Creating a Flagstone Sitting Area on a Slope

Backyard Flagstone Patio with Retaining Wall

For a 10x20-foot sloped area beside a new stockade fence, a flagstone sitting area with a low retaining wall is an excellent plan. Here's how to execute it:

Excavation & Grading

Use a grub hoe (a heavy, wide-bladed hoe) to "peel" soil evenly across the slope, establishing a level base. Work from one side to the other, checking level frequently. The goal is a firm, uniformly graded sub-base that slopes slightly away from the fence for drainage.

Retaining Wall

Build a dry-stacked or mortared stone wall at the fence line to hold back the slope. Ensure the wall has weep holes or gravel backfill for drainage.

Flagstone Installation

Lay stones on a 2-inch bed of compacted stone dust or coarse sand. Adjust each stone for stability; fill joints with polymeric sand or more stone dust. A slight crown (center higher than edges) prevents water pooling.

Design Enhancement

Soften the rigid fence line by letting adjacent planting beds "swing out" into the lawn area, creating layered views between the house and patio.