Flagstone is a beautiful and durable choice for various landscaping projects, from patios to walkways. The two primary installation methods—wet laying and dry laying—each have distinct advantages. In this post, we’ll explore these methods, discuss their pros and cons, and highlight Cummin Landscape Supply’s flagstone products to help you choose the best option for your landscape.

What Is Wet Laying?

Wet laying involves setting flagstone on a concrete or mortar base, ensuring a permanent, stable installation. The stones are bonded together, making this method ideal for areas that require long-term durability.

Typical Uses of Wet Laying

Wet laying is commonly used for high-traffic areas like:

• Patios: Ideal for stable outdoor spaces that accommodate furniture and foot traffic.
• Pool Decks: Provides a solid, slip-resistant surface around pools.
• Walkways: Ensures flagstones remain firmly in place with minimal movement over time.

Recommended Flagstone Products from Cummin Landscape Supply

Cummin Landscape Supply offers durable, beautiful flagstone options for wet laying, including:

• Tennessee Fieldstone: Perfect for patios and walkways. Check them out here.
• Pennsylvania Bluestone: A smooth, durable option for pool decks and high-traffic areas. Check them out here.

These options ensure long-lasting beauty and stability for wet-laid projects.

What Is Dry Laying?

Dry laying refers to placing flagstones on a bed of sand or gravel without mortar. This method is flexible, allowing for natural settling and easy adjustments.

Typical Uses of Dry Laying

Dry laying is ideal for areas where a more natural or rustic look is preferred, including:

• Garden Paths: Blends beautifully with nature, creating an organic feel.
• Casual Patios: Provides a relaxed, informal outdoor space.
• Driveways: With proper preparation, dry-laid flagstone can be used for driveways, offering natural drainage.

Recommended Flagstone Products from Cummin Landscape Supply

Cummin Landscape Supply offers great flagstone choices for dry-laying projects, such as:

• Tennessee Stack Stone: Great for garden paths and patios.
• Colorado Buff Flagstone: Natural, warm tones ideal for landscape blending.
• Cherokee Marble: A unique, striking stone perfect for walkways.

These options allow for flexibility while maintaining a beautiful, natural look.

Pros and Cons of Wet Laying

Pros

• Durability: The concrete or mortar base offers superior stability, reducing stone movement.
• Permanent Installation: Ideal for high-traffic areas, wet-laid flagstone stays in place for years.
• Reduced Maintenance: Mortar joints help prevent weeds and grass growth.

Cons

• Higher Costs: Wet laying is more expensive due to materials and labor.
• Longer Installation Time: Mortar requires curing, increasing the installation timeline.
• Less Flexibility: Difficult to adjust or repair without breaking the mortar.

Pros and Cons of Dry Laying

Pros

• Cost-Effective: Less expensive due to reduced material and labor needs.
• Faster Installation: Without mortar, installation is quicker and easier.
• Natural Drainage: Gaps between stones allow for natural water drainage.
• Easy Repair: Stones can be lifted and repositioned with minimal effort.

Cons

• Potential for Shifting: Without mortar, stones may move or settle over time.
• Weed Growth: Gaps between stones can lead to weeds, requiring maintenance.
• Less Stability: Dry-laid installations are less stable than wet-laid options, particularly in high-traffic areas.

Which Method Is Right for Your Project?

Choosing between wet laying and dry laying depends on several factors, including your budget, aesthetic preference, and the intended use of the space.

Budget

If cost is a primary concern, dry laying is more affordable due to reduced material and labor costs. However, wet laying offers long-term value for high-traffic areas requiring extra durability.

Aesthetic Preference

For a formal, polished look, wet laying is the better choice, providing a smooth surface and tight joints. If you prefer a more natural, rustic appearance, dry laying offers a charmingly irregular look that blends well with natural landscapes.

Climate and Drainage

In areas with frequent rain or frost, dry laying offers superior drainage and is more resistant to freeze-thaw cycles. However, wet laying provides better durability in milder climates and requires less maintenance over time.

Intended Use

For patios, pool decks, and high-traffic walkways, wet laying ensures long-term stability. Dry laying is best suited for garden paths, casual patios, or low-traffic areas where flexibility and natural drainage are important.

Both wet laying and dry laying methods offer unique advantages, and the best choice for your project will depend on your specific needs. Wet laying provides a durable, long-lasting installation that is ideal for high-traffic areas, while dry laying offers flexibility, ease of repair, and a more natural appearance. For all your flagstone needs, Cummin Landscape Supply offers a wide selection of high-quality products, whether you choose wet laying or dry laying. By understanding the pros and cons of each method and selecting the right flagstone, you can create a stunning, functional landscape that will last for years to come.