What really goes into building a flagstone patio?
Austin flagstone patio in all it’s splendor.
Flagstone patio in cedar park with built-in benches
Patios are very popular here in the Austin area and flagstone patios in particular are one of the most requested type of patios among our customers. The rustic elegance they provide compliments our Texas landscape and unique home designs. Installing a flagstone patio requires a lot more steps than it may seem.
The first steps begin once the dimensions are determined during our pre-construction meeting with the homeowners. Following this important meeting we then have the concrete poured to form up the shape of the patio. Sometimes the homeowner first needs to contact their sprinkler system company and have them re-locate any sprinkler heads that are in the area of the intended patio, if not Archadeck of Austin will cap off the heads. If we are building a “full-on” patio next to a house that is built on a slab our professional concrete contractor will also install rebar every two feet to connect the foundation of the patio to the foundation of the house. This extra step ensures a stable patio foundation. Once this step is completed we then pour the perimeter of the patio. We pour this 1ft. by 1ft. around what will become the perimeter footing, we also add rebar to this area as well for an added measure of strength. Most other companies just don’t take this step; we however feel it very important for the strength and life of your patio.
Flagstone patio with steps and a pergola privacy wall
Depending on the slope of your yard, we may install a fascia. A fascia involves the underpinning which is concrete paint that is trimmed so it doesn’t convey a rough vertical surface. We will then use vertical stones around your step areas. Typically this is not done around the entire perimeter because over time it can flake and break off so we do something that will last over a long period of time.
On the top of the poured patio base we add a 4″ deep cap and pour an additional 4″ of concrete strengthened with wire mesh. Depending on the size of your patio, we may also install man-made, control and expansion joints every 10-12′ depending on the width. Once those layers of concrete properly cure, the flagstone will then be delivered by the stone company so our expert masons can lay out the flagstone in a mosaic pattern. Once they are laid out and everything is concise, we then put in the mortar that was chosen by the homeowner. One thing we are proud of is the tight mortar joints we do so well, this gives you a flagstone patio that looks like stone when you look at and not all mortar. After all, our customers are paying for stone, not mortar. After the mortar is done, the next step is to apply a sealer. The sealer is undetectable to the appearance of the patio, but it keeps moisture from penetrating the stone and also keeps mold and mildew out. The sealer also gives the finished patio a cleaner look. After applying the sealer you shouldn’t have to do any further maintenance for 5-10 years.
This flagstone patio in Steiner Ranch incorporates a water feature that can also be used as a fire pit
When the stone selections are made we generally meet our customer at the stone shop to help them with their selection and any questions or concerns they may have about a particular stone. There are actually 10-14 various types of flagstone to choose from. The most popular flagstone choices are Oklahoma, Arizona and Mexico. All the most widely used flagstones come from Oklahoma. Sometimes when we use flagstone we will incorporate beautiful and useful features such as stone benches or even a stone kitchen island if your patio incorporates an outdoor kitchen.
Flagstone patios are not only gorgeous, they are a solid material choice for your patio because with a stained concrete or concrete patio when it cracks, and it is not a question of if it cracks, but a question of when, you will have to live with it. When you use flagstone and the concrete underneath cracks you may get a little separation of mortar joints over time but you won’t see a line in the stone. Making sure your flagstone is installed by a licensed professional ensures the beauty and enjoyment of your patio is treasured for many years to come.
Oklahoma Buff Peach flagstone patio adjoining tigerwood deck
If you are ready to add a flagstone patio or other outdoor structure to your life this season, contact Archadeck of Austin to make it happen. Our talented design staff can come up with the perfect outdoor oasis to fill your needs. Call for a free consultation ( 512) 259 – 8282 email:Austin@archadeck.net
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
To see more beautiful flagstone patio creations visit our flagstone patio gallery located on our website.
A Round Rock, TX transformation nestled among the beauty of the trees.
These Round Rock, TX homeowners have one of the most beautifully lush backyards. Being able to incorporate an outdoor living structures within this backyard could seem like a challenge to some, but not to us. The mingling of the wood and flagstone we used to create this outdoor retreat is mesmerizing set against the beauty of the rush of green in this residence.
This Round Rock, TX pergola is used as a patio cover for the upper portion of the Flagstone patio.
These homeowners had an existing concrete patio that was not serving their needs. Our goal was to extend the patio and pour a whole new facet of enjoyment into their backyard. Our design included a covered patio extension complete with an outdoor kitchen and pergola-style roof and another patio that descends from the covered patio to the new outdoor fireplace.
In designing the master plan to transform this Round Rock, TX backyard into a paradise for the senses we first had to overcome some obstacles. The first challenge was to incorporate all the desired structures into the homeowners minimal backyard and also deal with the small elevated back porch. The design we decided upon that would work best was to actually create two structures out of one area by extending the small space to make it larger and adding another space to serve as the focal point for the outdoor fireplace.
We designed an extension of the existing concrete patio and added stone over the top of the concrete for seamless design. We then added the pergola with an extension as well over the patio and added a little slope to compensate for the existing patio being so high. The small round patio located in the design accents the large outdoor fireplace located at the corner. We used a round design for the patio and continued the curved design feature into the fireplace’s eyebrow and hearth.
The medium we chose to cover the patios with is gorgeous Oklahoma flagstone in buff peach. We also used block stone in the design using Autumn blend block stone. The element of the two separate stones working together along with the cedar pergola and the trees on the property is truly breathtaking.
Archadeck of Austin custom designed this cedar cabinet located above the mantel of this outdoor fireplace to safely and efficiently house a TV.
The outdoor kitchen is located inside the patio cover and includes a grill, refrigerator and plenty of electrical outlets. The countertops are finished out with a very nice tile that compliments the homes brick colors. The rustic outdoor fireplace is graciously equipped with custom cedar cabinets above the firebox made especially for housing a television and keeping it safe and dry from the elements.
These Round Rock, TX homeowners couldn’t be more thrilled with the transformation, they say it feels as though they have a whole new backyard. We can create a stunning transformation of your back yard as well, contact Archadeck of Austin to learn more (512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
Here is a slideshow of this Round Rock, TX backyard oasis that is a feast for the senses….
To see more stunning inspiration of outdoor structure designs visit our photo galleries
Jim Odom, Archadeck of Austin
For more design inspiration visit our Patio photo gallery
Visit our Outdoor kitchens photo gallery for yummy designs in outdoor kitchens
Archadeck of Austin Takes us on a Tour of Flagstone
Beautiful flagstone outdoor fireplace by Archadeck of austin
Here in the Austin area flagstone is quite popular. We have been using it in a variance of structures, from patios to pathways, flagstone has a rustic elegance about it that can’t be found in any other medium. Here at Archadeck of Austin each of our clients get their own design rendering. These design renderings are never used again, so the structure you get from us, is yours and yours alone. Since flagstone is 100% natural since it is cut from the earth, every piece of flagstone is different as well. No two flagstone projects will be the alike because no two pieces of flagstone are identical.
This outdoor bar has a unique design that looks great in flagstone
Deciding which flagstone to use can be a difficult decision because of all the different types, colors and patterns of flagstone there are to choose from. We want this daunting task of selecting the type and color to be a little easier for you and hopefully after you have reviewed this blog, you will have a little better idea of the basics of flagstone selections. When talking about natural stone such as flagstone there are words that are used to describe certain attributes of the stone itself such as undulation which are natural wavelike bends, curves and elevation differences you can see and feel throughout the stone. Veining refers to a pattern or natural markings that are visible in the stone. Swirling means any curving, twisting line or shape visible naturally within the stone.
The Oklahoma family of Flagstone
Oklahoma Buff Peach flagstone patio in Austin TX
Oklahoma buff peach is a very popular color. Customers choose this color frequently with its subtle pleasing tones. The variation in the tones of Oklahoma buff peach can vary from peach tones, taupe tones and even gray tones.The surface tends to be smoother and not have as much undulation as some of the other Oklahoma’s.
Oklahoma chocolate gold flagstone, notice the undulation in this photo
Other Oklahoma flagstones include the dazzling Chocolate gold, which has quite a bit of undulation and veining. The veining of this flagstone gives it a rich, robust feel. Variances in Oklahoma Chocolate gold can be deep browns, to gray and of course the gold hues as well.
Oklahoma taupe is another favorite of ours. It has a fair amount of undulation but a more neutral feel. It conveys variation of taupe, light gray and earthy browns. This color works well with a lot of different mediums.
Oklahoma silver mist
Then you have Oklahoma Silver mist. The name itself gives it away. It has a silvery-misty sort of look to it. Color varies from darker grays to light silver, and slight blue undertones.
The Arizona family of flagstone
The Arizona flagstones tend to be more of a sandstone type of stone. They have a Smoother surfacing with less undulation. Not as bumpy as your Oklahoma’s. They have a sandier , flatter look to them.
Arizona buckskin flagstone
Arizona buckskin is a good neutral flagstone. Neutral does not mean boring in the case of this flagstone though. When I look at this color I am reminded of a buckskin horse. This color can only be achieved through mother nature. It is rustic, yet elegant, tough yet soft. The natural pigment of the earth is apparent in the hue. It works well with many mediums.
Arizona rose flagstone
Then there is the beautiful Arizona Rose flagstone. Here in Texas and beyond this is a much coveted color. Arizona Rose is best described as a light brick-red, with natural pink variations and gray undertones. It reminds me of ethnic pottery or the color of the sky right before it disappears into the horizon on a hot Texas night. Even with the entwining of rose and pink variations, this is a great neutral color that will work well with gray all the way to dark brown. Any color where you have gray or brown undertones will only enhance the beauty of Arizona Rose flagstone.
The Mexican family of flagstone
Flagstone patio done in Mexican rosewood
Last but certainly not least we have the Mexican flagstones. This flagstone has a lot of variation in color and movement throughout the stone such as veining and swirling. It is a work of art in itself. As with any flagstone each piece is different, but the beautiful degree of variation in Mexican flagstone makes it a joy to look at.
Mexican Rosewood is probably the finest example of the Mexican flagstones. This color has the hints of terra-cotta you would expect from Mexican pottery, but with variations and swirls of peaches, reds and pinks. Truly original and truly lovely.
Whether you are ready to build your flagstone patio or are just in the decision stages, Archadeck of Austin can help plan, design and build the flagstone structure you’ve been yearning for. We have years of experience building with flagstone and our design staff can help you decide on the flagstone that is right for you. Contact us today to find out more. Call (512) 259-8282 or email us at austin@archadeck.net
Oklahoma flagstone patios in Austin TX
Oklahoma Chocolate Gold Flagstone
If you live in the Austin area, you’ll see flagstone patios everywhere. They’re tremendously popular in this area for several reasons. First, they’re very attractive and have a very natural look which compliments that Austin landscape. The stone has a nice rustic feel and also adds subtle depth and texture to your patio.
Cement patios are also very popular right now with stain & stamp and stain & score. All of these concrete styles are very nice but just have a different feel. The feel of the stained concrete will depend largely on the stain color. Darker colors may often look more formal. There are hundreds of patterns and textures you can achieve with stain and stamp. In this scenario, the concrete is stamped to add a pattern that’s either just attractive to look at or a pattern designed to mimic a more natural look – perhaps the look of natural stone.
When looking at flagstone, it’s a great way to finish an existing cement patio or a great finish for a new patio you’re building. With our Archadeck customers, it’s always a popular request. We mainly work with flagstone from Oklahoma, Arizona and Mexico. The Oklahoma Buff Peach is one of our favorite flagstones to work with. The flagstone surface tends to be a smoother and flatter finish than some of the other Oklahomas – not as much undulation. The colors tend to blend with pretty much anything. The top surface tends to also be more consistent. This is important when looking at flagstone. Some of the other colors or varieties can have a more undulating surface which looks beautiful and natural but can be tougher to put your furniture on. Of, if you use it for the top of your bar, it may be tougher to place table settings on.
Some of the other Oklahoma flagstone colors we work with are Arizona Taupe which is similar to Oklahoma Buff Peach but is a little more subtle with all the shades leaning more toward the taupe hues. We also work with Oklahoma Silver Mist flagstone. It also is more subtle because the hues of the various stones all lean more toward gray. But in both the Oklahoma Silver Mist and Oklahoma taupe, you still have that nice unique variety of colors that complement each other and make your patio interesting and one-of-a-kind.
Your one-of-a-kind patio
We like to think that all of our project are one-of-a-kind from a design perspective. And, in reality they are. We never use the same project design twice. Every single customer gets their own rendering, their own architectural plans, and more. Every back yard is different and every family is different in terms of how they want to live in their back yard. What’s nice about flagstone is that every patio is one-of-a-kind. Flagstone is 100% natural and cut from the earth. It is not manufactured so no two stones are completely alike. So not only will the design of your project be one-of-a-kind, but your patio colors and stones are also.
The many colors of Oklahoma Buff Peach
Oklahoma Buff Peach is tremendously popular as I said above. We probably use this more than the other colors. The colors in this group are very subtle and pleasing but they also have enough variety to be interesting and unique. The hues include subtle peach tones, subtle taupe tones and even some subtle gray tones. Here are some pictures from our actual patios to show you the interesting color variations of the natural stone.
Oklahoma Buff Peach flagstone patio adjoining tigerwood deck
Perhaps it’s because this patio above adjoins a richly colored Tigerwood deck, the variation from this stone lot looks more subtle than the next two pictures.
Oklahoma Buff Peach flagstone patio in Austin TX
This patio above uses the same flagstone color and you can see a more chocolate shade and darker taupes in addition to a lighter, whiter shade.
Oklahoma Buff Peach flagstone patio in Austin, TX
In this picture above, there are a bunch of more shades toward the taupe end of the spectrum as well as some darker peach hues.
Here’s another Oklahoma Chocolate Gold patio that’s screened in with some detail about flagstone finishes.
Wes Vann, Archadeck of Austin
You can tell I am passionate about building with flagstone. Let me know if you have any questions about flagstone. Either use the comments section here, give me a call (512) 259 – 8282 or drop me an email wvann@archadeck.net.
Flagstone Patios in Austin
Two of our most popular flagstone colors - Oklahoma Buff Peach and Oklahoma Chocolate Gold
Guest post by Wes Vann
We build a lot of flagstone patios. I think they’re popular because they have such a nice, natural rustic look, but they’re a hearty stone and stand the test of time. We work with a lot of colors but recently one of the colors that a lot of customers seem to gravitate to is Oklahoma Buff Peach. Flagstone is a naturally occurring stone so that adds to the natural feel. The naming of the colors represents two things. First, you will note that state name in the color. That really does indicate where it is sourced from. The rest of the color name represents the overall color impression and the variety. For example, Oklahoma buff peach is subtle with a lot of buff and taupe tones. On the other side of the range is a mild peach tone. You can imagine that the shades in between make for a very subtle combination.
Another really hot one right now is Oklahoma Chocolate Gold. This brings to mind very rich variations of stone color from a deep brown to the golden warm colors. The shade shown on the right above is the chocolate gold. You’re seeing a close-up there so here is a look from a little bit farther away so you can see how the color combination blends from chocolate to gold.
Here are some other popular colors right now:
- Oklahoma Taupe flagstone
- Arizona Buckskin Beige
- Arizona Classic Oak
- Arizona Rosa
- Mexican Rosewood
- Mexican Cafe
- Mexican Midnight Iris
Please send along questions or comments or thoughts. I love working with flagstone and love talking about ideas for building using flagstone.
Austin Decks, Pergolas, Covered Patios, Porches, more 