Installation Instructions
If you will be installing GraniteCrete for the first time—or it has been over 1 year since you last installed GraniteCrete—it is essential that you call us at 1 (800) 670-0849. GraniteCrete representatives will be on-site for the installation at no cost as part of our Quality Assurance Program.
Please review our guide: GraniteCrete Pre-installation Checklist.
Full installation instructions are available in the Spanish language here: Instrucciones para la instalación – Método “seco”
When GraniteCrete is installed correctly, there is no better surfacing solution for your landscaping project. GraniteCrete excels in appearance, durability and permeability – it performs like no other paving solution! To get the best out of GraniteCrete, it is important to follow the installation instructions on this page carefully from the start – putting in the base rock – to the finish – curing GraniteCrete.
The installation of GraniteCrete is a unique process. While not difficult, it is different from installing either loose decomposed granite or concrete. This page explains the process for installing GraniteCrete. To the right is a video that will show you the steps for installing GraniteCrete, and below is a detailed set of written instructions. You can also download the instructions to print them out.
Step 1. Install and compact the base rock
Moisten and compact base rock on entire installation area to an even depth of 4-inch or 6-inch, depending on residential or commercial application.
A vibratory plate can be used to compact the base rock; it should not be used to compact the GraniteCrete.
Step 2. Place dry mixture at the installation site
Step 3. Moisten and mix simultaneously
Lightly moisten the material with a hose end trigger sprayer attachment; avoiding puddling. Rake area lightly to evenly distribute water throughout the mix.
Install second layer as above and screed at one inch above finish grade; when doing this, make sure to pay particular attention to the edges to ensure even material height, and lightly mist to dampen mixture.
Mist until both layers are damp. Proper moisture is achieved when clenching your fist with the mixture it stays compacted and the color can be seen on your hands.
Step 4. Initial compaction, with close attention paid to edges and corners
After optimum moisture content is achieved for compaction, initial compaction can be performed by walking on the edges and corners, and through use of a 6” wooden masonry float, a 10” hand tamp, or a 36” water-filled lawn roller.
Pay particular attention to corners and edges to ensure tight compaction.
Make sure to keep all tools clean at all times.
Step 5. Finish
Remove final imperfections and/or add texture with a medium-bristled broom before final compaction with a lawn roller. If desired, lightly pass a medium-bristled broom over the surface to remove any slight imperfections, and then roll several times with a water-filled 36” lawn roller.
With larger installations, a 36″ lawn roller less than one ton in static position can be used.
Make sure with both applications, the drums are kept clean at all times. Be sure to remove the spoils off the finished surface.
Step 6. Mist and Cure
Using a hose end trigger sprayer attachment, moisten the entire newly-installed GraniteCrete area – avoid puddling.
To discourage cracking, moisten newly-installed GraniteCrete on a daily basis, as practical.
Slow curing of GraniteCrete is important to avoid cracking.
If the installation will take longer than one day, cold joints can be used at the end of the work day. Examples of cold joints are shown here and here.
Cold Joint Methods
Method One:
1. “Between pours,” stop at an area that makes the joint location look intentional. Take a chalk snap line just back from loose GraniteCrete into the compacted area and create a chalk line. Use either a masonry blade – or a square-nose shovel – and cut a straight line across the installation.
2. Continue with installation. Place newly mixed GraniteCrete into area, being careful not to overlap existing compacted material. With a concrete trowel or similar tool, tamp the new material at a tapered, 45 degree angle 1” above the finished grade and compact. If necessary, “feather” in with a medium-bristled broom.
Method Two:
1. Place a 2”X4” or 2”X6 piece of wood across the installation, stake it, and finish compacting the material. Leave the board in place overnight.
2. The next day, carefully lift the wood up and away from the installed GraniteCrete. Continue the installation process as per step 2 under Method One.
Method Three: (Suggested for large open edges at the end of the work day
1. Install steel edging at a location that looks “intentional” and aesthetically “makes sense. Permanently install using the stakes provided. Completely finish the first days work.
2. The next day, simply continue with the installation. Leave the edging in place. Again, being careful not to leave any new material on the previously installed GraniteCrete.
GraniteCrete, Inc. installation recommendations represent a typical installation and generally accepted installation practices should be followed. Use of trained installation professionals is recommended for best results. GraniteCrete, Inc. does not warrant any installation work and specifically disclaims any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. GraniteCrete, Inc. is not liable for any costs or expenses to fix, repair or redo any installation, or direct or indirect personal injury, property damage or other costs or losses resulting from the improper or incorrect application or installation of the GraniteCrete™ product. GraniteCrete™ and The Natural Path™ are both registered trademarks of GraniteCrete, Inc.
