Understanding Cobblestone Installation
Proper cobblestone installation requires careful planning and precise calculations.
- Stone Specifications Standard size: 4"×4"×4". Range: 3-6" width. Depth: 2.5-4". Coverage: 36-45 stones/m². Weight: 5-7 lbs each. Add 10% waste factor.
- Base Requirements Gravel base: 4-6" depth. Sand bed: 1-1.5". Compaction: 95% Proctor. Slope: 1/4" per foot minimum. Edge restraint: 6" deep minimum.
- Pattern Options Fan: 5-7 stones/ft². Running bond: 4-6/ft². Random: 4-8/ft². Circular: 6-8/ft². Herringbone: 5-7/ft². Account for cutting waste.
- Joint Specifications Width: 3/8-1/2". Sand fill: polymeric preferred. Depth: full stone height. Sweep-in rate: 1 lb/ft². Compaction: 3 passes minimum.
Installation Guide
Site Preparation
Excavate 8-12" total. Grade for drainage. Compact subgrade 98%. Install geotextile. Edge restraints: concrete or aluminum. Mark utilities.
Material Selection
Granite: most durable. Sandstone: softer. Reclaimed: varied sizes. Base stone: 3/4" clean. Setting bed: concrete sand. Joint sand: fine grade.
Cost Analysis
Stones: $15-25/ft². Base materials: $3-5/ft². Labor: $12-18/ft². Edge restraint: $3-5/ln.ft. Delivery: $150-300/load. Tools: $200-500.
Maintenance Guide
Resand joints yearly. Power wash bi-annually. Repair settling promptly. Seal every 3-5 years. Weed control: quarterly. Winter: avoid salt use.