Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
At Forge paving centre, we supply an extensive range of exterior porcelain, Indian sandstone, Indian limestone, granite as well as decorative stone.
We also carry a wide range of ground and grouting products from leading suppliers such as Joint Tec and Botament.
One tonne will cover approximately 13sq mtrs at 40mm (1 ½ inches) depth or one tonne will cover approx 10sq mtrs at 50mm (2 inches) depth.
On a new shrub bed…
- Edge the shape of the shrub bed required.
- Spray off the area with a herbicide (Weed killer).
- Lay down some weed barrier (Mypex).
- Spread your chosen decorative stone to cover the Mypex as this will keep it in place.
- Place your shrubs out and cut an X through the Mypex and plant.
On a driveway/path…
- Spread hardcore (804) across your drive making sure to spend time getting your levels correct.
- Compact the 804 with a whacker or vibrating roller.
- Add the decorative stone to approx 40mm depth using a rake to level evenly.
Natural stone paving is laid on a mortar bed (Sand & Cement mix). Concrete paving slabs or bricks are normally laid on coarse grit sand.
- Firstly you need to have a compacted base.
- Mix the mortar at a ratio of 5/6 part sand to 1 part cement.
- Trowel the mortar on the compacted ground and lay the paving slabs on the mortar bed to your desired level. Some of our Indian sandstone comes calibrated which means it is cut to an even thickness therefore leaving it easier to lay.
- Once completed grout your paved area with a jointing compound (grouting product).
There are different products available as well as different pointing techniques from the old fashioned sand and cement mix to the more popular pointing products on the market like Joint Tec and Botament. These products are considered to be clean and DIY friendly. The issues that may arise with sand and cement are unsightly staining on your completed paving. We would recommend using jointing compound for this reason.
Keep the area free of debris. Use a pressure washer once or twice a year and treat the area with an algaecide like Patio Wizard or Moss Buster. Patio and sandstone cleaners are also available from Forge Paving Centre.
No, however sealing products can help with regard to maintaining your patio or paving. We stock a wide variety of sealing products which can enhance your area and reduce the frequencies of power washing etc.