Bricks, pavers, and concrete patios are popular. Along with these materials, flagstone patios have a fan base as well. Let’s know more about flagstone patios and if you should instruct your patio builder to build a flagstone patio.

What Is Flagstone?

Flagstone is a broad term used for many natural stones that can be cut into flat pieces for use as walkways, patios, driveways, and more. So, if you want to install a flagstone patio or walkway, you will also need to specify which type of stone you want to use as flagstone. Usually, sandstone is used as flagstone. However, other stones like bluestone, quartzite, limestone, and slate are installed as flagstones too.

So, now if someone says they have a flagstone patio or walkway, you can ask which stone they used.

Why Install A Flagstone Patio?

Colors And Styles

As flagstone means any natural stone that is suitable for use as pavers and walkways, there are different types of stones with their own colors and styles. Natural stones are produced by nature and no two stones may look exactly the same. So, you have a huge choice of colors and styles.

But the style is not limited to that. After selecting the stone and its color and texture, you can choose from a wide selection of patterns for laying flagstone. For that, you can check out different flagstone patio ideas to get inspiration.

Durability

Even though the durability of a flagstone patio depends on the type of stone you will use, all natural stones are durable and can withstand any weather conditions and foot traffic. Therefore, whichever stone you select for a flagstone patio, it will last for years. For extended lifespan, you should install flagstone on a concrete base and avoid using thinner stones.

Suitable For Any Budget

Flagstone patios are not limited to one stone so the cost is also not flat. You can choose affordable natural stones for a cost-effective patio or go for luxury and rarer stones that are costly and offer an unmatched appeal.

This gives you the same freedom that you get when choosing the colors and patterns of flagstone. Whichever stone is right for your budget and style preferences, you can have it installed.

Low Maintenance

Flagstone patios are fairly low maintenance. Natural stones are porous so water does seep into flagstone, but you can prevent this by sealing the surface regularly – yearly or every few years.

Other than that, a sweep with a broom or a leaf blower will keep your flagstone patio clean. You can use a power wash once a year to keep the patio tidy. If you notice stains, use a mix of bleach and water to get rid of the stains.

Plus, a big benefit of flagstone patios is that you won’t need to remove weeds and grass from the surface, unlike brick patios.

Easy To Repair

Flagstone can get cracked which you can fill up. If the stone becomes damaged or cracked, you can replace it like you can replace a damaged brick or tile. However, the replacement of a flagstone is a bit more difficult than replacing a tile.

Flagstone has many benefits over tiles and bricks, but a huge one is that you don’t need to worry about grout lines when it comes to a flagstone patio whereas grout lines are a headache in brick and tile patios.

Easy Installation

Flagstone is an easy-to-install material and is suitable for people who want to install a patio by themselves without hiring a contractor.

Safety

Many patio materials become slippery when wet. However, most stones used as flagstones are textured and offer plenty of friction. This ensures that the surface doesn’t become slippery after or during rain, or snowfall, or if the patio is near the pool.

Therefore, if you need a material that is anti-slip for your patio or pool patio, flagstone will be a good choice. But make sure to choose a textured stone. However, keep in mind that during heavy rain or snowfall, any type of surface can become slippery.

Disadvantages Of Flagstone Patios

Installation Is Time-Consuming

Even though the installation of flagstone patios is considered easy and many people can do it, its installation takes more time than some other materials. Moreover, natural stones are heavy to lift. Creating a pleasant pattern can become difficult for new DIYers because you will need to cut some of the stones to give the patio the look you want.

So, better hire a contractor if you want a perfect-looking flagstone patio or can’t spend a lot of time installing a flagstone patio.

Natural Stones Can Become Hot Upon Sun Exposure

Natural stones used as flagstone are durable and can withstand high temperatures. However, they do become hot when exposed to the sun and can scorch someone’s feet if they are barefoot. Similarly, the flagstone can become ice cold in winter so you should make the arrangement of using foot ware or putting something on the patio like a rug. However, maintaining a rug placed outdoors can be difficult so you should go with the option of using foot ware.

Sand Bed Issues

If you go with the installation of a flagstone patio under a sand bed, it can become problematic for you later. Sand and the ground relevel causing issues with the flagstone base and you will need to adjust it.

However, it’s easy to avoid this problem. Don’t use a sand bed as a base for your flagstone patio. Instead, use concrete mortar that won’t shift or move over time. With it, you won’t need to adjust your flagstone patio.

Flagstone Can Crack

The durability of your flagstone patio is dependent on the thickness of the stone you select. Using stones that are thinner than one and a half inches will lead to cracks and damage more often even if you use concrete as mortar for the stone. So, make sure to use stones that are at least one and a half inches thick for better durability.

Maintaining A Flagstone Patio

Clean Water Off The Surface

Water seeps into natural stones and you need a sealer to keep the stone waterproof. However, even after applying a sealer, you should be keen on removing water from the surface because although excess moisture doesn’t damage your flagstone patio, it can discolor the surface.

Keep in mind that you can slow down discoloration of flagstone, but can’t stop it. The stone will react with moisture and air which will result in fading of the color.

Choose The Right Cleaner

You can’t clean your natural stone or flagstone patio with just any cleaner. Some cleaners can even etch, damage, or discolor the surface. So, you should give some thought to the type of cleaner to use for your flagstone patio. Look for cleaners that are made for the specific stone you have installed. But if you don’t find it, use a cleaner that is suitable for natural stones.

Seal It Regularly

To fill up the pores of the stone and the mortar used for installing the stones as a patio, seal the surface with the correct sealer. Instead of a glossy finish sealer, go for a sealer that has a matte finish.

Conclusion

Flagstone patios offer a wide array of designs, colors, and price tags. However, don’t use thinner stones because they will crack easily. Moreover, let a patio contractor Long Island install a flagstone patio for the best results.