How to Install Flagstone for Patios, Walkways, & Paths

Flagstone is a natural or manufactured stone widely used for patios, walkways, and garden paths thanks to its unique texture and timeless appeal. Its shape and earthy colour palette add character to any outdoor project. At kreitmaker, we provide premium flagstone to homeowners, landscapers, and contractors across Canada. This guide covers what flagstone is, how to install it properly, and how to maintain it long-term.

What is Flagstone

Flagstone can generally be categorized into two types: natural and manufactured.

Natural flagstone is a sedimentary rock that splits naturally into flat, thin layers, creating the irregular slabs used in hardscaping. These stones are formed over thousands of years from compressed layers of sand, clay, and other mineral sediments. Common natural types include sandstone, slate, and limestone, each offering distinct colours, surface textures, and durability levels. Natural flagstone is known for its organic, earthy aesthetic, and no two pieces are exactly the same, which makes it especially popular for creating unique patios, walkways, and garden paths.

Manufactured flagstone, on the other hand, is man-made and designed to mimic the appearance of natural stone. Typically made from concrete or other composite materials, manufactured flagstone offers more consistency in size, shape, and colour. This can be ideal for modern or formal layouts where uniformity is preferred. While it doesn’t have the same natural variation as quarried stone, manufactured flagstone can be a practical choice for budget-conscious projects or designs requiring precision.

Both types serve similar functional purposes, but the choice between them often comes down to personal style, project requirements, and budget.

The Process of Installing Flagstone

Materials & Tools You'll Need To Install Flagstone

Before diving into installation, it's important to gather the right materials and tools. Your needs may vary slightly depending on whether you're building a patio, walkway, or path.

Materials:

• Flagstone (choose size and colour based on your design)
• Crushed gravel or concrete (for base)
• Mortar to adhere to base
• Sand or stone dust (for levelling)
• Landscape fabric (to control weeds)
• Optional: polymeric sand or mortar cement (for joints)
• Optional: Edging (for clean lines)

Tools:

• Shovel
• Rake
• Wheelbarrow
• Plate compactor or tamper
• Rubber mallet
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Chisel and hammer (to shape flagstone)
• Broom
• Garden hose

If you're unsure about how much material you will need, the team at kreitmaker can help you calculate quantities and offer product recommendations based on your layout.

Instructions for Installing Flagstone

Let’s break down the general installation steps. These apply whether you're installing a patio, walkway, or path, with minor adjustments noted later.

Plan & Design

Before any digging begins, create a clear plan for your patio, walkway, or path. Use stakes and string to outline the shape. Take time to consider traffic flow, access points, and any slopes in your yard. Measure carefully to calculate how much flagstone, gravel, and sand you’ll need, and mark areas for any curves or corners to minimize cutting later.

Ensure the plan considers drainage. The finished surface should have a slight slope, typically about 1/4 inch per foot, to direct water away from buildings and prevent pooling.

Excavate the Area

Excavate the area to a depth of 6–8 inches, depending on the soil type and the weight the surface will need to bear. For patios and high‑traffic walkways, deeper excavation ensures long‑term stability. Keep the sides of the excavation as even as possible, and check that your base will allow for a gentle slope for water runoff.

Install Landscape Fabric

Lay landscape fabric across the bottom of the excavation to prevent weed growth while maintaining drainage. This barrier also helps separate the soil from your gravel base, which prevents the layers from mixing over time.

Add the Gravel / Concrete Base

Pour in 4–6 inches of crushed gravel or concrete and spread it evenly. If choosing a gravel base, compact the gravel thoroughly with a plate compactor or tamper in several passes to create a stable foundation. A well‑compacted base prevents sinking, shifting, and uneven stones in the future.

Add a Levelling Layer

On top of the compacted gravel, spread 1–2 inches of sand or stone dust. Rake the surface and check it with a level to achieve an even layer that will allow the stones to sit flat and stable.

Install the Flagstone

Start laying the flagstone from one corner or along a straight edge. Place the larger, flatter stones first to form a strong foundation, then fit smaller stones in the gaps. Use a rubber mallet to tap each stone into place, checking for stability and levelness as you go. If you used a concrete base, butter the mortar to the back of the stone and adhere to the concrete base.

Cut & Shape Stones as Needed

Use a chisel and hammer to trim stones to fit tighter joints or unusual spaces. Take your time shaping edges to achieve a clean and cohesive look.

Fill the Joints

Sweep sand, stone dust, or polymeric sand into the gaps between the stones. Polymeric sand is particularly useful for locking stones in place and preventing weeds. If using mortar, use a piping bag or jointer to fill the joints. Ensure the joints are completely filled for stability.

Water & Settle

Lightly mist the area with water to help the jointing material settle—especially if using polymeric sand, which will harden after activation. Avoid heavy soaking to prevent washout.

How Installation Differs for Patios, Walkways & Paths

While the basic methods and principles remain similar, such as including a slight slope away from structures for drainage, each scenario where flagstone can be used has its own considerations.

Patios

• Base depth: Patios support furniture and foot traffic, so the base must be thick and well-compacted.
• Joint spacing: Tighter joints provide a smoother walking surface.
• Stone thickness: Use thicker flagstone (1.5" or more) for strength.

Walkways

• Width: Allow at least 3 feet for comfortable passage.
• Pattern: A more structured layout helps with balance and comfort.

Garden Paths

• Formality: Garden paths can be more rustic and informal.
• Spacing: Stepping stones spaced apart are common in low-traffic garden paths.
• Edging: Optional, but helpful to define the shape.

Each application balances aesthetics with performance, so consider how the area will be used before finalizing your design.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Flagstone

Even a beautiful material like flagstone can look unfinished or fail prematurely if not installed correctly. One of the most common errors to avoid is skipping proper base preparation, which leads to shifting and uneven stones. Additionally, avoid using flagstone that is too thin, which is more prone to cracking under weight. It's also common to leave joints improperly filled, inviting weeds and reducing surface stability. Poor levelling can result in tripping hazards and areas where water collects.

Lastly, neglecting to account for drainage can cause water pooling, which may damage the surface and promote the growth of moss or algae. Proper planning and execution go a long way in ensuring your flagstone feature looks great for years.

How to Maintain a Flagstone Surface After Installation

Flagstone is relatively low maintenance, but a little care helps keep it looking fresh and performing well over time.

To maintain your flagstone surface, sweep regularly to remove leaves, dirt, and debris. Rinse it with water occasionally to prevent staining and organic buildup. Replenish joint filler, especially if using loose sand or stone dust, every couple of years to maintain stability and appearance. Check for any settling or movement and adjust the stones as needed. Weed control is important too; you can apply a non-toxic herbicide or remove weeds manually.

As an added step, you may want to seal your flagstone. Depending on the stone type and the area of use, applying a sealant can enhance the colour and add an extra layer of stain resistance. Our experts at kreitmaker can help you choose a sealant based on your needs and which stone you chose. Not every sealant is compatible with every stone, so be sure to ask our team for guidance.

Why Flagstone is a Favourite in Landscaping

Flagstone adds both form and function to outdoor living spaces, making it a great choice for everything from quiet garden paths to heavily used patios. It's unique textures and colours, ranging from greys and browns to reds and greens, can blend seamlessly into outdoor settings, giving projects a natural and timeless look. It’s also dense and weather-resistant, making it an excellent long-term investment. With the flexibility to suit both rustic walkways and formal patios, flagstone is one of the most versatile materials available. Its naturally non-slip surface provides reliable traction even when wet, which makes it a safe choice for high-traffic areas.

Choose the Right Flagstone at kreitmaker

kreitmaker carries a wide selection of natural flagstone in various colours, sizes, and textures to suit any hardscaping project. Our inventory includes high-quality sandstone, limestone, granite, and more, ranging from classic square-cut flagstone ideal for refined patios to irregular pieces that lend a natural look to rustic garden paths. We supply materials suited for dry lay and mortar set applications, and we work with both contractors and homeowners to match the right product to the intended use and style. Our idea spaces display a curated range of flagstone options so you can see colour and texture in person before making your final decision.

Whether you’re a homeowner working on a DIY garden path or a contractor planning a large patio project, our team provides expert advice and fast, Canada-wide delivery.

Our team is here to help you bring your outdoor vision to life. Connect with us today to discuss your project, ask questions, or get expert recommendations on the best flagstone for your space. Or, you can visit one of our idea spaces to look at flagstone samples in person.