How to Install Flag Paving
Here is an example of the steps you need to go through for the most basic of flag paving installations. If you need any further information on our products or installation call our technical team on 0845 6080577.
Check list
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. Below is a list of tools and materials you will need.
Spade, rake, broom, rubber mallet, spirit level, string line, tape measure, pointing trowel, cutting tool (e.g. disc cutter), cement mixer (not essential) and compactor (mechanical if possible), wheelbarrow and some personal protection equipment such as gloves, glasses and protective footwear.
You will also need your choice of paving, building sand, washed sharp sand, cement, DTp Type 1 Sub-Base. The quantity of the materials will depend on the size of the area you are installing, so ask your local Builders Merchant who will be able to advise. You can find your nearest Brett stockist Merchant by calling 0845 6080577 or by clicking here.
• Step 1 - Get organised
Arrange your materials to be stacked nearby on dry ground and allow enough room for mixing mortar nearby.
• Step 2 - Marking out
Mark out the paving area according to your plan. For help with designs and laying patterns contact our design service on 0845 6080577.
• Step 3 - Digging out
Clear all vegetation and remove the topsoil, consolidating and levelling the ground to a suitable depth to allow for bedding materials and the paving (Detailed later in this guide). Remember the top surface of the paving should be at least 2 brick courses (150mm) below the level of any damp proof course when installed.
• Step 4 - Setting your levels
Use pegs and string line as a guide around the perimeter of the area to ensure an even finished surface and include a 1:80 fall as a drainage slope away from any buildings or fences.
• Step 5 - Installing the subbase
All paving should be laid on a firm, level base to ensure long-term stability. Lay approximately 100mm of DTp Type 1 Sub-base material and compact well to a minimum of 75mm depth.
• Step 6 - Laying the mortar bed
We recommend perimeter bedding with a dab in the middle. If you are installing natural stone, lay a full mortar bed to cater for thickness variations. Use a mortar mix of one part cement to 6 parts building sand. The depth of the mortar bed should be at least 25mm. Only lay a bedding area that you can use within a reasonable amount of time so it does not cure too soon.
Lay flags from different packs for the best overall effect of texture and colour. When positioning,, take care with large sizes (two people working together helps to prevent the risk of injury and breakages).
• Step 7 - Laying the flags
Lay each flag in turn, tapping down using the rubber mallet and spirit level, maintaining the slope mentioned above.
Natural stone paving should be laid with the greater surface area face up, the cut edge (chamfer), should diminish towards the ground.
We recommend a nominal joint width of 10mm on most paving. Some Brett products can be butt-jointed, see our latest brochure for more information.
• Step 8 - Leave to dry
Once all the paving is laid, leave the mortar to set and do not use the area for at approx 24 hours. Cover if rain is forecast.
• Step 9 - Pointing up
To finish, joints should be pointed on a dry day. This is done using an almost dry mortar mix of one part cement to four parts washed sharp and. Ensure this is thoroughly mixed.
This should be trowelled into the joints, smoothed over and then pointed either with a pointing tool or a rounded piece of wood. Clean mortar spillages immediately to prevent staining.
All finished!
Tips
• When laying small areas, buy project packs that feature mixed sizes. These are economical and provide a balanced mix of sizes for a traditional look.
• Try to avoid joint lengths of more than 3 flags to improve the appearance of your finished project.
• If required, install edging, manhole covers and drainage channels before your main paving.