How To Lay Yorkshire Stone Flags

Laying Yorkshire stone flags can be a rewarding and attractive way to add a natural, rustic touch to your outdoor space. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to lay Yorkshire stone flags:

1. Start by preparing the area where you will be laying the flags. Clear the space of any debris, weeds, or existing paving. Then, excavate the area to a depth of at least 4 inches (10 cm) and add a layer of crushed stone or gravel to provide a stable base for the flags.
2. Next, create a screed by using a long straight edge, such as a timber board, to level the crushed stone base. Screeding involves smoothing and leveling the base to ensure that the flags will sit evenly and be properly supported.
3. Once the base is prepared, it’s time to lay the flags. Begin by placing the first flag in the corner of the area, making sure it is level and aligned with any adjacent structures or features. Then, lay the remaining flags, working your way out from the corner and using a spirit level to ensure they are level.
4. As you lay the flags, you may need to cut some of them to fit around corners or other obstructions. To do this, you can use a hammer and chisel, or a circular saw with a masonry blade.
5. Once all of the flags are in place, you can fill the joints between them with jointing sand or a mixture of sand and cement. This will help to stabilize the flags and prevent weeds from growing between them.
6. Finally, sweep the jointing sand into the joints using a brush, and then lightly wet the flags to help the jointing sand settle into place.

With these steps, you can lay Yorkshire stone flags and add a beautiful, natural touch to your outdoor space. Just be sure to take your time and follow these instructions carefully to ensure a professional-looking finish.