Flagstone is a primary selection for outdoor spaces, walkways, patios, and other landscaping projects. The use of flagstone is reasonable due to flagstone’s natural appearance and high robustness and flexibility. Nonetheless, beginners experience a significant challenge in selecting the ideally suited flagstone for their project. Numerous installers commit a variety of blunders that may have a critical influence on their effort. The following are the top ten Flagstone mistakes to avoid: Flagstone is sought after because it can effortlessly integrate into any natural environment. It gives almost any outdoor space a natural hiccup, be it a dump pit for a quaint courtyard, a golf track for an outdoor lawn, or a vigorous entrance.
- Overlooking your climate
Moreover, haughty negligence might be the most egregious blunder. Each species of flagstone has its particular features, and some species will be inappropriate for your climate. For example, some types are porous and crack when water freezes on the surface, while others are suitable for combating extreme temperatures or high humidity. If one ignores this nuance, it may lead to arrest and renegotiation. If a yard is located in a cold climate, then one should select the densest and less porous species of bluestone or sandstone. Meanwhile, for a hot and humid region, a moisture-resistant species has to be selected for a correct match.
- Ignoring Aesthetics
However, as important as functionality is, neglecting one’s consideration of aesthetics can often lead to failure and remorse. Specifically, since flagstone in Loveland is available in different colours, textures, and patterns, it is an avoidable mistake to not assess the material’s compatibility with your home’s architecture and current landscaping. In other words, the colour or design elements of the materials might just not match the style of existing surfaces, resulting in an ugly and jarring outdoor space. Therefore, do not skimp on thoroughly examining the options and seeing how they will work in the bigger picture.
- Not considering maintenance requirements
Maintenance would depend on the flagstone variety used, with some being more susceptible to staining, fading, and moss and algae growth that requires routine cleaning and sealing. However, failing to consider the upkeep implications will have you locked in on a time-intensive and expensive maintenance routine. To demonstrate, lighter flagstones like limestone or travertine will be more prone to staining and visibly so and will need regular cleaning and sealing to stay looking good. Conversely, denser flagstones, such as slate or bluestone, are more resistant to staining but might necessitate power washing to get rid of built-up dirt.
- Underestimating the project scope
Misjudging the scope of the project. Failure to measure with precision can result in miscalculations regarding the square footage of the area and the measurements of the applied substance, such as the edging and grout. Failing to take the incline and decline of irregularly shaped areas into consideration can result in both excessive overages or not enough material, which increases total project costs. Be incredibly precise with measurements before acquisition. Deduct for any curving, flipping, and edging.
- Skimping on thickness
One more point to think about is the thickness of the flagstone. Selection of thinner material should not be based only on its lower price. Thin flagstone is more prone to cracking, chipping, or actual shifting, which undermines the entire construction and leads to a need for costly repairs or even total reinstallation. Normally, flagstones for outdoor use intended for being stepped on or having heavy things placed on them or occasional falling objects on them should be not thinner than 1-1.5 inches.
- Ignoring surface texture
Another important aspect that determines how slip-resistant flagstone is safe is surface texture. As mentioned earlier, any finish that is too smooth and polished becomes slippery when wet, leading to potential risk. Therefore, apart from all the other properties, surface texture is a significant factor in the material’s safety hazard. The choice of finishing directly correlates with the area of intended use of flagstone. For example, surfaces with high texture and roughness, such as river rock and sandstone, are more suitable for high-usage and water surroundings. Smooth surfaces may be utilised for low-usage and decorative areas.
- Overlooking suitability for outdoor use
All flagstones are not the same when it comes to using them outside. Some are more likely to be susceptible to fading, cracking, or any other kind of weather effects. If you do not select a freestone designed for use outside, you can face costly repairs or replacements. Your outdoor freestones should be dense, non-porous, and non-toxic to UV, moisture, and temperature variations.
- Neglecting proper installation
The best flagstone will not be perfect if it is put in incorrectly. A great deal may settle, break, and wear if installation is hurried or the process excludes essential steps like sealing. Take your time or pay a professional to make the finished product last longer and look better. A base is a substructure that soil sits on and shifts over time. For flagstones and other such rocks, this base is generally composed of coarse gravel and sand that has been compacted.
- Disregarding load-bearing capacity
If you plan to use flagstone in areas that would withstand heavy loads like driveways, patios with hot tubs, or outdoor kitchens, insist on the type of stone that can support heavy loads. Avoiding this consideration can lead a contractor to install flagstones that continue to break, bend, or sink – all safety hazards causing costly repairs. Larger, denser flagstones – such as bluestone, quartzite, or specific granite varieties – are frequently the better varieties to choose from.
- Impulse buying without research
Finally, one of the costliest errors is buying on impulse. Flagstone is an expensive investment, and not planning ahead, researching the different types and their benefits and drawbacks, or even checking whether it is practical for your project can lead to costly mistakes and regrets. Before buying anything, please take the time to learn more about Flagstone and the characteristics and features of different products that will be suited to your requirements.
Conclusion
Steer clear of these ten common pitfalls, and you’ll have a successful, straightforward flagstone selection process on your hands. Don’t hesitate to do the groundwork, get planning ahead, and seek reputed flagstone supplier help. Your effort and time will result in a stunning, long-lasting, and low-maintenance outdoor space that adds beauty to your home’s value while also providing you with treasured access.
