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RhinoL&L

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Discussion starter · #1 ·
I will be starting a pattern flag patio on monday. I have a couple questions though. I will be using a 6 in. base compacted in 2in. lifts, with geotextile under base between subgrade. I am not sure about my bedding sand though, the stone varies in thickness from 1-1.5 in. do i just use less sand for the thicker pieces? Also, do i compact over the stone once laid? i feel like it wouldnt work well.

Thanks for the help!:waving:
 
#2 ·
Put down an inch of bedding sand on top of your base. I have laid bluestone by working it into the sand to level and depending on the stone, some you can easily break off layers with a chipping hammer if necessary.
 
Discussion starter · #3 ·
So do i run a compactor over the stone once laid? Im not sure what i need to do after the stone is set? I feel like the plate compactor would damage the stone.

Also what kind of saw would be best?
 
#4 ·
NO! Don't (never) run a plate compactor over the bluestone, you'll end up with cracked bluestone, broken bluestone, etc. Each piece is leveled and set with a rubber mallet. Just remember bluestone is different from pavers. There is no interlocking component to a bluestone walkway or patio as with pavers. The joints are much wider than the paver joints. The joints will vary in size from 1/4" to a 1/2". You don't need to set the pieces in concrete sand either, that will be up to you. Personally i prefer using stone dust when setting blue. There is stabilizing (polymeric) sand on the market now made for bigger joints. Google "Gator Dust" or ask your stone supplier about it.
 
#5 ·
amscapes03 said:
NO! Don't (never) run a plate compactor over the bluestone, you'll end up with cracked bluestone, broken bluestone, etc. Each piece is leveled and set with a rubber mallet. Just remember bluestone is different from pavers. There is no interlocking component to a bluestone walkway or patio as with pavers. The joints are much wider than the paver joints. The joints will vary in size from 1/4" to a 1/2". You don't need to set the pieces in concrete sand either, that will be up to you. Personally i prefer using stone dust when setting blue. There is stabilizing (polymeric) sand on the market now made for bigger joints. Google "Gator Dust" or ask your stone supplier about it.
Click to expand...
Stone dust once compacted is more difficult to set diferent thickness stones. Thats my experience. I use it for pavers but not usually for stone. I have found sand is easier to work the stone into. And absolutely do not use a compactor on the stone but yes on the bedding.
 
#11 ·
Rhino...If your not use to cutting bluestone, or for that matter using a cut off, you might try a 7" angle grinder with a diamond blade. I always have one on the job site. There's a lot less gyration with a grinder, not to mention the weight difference.
 
#12 ·
amscapes03 said:
Rhino...If your not use to cutting bluestone, or for that matter using a cut off, you might try a 7" angle grinder with a diamond blade. I always have one on the job site. There's a lot less gyration with a grinder, not to mention the weight difference.
Click to expand...
Well if he is not used to cutting with a little grinder, his straight lines will be even more difficult. Thats ok for the occasional paver but not large, flat stone.
 
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