Natural slabs with grass spacing - Preparing a base for individual slabs

[edgerunner]

I want to lay a path of Natural stone slabs of various sizes in a scattered pattern with grass growing between them. How should I prepare a base that will keep the slabs stable but allow grass to grow between them. The gaps between slabs range from around 6 to 10 cm. Thanks.

[Tony McC]

As these are basically 'stepping stones', you'll need to bed them onto mortar, with the mortar brought partially up the sides to ensure there's no slippage. No need for a super-strength mortar: summat like 6:1 will be more than adequate.

[edgerunner]

Thanks for responding so quickly Tony.
If I understand you, (and the advice from other parts of the site) correctly, I should ... Prepare a single sub-base of approx 90mm underneath the entire path, then use about 50mm of mortared bedding as you describe under/around each stone, then fill the gaps with soil and turf. Is that right?

[rms]

A sub base is not usually needed for stepping stones. Spread the soil and lay the turf. Next layout the stones and when you are happy with their positions dig around them. A 50mm base of ballast or grit sand + cement should be adequate. As Tony pointed out, allowing the muck to finish part way up the sides of the stones will help to lock things in place. Long term movement should be minimal. The turf you dig out can be chopped up and mixed with the soil to make an excellent compost in about 6 months time.



Edited By rms on 1135970669

[edgerunner]

Thank you both for your input. I'll follow the advice. (This site is a great resource).