we hope that you find the following information useful, but if you have any questions please feel free to e-mail us , alternatively call us on : 01568 616818 and ask us personally.

As with anything preparation is the key, the surface onto which the floor is to be laid should be sound, solid and free of dust. There are basically 2 methods of laying, using a mortar mix and using a tile adhesive. Mortar mixes are cheaper, and better if you have to make up large discrepancies . However to ensure good adhesion, it is recommended that a  p.v.a solution be used in the mortar mix, and painted on the floor and the back of the flagstones  prior to laying. The flagstones should be laid onto a solid bed of mortar and bedded in, avoiding splashes on the top of the flagstone as this will stain.  Start in the middle of the room and work out to the sides, this will result in all the cutting of the flagstones being at the edge of the room. Allow the mortar to dry for at least 24 hours ( preferable 48) before allowing any traffic.

Using a rapid set tile adhesive ( a powder mixed with water ), takes much less time to cure, check the instructions on the packaging, but usually it can be walked on after about 6 hours. It is applied in a much thinner layer, but is considerably more expensive. Adhesion is good, and as with mortar the flagstones should be laid on a bed and not spots. Again avoid getting any adhesive on the surface of the flagstone. Rake out the joints as you go, this will allow the grout to adhere to the flagstones.

For cutting we recommend the use of an angle grinder with an appropriate stone disc. When cutting make sure you wear the appropriate safety equipment, and follow hirers guidelines. Make sure you cut through the edges of the flagstone before finishing the cut along the top, this will ensure that the flag will not chip at the corner.

Having laid the flags, the next step is to seal them before grouting, this prevents surface staining by the grout. We  recommend the use of boiled linseed oil, as this enhances the depth of colour. Using a soft rag, wipe the linseed oil over the surface of the flagstones, avoid getting any oil into the joints, leave for approx 30 mins, and then WIPE OFF ANY EXCESS, failure to do this will result in a sticky floor. Once dry, the joints can be grouted. We have found a tile grout to be the most effective, again follow manufacturers instructions. Remove any grout from the surface of the flagstones before it dries completely. Once the grout is completely dry, further coats of linseed oil may be applied to enhance the colour, this will also seal the grout, ensuring that any EXCESS IS WIPED OFF BETWEEN COATS. We have found that "Johnson's Traffic wax" gives a nice sheen without being too shiny, we have also found that the paste rather than the liquid gives better results. There are, however many different types of floor seals, available which give different types of finish. We are always interested in feedback with regard to floor finishes and there effectiveness.