How to lay natural stone outdoor paving?
There are three laying methods for your natural stone outdoor paving, ensuring durability, aesthetics, and performance. Each method is adapted to different types of surfaces and the specific requirements of your project, depending on its constraints.
1) Bonded laying according to DTU 52.1
Bonded laying is ideal for ensuring maximum stability and optimal aging of your paving. It is carried out using a bonding mortar compliant with NF DTU 52.1. To ensure the longevity of the installation, it is essential that the mortar has a minimum thickness of 50 mm, or even more depending on the stresses.
Minéral Pierre Naturelle's advice:
We recommend using a draining mortar composed of cement and 3-6 aggregate, which is more effective than traditional cement and sand mortar (03 or 0/15). This improves the stability and durability of the surfacing. To ensure good adhesion between the slab and the mortar, it is advisable to apply a slurry (liquid cement) or a product like Murex's Haftshenn, which offers better grip and a longer working time.
Substrate preparation:
Ensure that the concrete slab has a slope of 15 mm. If not, it is recommended to create a "leveling screed" with a specific adhesive. To ensure waterproofing and prevent moisture under the paving, the use of a drainage mat is strongly advised.
Important characteristics:
- Joints with a minimum width of 5 mm.
- Perimeter joints against walls of at least 10 mm.
- Expansion joints every 20 m² or every 5 linear meters.
- Substrate drying before laying: 2 to 6 months.
2) Bonded laying according to DTU 52.2
Bonded laying is carried out with an adhesive product compliant with NF DTU 52.2. This type of laying is particularly suitable when a concrete substrate is already in place and ready to receive the surfacing.
Minéral Pierre Naturelle's advice:
We recommend using a draining cement and 3-6 aggregate mortar for better stability, rather than traditional cement and sand. It is crucial to check that the screed has a slope of at least 15 mm per meter. If not, a leveling screed must be applied. Use a C2 type tile adhesive, such as Ardex X77, specifically designed for natural stone.
Advantages:
Bonded laying simplifies the process by eliminating the screed step while ensuring a stable and solid installation. However, it is recommended to use it only for small surfaces or when the thickness of the substrate does not allow for a screed.
Important characteristics:
- Joints with a minimum width of 5 mm.
- Perimeter joints of at least 10 mm.
- Expansion joints every 20 m² or every 5 linear meters.
- Substrate drying before laying: 2 to 6 months.
3) Laying on sand or gravel
Laying on sand or gravel is a simple and economical method. It is ideal for temporary installations or when the budget is limited.
Minéral Pierre Naturelle's advice:
To ensure good stability, it is recommended to use 3/6 gravel, which is more stable and draining than traditional sand. This method is less stable than laying on a screed, which is why it is necessary to surround the paving with pavers or borders.
Joints and maintenance:
Joints can be made of sand, but it is preferable to use a polymer sand and resin joint such as PCI 1K or 2K. This type of joint is easy to maintain, remains flexible and durable while allowing effective drainage.
Important characteristics:
- For joints of at least 5 mm.
- PCI 1K (single-component) is ideal for simpler use, while PCI 2K (two-component) is more effective for trafficked surfaces.
Why choose Minéral Pierre Naturelle for your outdoor paving installation?
At Minéral Pierre Naturelle, we make it a point of honor to provide you with solutions adapted to your needs, whether you are looking for a classic or custom installation. Our materials are carefully selected to guarantee optimal performance and a durable aesthetic appearance. Furthermore, our expertise in laying methods ensures a perfect installation, respecting the strictest standards for an impeccable finish.
Need advice or a personalized quote?
Contact our team to discover the laying method that best suits your project.
