Installation advice

PAVING BUYING GUIDE Installation advice

Below are ten basic, yet essential principles to adhere to when installing SmartStone cobbles and flagstones. It is important to ensure that your installer is familiar with the product and its installation.

1. Plastic sheeting should never be placed under SmartStone paving.

Weeds do not grow underneath paving. They grow from seeds that enter the paving from above, via bird droppings, wind, etc. Plastic sheeting underneath the paving will not prevent this and may create serious structural problems. The use of plastic sheeting is therefore never advised.

2. The sub base or earth under the paving must be well compacted.

The use of a mechanical roller such as the Bomag 90 is recommended, especially if the installation is at a new house where there has been excavation. It is advisable to insist on a mechanical roller, rather than a plate compactor.

3. Discuss patterns, lines and the installation plan with the installer prior to starting.

This will ensure that the end result is aesthetically pleasing and practical.

4. Ensure that the installer allows for levels and water runoff.

Insist on drainage plans and always take natural slopes into consideration.

5. When river sand is used for bedding, ensure that it is moist.

River sand should be spread out in small, manageable sections to ensure that the sand remains moist throughout the installation period.

6. Best practice for installing flagstones.

SmartStone recommends that flagstones be installed on a concrete screed.

7. Grouting:

i. The grouting of SmartStone cobbles should be done with wet slurry. The use of dry cement, sprayed with water, is not recommended. ii. Grouting of flagstones should be done with SmartStone-approved grouting. (Details are available from your nearest SmartStone branch.) iii. The grouting of flagstones should be “ pointed” . iv. Tiles and flagstones should be moist when grouted.

v. “Plaster Key ” should be added to the grouting mix. vi. Flagstones could be covered with plastic sheets for four to five days after installation in order to prevent the grouting from drying too quickly. If grouting dries too quickly, it will crack a year or two after installation. vii. Ensure grouting and cement are washed off immediately to avoid staining the SmartStone product. A hand sponge is recommended for this purpose rather than brooms and mops.