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Strip topsoil, dig to firm ground and lay level concrete foundations. As a rule of thumb a foundation should be dug approximately one third of the total wall/feature height (minimum depth 100mm) and foundation width should be three times the width of the wall. A recommended foundation mix would be 4 parts coarse aggregate to 2 parts building sand to 1 part cement. Stretch a building line between the ends and build one course at a time, checking for accuracy vertically, diagonally and horizontally using a spirit level. Using a trowel, spread mortar (4 parts building sand to 1 part cement) evenly over the foundations and then over the blocks in each course as you lay them; the mortar should just exude from between the joints and any surplus is taken off with the trowel. Don't forget to fill the vertical joints as you go by applying mortar to one end of the block before positioning it adjacent to the previously laid block. The blocks should be laid in a stretcher bond using half blocks at the end of each alternate course.
Using a pointing trowel, smooth and finish the mortar joints. Top with the required coping.
Please remember for retaining walls higher than 600mm and any wall built over one metre high, professional advice should be sought prior to construction.
If you are building a raised planter, barbecue or similar small garden feature on an existing concrete base or well laid patio, foundations may not be required.
Whilst StoneFlair's edging range can be laid directly into the ground, for stability a more permanent method of fixing is recommended. This may be achieved by digging out a small foundation trench to the required length, approximately 100mm deep and 150mm wide. Fill and level with a foundation mix of 4 parts coarse aggregate to 2 parts building sand to 1 part cement.
Once the foundations have cured, bed the edging by gently tapping the top edge with a rubber mallet into a mortar bed of 4 parts building sand to 1 part cement, ensuring each unit is aligned and level. Back fill the reverse face of the edging with the same mortar mix "haunched" with a 45 degree wedge of mortar to a height that will be concealed by the finished surface.
Clear the required area, removing all loose material and vegetation (use weedkiller if necessary on any deep-rooted weeds). Lay a semi permeable membrane over the whole area, with a minimum of 50mm overlap between sheets. Lay the decorative aggregate to the required depth (40mm is sufficient for most applications but check the packaging for any instructions specific to your product). Rake to achieve the required surface level. Although decorative aggregates can be laid directly onto soil it is recommended to use a membrane to minimise weed growth.
The colours depicted in this brochure are as accurate as modern photography and printing processes allow. Tonal variations are evident in all StoneFlair’s manufactured and natural stone products, we therefore recommend that colours are judged from actual materials. This is of significant importance when selecting a natural stone product which, by its very nature, each component will exhibit considerable deviations. It is important to view a range of samples at a stockist to acknowledge the authentic diversity in colours, texture and markings.
StoneFlair’s manufactured products are designed to simulate natural stone and naturally occurring aggregates are utilised, therefore variation between batches can occur. To produce a natural overall appearance when using two or more packs of product we suggest that individual products are drawn from each pack and mixed on site at the onset of the project.
Reconstructed stone products will weather in a similar way to natural stone, therefore the effect of the elements and site conditions may cause some colour change dependent on the degree of exposure. After laying, some natural stone products may exhibit a brown colouration when oxidation of any iron content occurs.
Regular maintenance is required to keep the overall appearance of the product in pristine condition. We recommend thoroughly washing paved areas with warm soapy water and brushing off with a stiff broom three or four times a year.
High pressure washers are not recommended for use on manufactured paving.
StoneFlair cannot be held responsible for the possible effects or damage caused by the contamination or application of some chemically based products which come into contact with a concrete surface e.g. some weed killers and acid or alkali based cleaners.
Common salt should not be used to de-ice wet cast paving. To prevent possible surface damage always use a proprietary brand of de-icing product expressly formulated for use on concrete.
When laying a patio or path close to a house or dwelling it is essential that the finished paving surface is at least 150mm below damp course level and should slope away from the building. (A fall of 1:60 is generally sufficient). All paved areas should be gently sloping to allow excess water to be directed away and should always be laid on well drained ground. Any base preparation should also allow for drainage. Poor drainage may result in water retention and may affect the weathering characteristics of the materials.
customerservice@stoneflair.com