I'm trying to create a walkway using some free Vermont slate flagstone that's about 1/2" to 1" thick. The flagstone was previously just laid on sandy soil, which worked fine but didn't look great. I want to use pea gravel between the stones for a nicer aesthetic, but I'm worried about using such thin flagstone since most guides seem to recommend 2" thick stones. What kind of base should I use to support this thinner flagstone? Is a paver base suitable, and is pea gravel a good choice for the fill between the stones?
3 Answers
Honestly, using gravel might cause some maintenance issues down the line. It tends to mix with grass and can trap leaves and weeds, making it a headache to keep clean. If you don’t mind the work, go for it, but keeping it directly on the soil might save you some trouble in the long run!
For your project, you'll want to focus on two layers: the base and the bedding. I recommend laying down at least 2 inches of 3/4 gravel for the base—crusher run gravel can also work well. On top of that, you can add at least an inch of 1/4 chip. This will provide a solid bed for your stones and help fill the gaps between them. Just remember to ensure your base drains away from the house during installation!
That sounds solid! Also, ensure the 1/4 chip is well compacted for better stability.
We did something similar and used a gravel base followed by a layer of sand before placing the stone pavers. This layered approach could give you the stability you need while allowing for proper drainage.
I totally agree, gravel can get messy. But if you want that look, just be ready for some upkeep!