How to Lay Sandstone

Mark the area where you want to lay the stones. Twine and stakes are a good way to create straight lines for the patio. Check the measurements of the sides opposite each other to ensure they are equal if you want a square or rectangular patio. Otherwise, form the shape that you want with the twine lines. In addition, use a square in the corners where you want right angles to adjust the sides to the correct position.

Dig out the space equal to 8 inches plus the thickness of the stones minus 1 inch.

Level out the soil. Scoop or fill in the soil as needed and use a level to check your progress.

Mix up the crushed gravel and stone dust. Pour 3 1/4 inches of the material in the opening and spread it around. Spray water on the mixture to settle it.

Walk a plate compactor over the material to pack it down to about 3 1/4 inches. Repeat with another layer of gravel mixture. Spray it with water, and pack it down as well.

Mix up a mortar-like mixture with 1 part cement to 12 parts stone dust. Pour in water to make a thick mortar. Mix up only as much as you think you can work with in an hour or less. The mortar starts to stiffen after a while, and adding water to it is not recommended because it weakens the mixture. It is better to make small batches and make more as you go.

Spread the mortar mix over the surface, starting in one corner of the patio area. Smooth out enough for several stones. It is a good idea to determine the pattern you want before starting this part of the work. Apply enough mortar for two or three sandstones at a time. The mortar dries quickly once it is spread out thin, and you must lay the stones in place before it starts to set up.

Lay the stone on top of the mortar. Press the stone in slightly. Repeat the process all the way across the wet cement. Tap the stones down if one is too tall in order to keep them level. Place a level across the stones to check. Leave a 1/4-inch gap between the stones.

Cut stones to fit edges. Use a wet saw to cut the stone easily. Mark the stone and cut along the mark. Move the saw slowly to prevent chipping.

Let the patio dry and harden for a couple of days before using it.

Spread stone dust over the surface and sweep it into the cracks. Sprinkle the patio with water to settle the dust.