Stepping Stone Base: Sand Does Not Attract Ants

Homeowner has a 4×8 ft bare spot off deck. Wants stepping stones. Told sand base attracts ants. Asks for alternative.

Sand Is Fine—Ants Don't Care

Ants nest under stones for protection and moisture, not for sand. They'll nest under any paver on any base. Sand is the correct setting bed for stepping stones: forgiving, drains, easy to level.

Proper Installation

1. Excavate 4–6 inches.
2. Compact subgrade.
3. 4 inch compacted gravel base (CR-6 or similar).
4. 1 inch concrete sand (coarse, not play sand).
5. Set stones, level, tap.
6. Sweep polymeric sand or stone dust into joints.

Ant Prevention

If ants appear, treat nests directly (bait, diatomaceous earth). Base material is irrelevant.

Expert: Sean J. Murphy | www.seanjmurphy.com