How to Install Flagstone Without Cement

Preparation

• 1

  Designate your site. Using white spray paint, outline the dimensions of the area that will be covered with flagstone. Measure the enclosed area to determine how much square footage of flagstone you will need.

• 2

  Excavate the ground. Dig up the area at least 8 inches in depth to accommodate about 4 inches of granite, 2 inches of sand, and your large flagstones (minimum 2 inches thick). Smaller flagstones (less than 3 by 4 inches) have a tendency to shift or tip when stepped on.

• 3

  Select flagstones with a rough, but level surface. Very smooth stones can be hazardous when wet or icy. A rough surface should also be level; this will prevent water from pooling and freezing on the surface. Remove any humps with a hammer and chisel.

Execution

• 4

  Set your foundation. Place several 4-inch wooden stakes throughout the excavated area and fill the area with granite until level to the top of your 4-inch stakes. Remove the stakes. Flatten the granite with the tamper. Using a level, ensure that your surface has a slight grade (or "tilt") to allow water to flow away from your house.

• 5

  Place several 2-inch wooden stakes on top of the granite foundation and fill the area with sand to the top of the 2-inch stakes. Remove the stakes. With a light mist from your garden hose, wet the sand and then flatten it with the tamper. Make sure that the grade is consistent and falling away from the house.

• 6

  Create a desired arrangement with the flagstones beside your work area to get an idea of where you will place them. Identify any stones that you want to cut and set aside. Using a ruler and pencil or white chalk, mark your cut lines. Wear personal protective equipment -- safety glasses, dust mask, ear plugs -- and cut stones using a masonry saw.

• 7

  Transfer three or four flagstones at a time over to your work area. Arrange the first few stones and pound them firmly into the sand with a rubber mallet. Ensure adjacent stones are level with each other. Repeat this process with the remainder of the stones.

• 8

  Pour sand over the entire surface. Sweep the sand into the spaces between the stones. Lightly spray the work area with water and allow the sand to dry. Add more sand, sweep into cracks, and lightly spray again. Repeat this process several more times or until the flagstones are securely in place.

• 9

  Monitor the level of sand between the flagstones for a few weeks. Add more sand as needed to hold the stones securely.