Stepping Stones Made With Sanded Grout

Stepping Stone Options

• Individual stepping stones can be laid, in any pattern, or steps can be formed with smaller rocks arranged to cover the step area. Decorative stepping stones can be made by adhering mosaic or ceramic tile to precast round or square concrete bases with a tile mastic. You can make a similar style using beach or river gravel.

Base

• All stepping stones should be set in a firm base of sand over compacted gravel or concrete. The area is dug out, filled with the base and stones are set in place. The joints between elements then are filled with grout to secure them. Joints of tile pieces or pebbles set on a concrete form are sealed with grout as individual steps before installation. They then can be used as single steps or combined for larger steps with sanded grout in the joints.

Grout Bag or Float

• One method of grouting uses a grout bag, which is a fabric bag with a metal tip similar to those used by cake decorators. Wet grout is put in the bag, which is then squeezed to force grout into the joints between masonry. A second method employs a grout float. Wet grout is spread over the surface and pushed into the seams with the grout float. Excess is wiped off the surface with a damp sponge, rinsed regularly in clean water. Grout is then shaped by running the sponge along the grout joint.

Dry Grouting

• An alternative method of grouting larger areas is to spread dry grout on the stones and sweep it into the joint with a broom or brush and then seal it by dampening it with a misting nozzle on a hose. This method does not work well on stepping stones formed with many small pieces or on tile. It is best on large steps made of large rocks set beside each other.

Cleanup

• Grout spread with a float often will leave a "haze" on the surface of the stepping stone. This can be removed once grout has fully set by rubbing with a soft dry rag. Excess grout that dries on rock or other surfaces can be removed by wiping with a cloth or by using a wire brush.