A Brief Guide on Laying Crazy Paving Stones in Your Backyard

Tired of reading long articles just to figure out how to lay crazy paving at home? Don’t worry – we’ve got your back. In this short and simple guide, we have covered everything from planning your layout to filling in the gaps between the stones. But before you dive into this crazy paving installation guide, let’s understand what crazy stone paving is and why it is different from other flooring options.

Crazy paving is all about laying irregular-sized stones to form a random pattern on your floor. These no-size, no-shape stones are known as Crazy Pavers. Their unique look adds character and depth to your space and enhances its aesthetic appeal.

Curious to know more? Let’s get started!

What Makes Crazy Paving Unique?

Crazy paving dates to ancient Rome, when waste chippings of stones were used to create pathways. All these chippings were different from each other in size and shape. After being used for years, people forgot this beautiful design.

However, after being overlooked for years, it became a trending design for many homeowners back in the ’70s. Finally, crazy paving made its comeback with a high-quality and functional appeal. Let’s read all the reasons behind its successful comeback:

1. The gap between crazy pavers enhances the water drainage of the space.
2. It prevents the formation of water puddles during heavy rains. It also keeps your space free from the muddy slipperiness after rain.
3. Crazy Pavers are made of natural stones. The appeal of these irregular stones is further enhanced by the vibrant patterns of natural stone, colours and texture. Giving every space a unique touch.
4. Since Crazy Pavers are made of natural stone, they have natural slip resistance. For instance, Bluestone crazy paving offers a slip resistance of P5.
5. Finally, these irregularly shaped pavers are resistant to heat. Therefore, they can easily withstand exposure to the sun’s heat without any issue.

All these qualities have made them a popular and trending choice in Australia.

How to Lay Crazy Paving in 4 Simple Steps?

Ready to transform your outdoor space into your haven with stylish, unique flooring? Follow the steps below to learn how to lay crazy paving and create a stunning design that will uplift the ambience of your space.

1.  Plan Your Project
   1.1 Tools and Materials You Need:

   · Gravel or concrete for the base

   · Spacers

   · Rubber Mallet

   · Trowel

   · Broom

   · Cold Chisel

   · Measuring Tape

   · Sub-base

   · String Lines

   · Wheelbarrow

   · Sealant

   1.2 Start by choosing the area where you’ll lay the paving—whether it’s your patio, courtyard, poolside or any other space.

   1.3 Draw a rough sketch of the area just to note its size and shape.

   1.4 Start measuring the area using a string and pegs to mark the area on the ground, as it will help you visualize the paving area.

   1.5 Next, use a measuring tape to measure the length and breadth of the area in meters.

   1.6 Calculate the area in square meters to understand the arrangement and the quantity you will need.

   Note: Keep these things handy, so you can focus on laying the crazy pavers properly.

2. Base Preparation

It’s time to prepare the base now. A solid base is key to ensuring your crazy stone pavings last for a long time without any problems. Here are the steps to follow:

• Clear the Ground: Make sure to remove grass, plants, old paving stones, small particles of stones, dust and dirt.
• Dig for the Base: Dig the ground up to 225mm so that your solid base can take up to 150mm of height for a sturdy foundation. However, if you live in a city with below-freezing temperatures dig a little deeper. For a patio and a pool deck, keep the height of the base 4 inches.
• Add a Layer of Crushed Stone: Evenly spread a layer of crushed stone up to 5 inches and then spread a layer of sand across the area. This will help level the surface and provide support to the stones.
• Compact the Base: Use a compactor or a heavy tool to press the sand down firmly. This will prevent the stones from shifting in the future.

You have successfully laid a strong and solid foundation for your crazy stone pavings. Now, let’s move on to the next step.

3. Dip Seal & Lay the Pavers

Pick each piece of your stone and dip it in the sealant. This will create a protective layer on both sides of the stone and protect it from moisture and stains. If it is not possible to dip the crazy paver in the sealant, use a brush to evenly spread the sealant on both sides of the stone.

Follow the design you’ve created on the dry ground and start placing each stone accordingly. Once the arrangement is complete, you will get the desired design.

Now, use a rubber mallet to tap the stones down gently. Make sure that all the crazy paving stones are level with each other. You can also use a spirit level to keep the surface even. Make sure to leave a uniform gap between the stones for filling with grout later.

4.Fill The Gaps

You can fill in the spaces after all of your pavers are in place. For grouting, you can use mortar or sand. Once the joints have been filled, use a plate compactor on the surface to make sure the pavers remain in place. Lastly, use a broom to sweep the area and remove any remaining sand and mortar. Now, let the area dry for 24 to 48 hours. Make sure no one steps on it during this time.

Conclusion

And just like that, your crazy paver flooring is ready to shine! Make sure to follow every step from planning and preparing to sealing and grouting. Each step is crucial to ensuring your crazy paving lasts longer. You can do different types of crazy paving, such as Bluestone crazy paving and request an ideal quote for your project with us!