Building On Level Ground: Step-By-Step Tips For Making The Most Of A Flat Lot

Still, there’s something rewarding about making those mismatched pieces work together... kind of like a puzzle you get to walk on.

That’s exactly how I felt laying out our patio stones. Took forever to get them to sit flat - every time I thought it was level, I’d step on one and it would rock. The “puzzle” part is fun, but man, my knees were sore for days. The random colors actually grew on me too. Didn’t expect that.

Honestly, I get the appeal of that “puzzle” feeling, but after redoing my own walkway last summer, I’m not convinced it’s worth the hassle. I spent hours fussing with those stones - leveling, shifting, then leveling again. Even with a supposedly flat lot, there were always little dips or bumps I missed. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d rather have gone with uniform pavers and saved myself the headache.

That said, I’ll admit the mismatched look does grow on you. At first, I thought it would drive me nuts seeing all those different shades and shapes, but now it actually looks more natural than the cookie-cutter patios you see everywhere. Still, if I ever do it again, I’m renting knee pads and maybe bribing a friend to help... knees just aren’t what they used to be.

Even with a supposedly flat lot, there were always little dips or bumps I missed.

Funny how “flat” never really means flat, right? I actually like working with the irregular stones - yeah, it’s more work, but I think the imperfections add character. Uniform pavers are easier, but sometimes they just look too sterile for my taste. Knees definitely take a beating either way... knee pads are a must.

Funny how “flat” never really means flat, right?

That’s been my experience too - what looks level at first glance always hides a few surprises. I’m with you on the irregular stones. There’s something satisfying about making them fit together, even if it’s a bit of a puzzle. Have you ever tried mixing different types of stone for more contrast, or do you stick with one kind? I’ve found mixing can look great, but it’s definitely more challenging to get everything to sit right.

Have you ever tried mixing different types of stone for more contrast, or do you stick with one kind?

Mixing stones is definitely worth the extra effort, in my opinion. The contrast really makes things pop, and it feels less “cookie-cutter.” I’ll admit, it can be a pain to get everything to sit flush - especially if you’re dealing with different thicknesses - but the end result is so much more interesting. I’d rather spend a little more time up front than look at a bland patio for years. Just gotta have patience and a good rubber mallet...