The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Using Flagstone Outdoors?

Answer 1

The term flagstone does not refer to a specific composition of rock, but rather a broad category of stones that are defined by their flat shape and layered nature. A flagstone is generally less than two inches thick and made of layers of sediment that have been deposited over the centuries to form a solid piece.

Mined nearly everywhere in the world, flagstone can be used in practically any application. From patios to roof tops, walls to pathways. It has both benefits and drawbacks. The aesthetics are unique, but so too are the methods that must be employed to work with it properly.

One of the first benefits of using flagstone outdoors is that it will not expand or contract in changing weather. The flagstone will remain the original size and shape. It stands up extremely well to extreme weather conditions and can last a lifetime.

One property of flagstone which some see as a great benefit, and others see as a great drawback, is the fact that they are usually quarried in irregular shapes and depths. A skilled installer can take a pallet of irregular flagstones and, with only minor cutting, create an artistic and natural looking area of stone.

A disadvantage when using flagstone, especially for those installing it themselves, is that the depth of each stone may vary. This means adjusting the packed earth underneath of each stone to make sure they are all level on the surface. This can take quite some time and effort.

There are pre-cut flagstones. These are stones that have been cut to exacting sizes in order to allow a more geometric pattern. They are more expensive than the uncut, irregular stones though.

Another disadvantage is that under two conditions, the flagstone is less than desirable to be on. When wet, the stone can become slippery despite the fact that its textured surface is very slip-resistant when dry. The other condition is in the sunlight. When heated, as in the summer, the flagstone will hold the heat fairly well and the stones can get very hot.

Flagstone has established itself as a very exquisite material for outdoor use. Skilled workers can do amazing things with this stone. Ultimately, however, it is up to the aesthetics of the home owner to decide whether flagstone is the right material for the job.