The average cost to install a flagstone patio is $4,500
Installing a flagstone patio costs most homeowners between $750 and $8,400.
The location, size, stone type, quality, and local labor rates are the most significant factors that affect your final bill.
A professionally installed, high-quality flagstone patio not only enhances curb appeal but also increases property value.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
On average, homeowners spend between $750 and $8,400 for a 300-square-foot patio, though costs can reach up to $9,000. Location, size, and material quality have the most significant influence on your total price. Planning ahead and hiring an experienced patio installer helps ensure a successful installation and maximizes your return on investment.
The average cost to install a flagstone patio is $15 to $30 per square foot. The table below outlines the cost ranges for flagstone patios, depending on the project's square footage.
Patio Dimensions | Total Square Footage | Average Cost to Install |
---|---|---|
7x7 | 49 | $735–$1,470 |
10x8 | 80 | $1,200–$2,400 |
10x10 | 100 | $1,500–$3,000 |
12x12 | 144 | $2,200–$4,300 |
12x14 | 168 | $2,500–$5,000 |
15x15 | 225 | $3,400–$6,800 |
16x18 | 288 | $4,300–$8,600 |
16x20 | 320 | $4,800–$9,600 |
20x20 | 400 | $6,000–$12,000 |
Keep in mind that some contractors may order additional flagstone because installation can result in waste; the table above doesn’t include additional materials. When you hire a paver or contractor for the installation, ask them how they’ll calculate the amount of flagstone needed.
When calculating your total cost, consider factors such as the type of flagstone selected, design complexity, permit requirements, and the season. These elements can significantly impact the final price of your flagstone patio.
The color and type of flagstone you choose can impact the overall price. Your contractor can discuss the benefits and costs of various flagstones, including the following common types.
Type | Price per Ton |
---|---|
Arizona Flagstone | $200–$450 |
Basalt | $500–$700+ |
Bluestone | $375–$450 |
Colorado Red | $200–$400 |
Flagstone Rock | $400–$500 |
Limestone | $250–$400 |
Quartzite | $400–$450 |
Sandstone | $200–$350 |
Slate | $475–$700 |
Travertine | $800+ |
Using factory-cut stones for a straightforward pattern keeps costs at the lower end. Installers who must trim pieces on-site to meet an intricate design will charge more for the added labor. You may also need to budget for additional flagstone (up to 25% more) because there may be more wasted pieces.
Expect to spend between $1,000 and $4,000 on labor for a local patio installer, depending on local rates and the complexity of the project. Precision cutting and careful placement make this a labor-intensive job, so a seasoned patio pro can handle the details and help you avoid costly errors.
Depending on your location, you may need to obtain a construction permit to add a patio to your project. You can work with your contractor to determine the necessary permits and their associated costs.
If you live in an area with cold winters, patio contractors may charge more during their off-season. Scheduling the work for spring often secures more competitive rates.
Like with the cost of any stone patio, flagstone patio prices can vary dramatically based on the installation method. Dry-laid patios are the easiest to install, resulting in lower labor costs. Expect to pay slightly more for mortar-set installation and significantly more for concrete-set (or wet-laid) flagstone patio installation.
As we examine the flagstone patio cost for each installation method, we will assume a 50-square-foot patio for the low end of the range and a 400-square-foot patio for the high end.
Dry-laying a flagstone patio costs between $1,900 and $4,400 on average. The installation begins with excavating and leveling the area, followed by laying down a base of sand and gravel. Once that’s done, installers cut and fit the stone blocks to create your ideal patio shape. Then, they put grout between the stones to secure them in place and create a beautiful finish.
If you already have a suitable concrete base, a mortar-set flagstone patio costs between $2,000 and $5,000. This method is similar to dry-laid, except the installer uses mortar instead of gravel or sand, which adds more stability and durability to the patio.
A concrete-set (wet-laid) flagstone patio costs between $2,700 and $7,000. The wet installation starts with excavation and leveling of the patio area. Then, the contractor cuts the flagstones to size and does a test fit. After that, the installer mixes and pours four inches of concrete to create the base. They must work quickly to place the stones in the concrete before it sets evenly. Grout goes in between the flagstones at the end to complete your desired look.
Flagstone patios significantly enhance home value by creating a sophisticated outdoor living space that boosts curb appeal. Their elegant, durable design adds both aesthetic charm and functional benefits, contributing to an overall increase in property value. Additionally, these patios are low-maintenance and resistant to pest damage, making them a wise, long-term investment for your home.
While labor is a significant portion of the installation cost, DIY costs can quickly add up when purchasing materials such as flagstone ($4 to $6 per square foot), grout, mortar, sand, gravel, and necessary tools. For a 200-square-foot patio, DIY costs range from $855 to $1,385, provided you have basic tools.
Installing a flagstone patio requires skill and precision, and mistakes can lead to additional expenses. Achieving a level surface and precise stone placement demands expertise. Hiring a professional flagstone patio installer ensures a durable and high-quality result, maximizing your investment.
Connect with a local patio pro to get quotes and ensure the job is done right.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
When cleaning your flagstone patio, begin by gently hosing off loose dirt and debris. Use a mild solution of white vinegar and water or diluted dish soap to scrub the surface with a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using abrasive tools, such as wire brushes, as they can damage the stone’s seal and finish. This careful approach effectively removes mold and grime while preserving the natural beauty of your patio.
Flagstone naturally offers a neutral palette that includes shades of grey, black, red, yellow, brown, and tan, and its inherent color cannot be altered. Choosing varieties like bluestone provides a subtle bluish tint that complements many exterior designs. These natural hues enhance curb appeal and create a refined, timeless look in your outdoor space, ensuring a sophisticated finish with minimal upkeep.
Flagstone for a patio must have a minimum thickness of 1.5 inches to reliably support furniture and foot traffic. Using stone that is two to three inches thick is recommended to ensure lasting durability. The increased thickness prevents cracking under load and enhances long-term performance. Investing in thicker flagstone provides superior stability and resistance to weather conditions, ensuring your outdoor space remains both safe and attractive.
You can paint a flagstone patio by using a high-quality, outdoor elastomeric latex paint designed for heavy foot traffic. Painting not only refreshes the patio’s appearance but also creates a waterproof barrier that protects the stone from damage. Regular reapplication every one to two years maintains its durability and visual appeal, ensuring your patio remains both stylish and well-protected.