Complete Guide to Laying Indian Sandstone Paving

Step 3: Level the Foundation 

It’s important to level the foundation before proceeding.

• Set up string lines to measure the falls and use a rake to level the area.
• Now, compact the entire surface with a garden roller or tamper.
• Use a spirit level to ensure the foundation is level before proceeding.

Level The Foundation 

Step 4: Apply the Foundation Base

• Apply and compact a 50mm layer of sub-base material (Crushed Stone or MOT Type 1)
• Repeat the process to achieve an overall sub-base depth of 100mm.
• Ensure the area has a sufficient slope to allow proper surface water drainage.

Step 5: Preparing the Indian Sandstone Slabs

• Wash the slabs with a sponge and clean water, removing any dust or dirt on the slabs surfaces.
• Using protective gloves, Prime the backs of the paving slabs with a specific priming product or fine mortar slurry.
• We recommended our KPRO Paving Slurry Primer for a more professional finish. 

Priming Indian sandstone slabs before installation improves adhesion, ensuring a stronger bond between the stone and mortar. It reduces water absorption, preventing staining and weakening, and protects the surface from mortar marks. Priming also provides a more consistent finish, enhancing the durability and longevity of the paving.

Top Tip: 
Using protective gloves when priming the paving slabs can help reduce the risk of skin irritations, cuts or scratches. 

Preparing the Indian Sandstone Slabs

Step 6: Mortar Preparation 

• Prepare a mortar mix using four parts sand to one part cement, adding water until the mixture reaches a “wet” and workable consistency thats similar to thick custard. 
• For efficiency and accuracy, apply a full mortar bed to a small section first and level it to ensure the bed is roughly 30mm thick.
• Once you are satisfied with the placement of one slab, proceed to the next step. 

Mortar Preparation

Step 7: Laying the Sandstone Paving Slabs

• Start laying the sandstone paving on the full mortar bed, leaving a gap of 8 to 10mm between each slab.
• Now, gently tap the centre of the slabs into the mortar with a rubber mallet to secure them in place.
• Use a spirit level to ensure the slabs are level and accurate throughout this laying process.

Top Tip:
Using a Rubber Mallet absorbs the impact when tapping the slabs, preventing the slabs from cracking during installation.  

Laying the Sandstone Paving Slabs

Step 8: Jointing the Paving Slabs

• To joint the paving slabs, prepare a mortar mix with three parts soft building sand to one part cement.
• Gradually add water, mixing it slowly until you achieve a smooth, damp consistency—it should resemble a very thick custard. 
• Use a trowel to fill the joints, pressing the mortar down and smoothing it over with a pointing tool. 
• Take care not to let any mortar spill onto the surface of the paving slabs, as this could cause staining.

Top Tip:
If mortar does get on the surface on the slabs during application, wipe it off immediately to prevent staining.

Jointing Sandstone Paving Slabs

Step 9: Allow Setting Time

Once the mortar has set and is hard, simply give the area a thorough sweep, and the job is complete! We recommend allowing a minimum of 24 hours to set before you begin walking on the paved area, and allow 36 hours to set in wet weather conditions. 

Sealing & Maintaining your Indian Sandstone Paving

Sealing Sandstone Paving Slabs

In order to preserve the durability and overall appearance of your sandstone paved area, start by sealing it with a suitable stone sealer to protect it from stains and weather damage. We recommend our professional grade EASYSeal Sandstone Enhancer & Sealer, available in 5 litre tubs. 

Its recommended to reapply the sealer every 1-2 years to keep the paving looking its best, and further ensuring its durability by adding a protective layer against weathering.

EASYSeal Sandstone Sealer & Enhancer