How To Install Stone Carpet Flooring For Your Outdoor Space

There is so much to think about while selecting the material for your pool deck, patio, or garden path. Stone carpet flooring is a great way to add a smooth, walkable surface to the outdoor charm of natural pebbles. This unique material uses small stones with a polyurethane binder — a type of resin — to create a textured finish that's both slip-resistant and beautiful. 

Before diving into your project, check out your current outdoor surface. It should be load-bearing, completely dry, and free of dirt or old sealants. A concrete slab or sturdy wooden deck work best; avoid surfaces that might shift or crack. For tools, you need a mixing bucket, scale, smoothing trowel, cordless drill with stir attachment, paint roller, nitrile gloves, and some sort of edge trim pieces such as aluminum or PVC strips. You also need a polyurethane primer, which helps adhere the stone mixture to your surface. Finally, pick the best landscaping gravel for a smooth, natural look that fits your space.

Proper preparation is key for long-lasting results, so start by cleaning the original surface thoroughly. Pressure washing helps remove debris; just make sure to give the ground time to dry completely. Next, apply the primer evenly with a roller. Primer times can vary, so be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions and give your primer enough time to settle. While it cures, you can lay out the edge pieces to create clean lines and prevent the stone mixture from spilling over.

Once the primer has completely set, it's time to mix and add the stone carpet. Combine the stones with the polyurethane binder following the manufacturer's ratio and using the drill stirrer – if you want to get creative, experiment with different colored stones or patterns prior to mixing. Pour the mix onto your surface, working in small sections to prevent the mixture from hardening prematurely, and spread it immediately with a smoothing trowel, keeping it about ⅓-inch thick. A squeegee helps level the stones out and a small spray bottle of soapy water can help reduce the stickiness.

After the initial layer cures, apply a polyurethane filler to seal the surface, locking in the stones and adding an extra protective layer. Spread the filler on top, using your squeegee again to wipe away the excess and make a smooth finish. This step is extra-important for areas that have high moisture, including pool decks, since the sealer adds another layer of water-resistance. Unlike natural stone flooring that you might regret, these stone carpets are much easier to take care of since the polyurethane layers help keep dirt on the surface level; a simple hosing once or twice a year suffices. After it's all installed, wait at least 48 hours before you allow any foot traffic, then enjoy your new stone carpet flooring.