to dampen the sand. The water helps compact it when it dries.
- Use a push broom to remove excess sand between flagstones.
Compact and Level
- Let the walkway dry for 48 hours. This allows sand to solidify.
- Run a plate compactor across the entire surface to flatten. Use a rubber pad under it to avoid scuffing stones.
- Check for low or uneven spots. Lift any problem stones and adjust sand beneath to level.
The flagstones are now ready for foot traffic! Sweep off lingering sand.
Caring for Your Flagstone Walkway
With proper installation, a flagstone walkway is incredibly durable and low maintenance. Consider these tips:
- Sweep or blow debris like leaves frequently to prevent staining in crevices.
- Rinse off dirt or mud buildup with water as needed—avoid pressure washing.
- Fill visible holes or dips in the joints with fresh sand.
- Remove weeds as they sprout—don’t let them take root in seams.
- Re-compact high traffic areas if stones become loose.
- Reseal with polymeric sand yearly.
Avoid deicing salts which can degrade stone. Instead, clear snow carefully with a plastic shovel and use sand for traction.
With periodic maintenance, your flagstone walkway will provide elegance and function for decades! The natural stone improves over time, developing an aged patina.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laying a Flagstone Walkway
What size flagstone should I use?
Aim for a relatively consistent 1 to 4 inch thickness. Length and width can vary from 1×2 ft. up to 4×8 ft., using a mix for best coverage. Go with a square-ish rectangular shape rather than irregular slate-style stones which are harder to install neatly.
What’s the best type of flagstone?
Bluestone and quartzite offer a great look while being very durable options. Sandstone is attractive but more porous. Fieldstone tends to have an irregular shape. Use whatever fits your budget and desired visual style.
Can I install flagstones on soil rather than gravel?
This is not advisable. Flagstones need a gravel base for proper drainage and to prevent sinking or shifting over time. Never install directly on top of dirt.
What tools do I need for a flagstone walkway?
A shovel, wheelbarrow, 4 ft. level, plate compactor, rubber mallet, push broom, chisel, spray paint or stakes, and eye protection are the essentials. A stone saw is great for cutting custom shapes if desired.
What’s the best way to cut flagstones?
For straight lines, score the top deeply with a chisel then break it off or hit with a hammer. For curves and custom shapes, rent a stone cutter with a diamond blade or make many small chisel cuts.
Can I seal my flagstone walkway?
Sealing is not required, but can help protect porous stones like sandstone. Use an impregnating or wet-look stone sealer, reapplying every 1-3 years. Test first, as this alters the color.
How do I get rid of weeds growing between flagstones?
Remove weeds as soon as you see growth. Spot treat with vinegar, boiling water, or a torch. For severe growth, use a weed killing spray. Prevent weeds by keeping joints filled with fresh sand.
Final Thoughts on Installing a Flagstone Walkway
Laying a flagstone path takes work, but the beautiful results are worth it. The hardest part is the prep—once the gravel base is in place, setting the stones goes quickly. Take your time to do the initial excavation and compacting properly.
The end visual impact makes flagstones a great choice whether you want an elegant front walk, a casual garden retreat, or rustic back yard path. The natural variations in shape, size, and color of the stones create visual interest.
Mistakes can be fixed! If some stones settle or your path shifts, lift sections and add more sand beneath to stabilize. Keep extra supplies handy for repairs over time. With a properly prepared base and careful technique setting the pavers, you’ll have a gorgeous, durable flagstone walkway to enjoy for many years.