Not Concrete, Not Porcelain: The Versatile Material For Budget-Friendly Pavers

The initial excitement of sprucing up your outdoor landscape with pavers can be dampened by the thought of just how much it will cost you. From hiring professional labor to buying the pavers themselves plus all the extra materials, the numbers quickly add up. Unless you're interested in trying some DIY paver projects to elevate your yard, the other way to keep expenses low is to select more affordable materials. Instead of going the popular concrete paver route or choosing sleek, modern porcelain, try meshed flagstone, also known as mounted flagstone or flagmat. This hardscaping material is made up of pieces of flagstone attached to a mesh backing. It's a great alternative to concrete or porcelain pavers thanks to its versatility, and there are a number of low-cost options on the market. In the long run, meshed flagstone might also save you money because it lasts longer and requires less maintenance.

While it could never really go out of style, flagstone paving is making a comeback. Flagstone itself is a natural stone product that comes from sedimentary rocks. It forms over thousands of years and sports a distinctive irregular shape that's rather striking. Beyond the aesthetics and faster installation, meshed flagstone is also eco–friendly, since it has a lower carbon footprint that concrete and it's a natural material that can degrade safely back the earth.

What makes meshed flagstone so versatile as a paving solution is the wide variety it comes in. The flagstone pieces are cut into shape either by hand or using machines. You can find meshed flagstone in multiple designs, patterns, sizes, and color shades, with both rugged aesthetics and smooth planes. One sheet of meshed flagstone usually has about six or seven stone pieces, all pre-arranged on a plastic mesh backing. Each sheet will vary slightly, but they're designed to fit together, making the pavers easier and quicker to install. You can cover ground much faster compared to concrete, porcelain, or single flagstone pavers that need to be installed one by one.

Meshed flagstone can go almost anywhere; use it for outdoor flooring on walkways, garden paths, and patios. It can also go vertical to make accent walls, firepits, stairs, and more. Flagstone is one of the best natural stones for a retaining wall that adds privacy to your yard. However, it's important for meshed flagstone to adhere to a solid sub-base with mortar, so it's best laid on top of existing concrete or cinder blocks. 

Lastly, meshed flagstone behaves differently than pavers. It has a natural rustic charm and isn't affected by heat or sunlight like concrete. Moreover, because of its rough surface and slightly uneven edges, it doesn't become slippery when wet, which makes it safe to use in areas such as the pool deck, an outdoor shower, or outdoor kitchens.

While it may not be super well-known, getting your hands on meshed flagstone isn't difficult. You can often source it from local landscape suppliers or buy from larger retailers. The cost per piece varies widely, ranging around $3 to $15 per square foot, but there are plenty of options on the more affordable or mid-range end. For example, these WonderLand 24-inch by 18-inch Irregular Golden White Mesh-Mounted Pavers from Lowe's are $6.96 per square foot. It might not be the most affordable hardscaping option on earth, but you can certainly use it to achieve a high-end look for less. 

What's more, you might be able to save a tidy sum of money if you decide to install the meshed flagstone by yourself, since this would cut off any labor fees. If you do hire a professional, they often charge by the hour, so the speedy, puzzle-like mesh flagstone can still be cheaper than laying pavers out piece-by-piece.

While concrete and porcelain tend to crack and fade with extreme weather and UV exposure, meshed flagstone retains its looks and durability over the years and only requires moderate upkeep in terms of cleaning. Concrete pavers last only 25 to 50 years while porcelain pavers may last just over 25 years. In comparison, flagstone can hold up for well 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Consider sealing your meshed flagstone every two to three years to extend its longevity by preventing stains and moisture penetration. Your meshed flagstone could make up for the initial investment with long service.