Here’s a detailed guide for preparing an area for laying sandstone paving in the UK, covering each stage to help ensure your paving is both durable and looks great.

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Step 1: Planning and Design

1. Measure the Area: Measure the area you intend to pave, considering the layout and allowing a bit of extra space for cutting if needed.
2. Select Your Sandstone: Choose sandstone of a thickness suitable for your needs. Generally, 22mm or thicker is recommended for durability.
3. Plan Drainage: UK weather can bring heavy rain, so plan for good drainage by ensuring a slight slope (about 1:80) away from buildings or into drainage channels.

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Step 2: Gather Your Materials

You’ll need:

• Sandstone slabs
• String line, stakes, and a level
• MOT Type 1 sub-base (compacted hardcore)
• Sharp sand
• Cement
• Jointing compound (optional but recommended for longevity)
• Tools: Shovel, wheelbarrow, rubber mallet, bucket, measuring tape, spirit level, and a whacker plate (for compacting the base)

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Step 3: Prepare the Area

1. Mark Out the Area: Use string lines and stakes to outline the area. Ensure straight edges and clear boundaries for accuracy.
2. Excavate: Dig down to a depth that accommodates both the sub-base (usually 100-150mm) and the paving slab thickness (about 30-50mm). Ensure you reach a firm, solid layer of soil, which will help prevent sinking or shifting.
3. Check Levels: Use a spirit level to confirm a slight slope for drainage. You don’t want water pooling on or near the paving.

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Step 4: Install the Sub-Base

1. Lay MOT Type 1: Spread a layer of MOT Type 1 hardcore across the excavated area. This layer should be around 100mm thick for pedestrian areas or 150mm for driveways or heavy loads.
2. Compact the Sub-Base: Use a whacker plate to compress the sub-base until it is firm and level. Compact in layers if necessary, especially for thicker bases. Proper compaction is essential for durability.
3. Check Levels and Slope Again: Ensure the slope for drainage is still maintained after compacting. Make adjustments as needed by adding or removing material.

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Step 5: Prepare the Bedding Layer

1. Mix Mortar: Prepare a mortar mix of 4 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement. Add water gradually to achieve a damp consistency; it should hold its shape but not be overly wet.
2. Lay the Mortar Bed: Spread a 30-50mm layer of mortar mix over the compacted base, working in sections to avoid it drying out before you lay the paving.
3. Check Thickness: Ensure the bedding layer is even and thick enough to support the sandstone slabs. Adjust as necessary to maintain consistent thickness.

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Step 6: Lay the Sandstone Slabs

1. Position Each Slab Carefully: Place each slab on the mortar bed, starting from one corner and working across. Use spacers to keep consistent joint widths if desired.
2. Tap Down with a Rubber Mallet: Lightly tap the slab with a rubber mallet to bed it into the mortar and ensure a solid connection.
3. Check Levels Continuously: Use a spirit level to ensure each slab is level with the neighboring slabs and maintains the overall slope.
4. Adjust as Necessary: Add or remove a bit of mortar underneath each slab to achieve a level finish and consistent height.

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Step 7: Jointing the Paving

Once the slabs are in place and the mortar has partially set (usually 24 hours later):

1. Prepare Jointing Compound: Use a jointing compound for a flexible and weather-resistant finish, or mix sand and cement (4:1 ratio) for a traditional mortar joint. Damp jointing mix is often best for outdoor applications in the UK.
2. Apply the Jointing Material: Fill the joints between slabs using a pointing trowel or squeegee, pushing the compound firmly to avoid gaps or cracks.
3. Smooth and Clean: Smooth the joints with a pointing trowel for a tidy finish, wiping off any excess from the slabs as you go.

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Step 8: Curing and Final Checks

1. Allow to Cure: Let the paving cure for a few days, ideally keeping it dry if possible to avoid the mortar washing out.
2. Avoid Heavy Loads: Keep traffic off the paving for at least 3-4 days (longer in damp conditions) to allow the mortar to fully set.
3. Final Clean-Up: Once the mortar is set, sweep the area clean and rinse lightly if necessary.

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Additional Tips

• Weather Conditions: Aim to lay the paving on a dry day with a mild temperature, avoiding freezing or very wet conditions.
• Sealing (Optional): Consider sealing sandstone to protect against stains and moss. Use a breathable sealer suited to natural stone.
• Maintenance: Regularly sweep the paved area to remove debris and prevent moss growth, especially in shaded or damp areas.

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Following these steps will provide a stable, long-lasting base for your sandstone paving, ready to endure UK weather and look great for years to come!