How to Install Flagstone Steps

Flagstone steps can be an excellent addition to any home. You will find that they last for a long time and are very inviting and beautiful. They can easily be installed and are as versatile as they are sturdy.

Step 1 – Measure

You will need to begin this project by being able to calculate both the horizontal and the vertical distance for each of your steps. You will need to figure out how much distance is needed so that you can know how many steps are needed along with the depth and the height of each of your steps. The formula that you will need to know for this is twice the rise plus your run. This will typically equal somewhere between 25 to 27 inches. If you cannot get the formula to work for you, then you may want to consider changing how long your stairway is. The longer the run, the shorter your rise will be. This means that if you want a shorter run, you will need to have higher rises.

Step 2 – Clean Area

You will need to make sure that the area is completely clear before you begin. This will allow you to have a clean base to start with. The forms that are needed for your concrete foundation are typically built with 2bys after the concrete has been poured. You will need to make sure that your concrete has time to completely dry before you begin to remove any boards. This will keep the concrete from sagging or moving at all.

Step 3 – Fitting Stones

You are now ready to select and fit your stones for your risers and treads. Your stones will be cut by using a carpenter’s pencil to mark the area that needs to be cut. You will then score the area that you are cutting with a chisel and a hammer. You will sharply strike the area with a sledgehammer. You will need to make sure that you always wear safety goggles and gloves whenever you do this. Small pieces will fly off and can easily get in your eye or cut you. Make sure that you take your time whenever you are cutting to make sure that you make smooth cuts.

Step 4 – Mortar

You are now ready to lay a 1-inch layer of mortar. You will need to spread it completely over the area that the stones are going to be laid on. Make sure that you do this one tread and riser at a time so that the mortar does not have a chance to dry before you can get to it. Use a rubber mallet to tap the stones into place. Once you have all of your stones tapped into place, you will now need to wait. It is a good idea to allow for at least a week to pass before the steps actually see any foot traffic so they have time to set.