How can I move flagstone easier?

by Hillary Schatz
(Fort Worth, TX)

Hello Flagstone Experts!

First of all, thank you so much for your wonderful website.
I've learned so much.

My question involves moving stone: My husband and I would
like to attempt a flagstone pathway ourselves, but it would include
carrying flagstone pieces about 100 yds to the "final resting spot" in the
garden!
We like the look of larger pieces (about 24-30").

I'd like your advice on how two people (my 115 lb self and my husband)
could effectively carry or transport the large stone.
(over uneven, tree covered terrain where motorized vehicles can't get
to.)

Any ideas?

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration,
Hillary Schatz

hillaryschatz@hotmail.com

Comments for
How can I move flagstone easier?

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moving stones
by: Ross

Hi Hillary & Dave:
Try this web site for a metal cart with a 1000 lb capacity. This is how I move the stones and I am sure it will help you. This is a long link after .html? the utm_source line is up against the html? Let me know if you have any problems.

Ross

http://www.harborfreight.com/steel-mesh-deck-wagon-38137.html?utm_source=retail&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=1411a

Dolly
by: Peter

I've been installing flagstone patios and walkways for a lot of years. The best method we have, for getting the stone closer to where you are working is on some form of dolly (or two wheel "hand truck", tree cart or other). The larger stones can be stood on end, the smaller stones can be stacked or set on edge with several per trip. The only word of caution is to remember to put most of the weight down low. For the sizes you are speaking of, this method should work fairly well for you. 2 wheel dollies can be purchased or rented. Be sure to use one with tires that are air filled, as the smaller, solid tires may make your job more difficult, rather than easier. Good Luck.

wagon for flagstone
by: David

Hi Ross,

Thanks for the suggestion. If you ever build one that could help masons, let me know.

I'll put pictures of it on the site and I bet you could get some sales.

Take care,

David

USE A WAGON
by: Ross

Dear Hillary:
You mentioned a common problem. I use a pull wagon that in most cases is what kids play with. If you had alot to do and have a welder friend, have him make up a steel wagon it works great as smaller pieces can be stacked on it but if you have a large piece it can be laid flat. If you have to go thru a narrow gate, put it standing on its side until you pass thru narrow spot. It will take two of you though . Remember flagstone is heavy so try not to overload the wagon.
Ross

great question
by: David

Dear Hillary,

Thanks for the comment! My dad is almost 80 and he is so happy that his knowledge can help people with their landscaping ideas.

I really don't know of an easier way for carrying stone. We still have to lug the big "monsters" the old fashion way. (I helped my dad with a job last summer that almost broke my back.)

You might want to pay a teenager a few bucks to carry the stone closer to where you want to set the stone. After that, you and your husband will probably have to place the stone where you want them.

Sorry I couldn't give you a better answer. If you invent something that would carry stone, then you could become very wealthy.

Great luck with your project!

David

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