Ledgerock Catalogue - Grand River Natural Stone

The Best Water Features to Build with Ledgestone

Grand River Natural Stone — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 15:37:34 +0000

If you’re looking to add a touch of tranquility to your garden or yard, a ledgestone water feature is a great way to do so. In this blog, we’ll explore how ledgestone can be used to build water features and share three showstopping ideas to inspire your next project.

3 Stunning Water Feature Ideas for Your Garden

The Cascading Waterfall

A ledgestone waterfall can add a dramatic and soothing element to your garden or backyard. With its natural, rustic look, ledgestone veneers can be used to create a beautiful waterfall that makes a beautiful focal point in your landscape. Just make sure your structure is properly waterproofed, and your stone sealed for maximum longevity.

The Enchanting Fountain

Natural Stone Coursing, similar to ledgestone but larger individual pieces, can be used to create a unique and eye-catching fountain that can be customized to fit your landscape style. Whether you want a modern, sleek look or a more traditional design, these larger pieces of stone can be shaped, cut, and carved to create the perfect fountain for your space.

The Peaceful Urn or Water Bowl

Ledgestone is a popular style for pre-made water features like bowls and urns. Use them as a single feature in isolation, or in groups to create multi-tiered installations that provide the peaceful bubbling sound of natural water sources. Can be winterized for decoration all year long, just ensure your water is turned off and drained from the features before freezing temperatures arrive.

Get the Supplies You Need Today

At Grand River Natural Stone, we offer a wide selection of ledgestone and other natural stone materials to help you create the perfect water feature for your space. Contact us today to get started on your next project!

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Can Ledgerock Be Used On Retaining Walls? Our Experts Answer

Grand River Natural Stone — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 19:47:04 +0000

Ledgerock is a wonderful option for landscaping, offering natural beauty and durability. Its unique layers and earthy tones can enhance any outdoor space, whether you’re creating a cozy patio, a charming garden path, or stylish coping around a pool. However, it’s important to remember that some uses may not be appropriate. In this blog we evaluate whether ledgerock can be used on retaining walls.

Can Ledgerock be used on retaining walls?

Although not the best choice for structure, ledgerock works perfectly as stone veneer over wire frame work or concrete for your retaining walls. This style of stone is known for its weight and durability, making it suitable for all-weather applications in your garden and yard. Additionally, ledgerock is often cut in uniform shapes, panels, or sizes, making it easy to clad an existing structure with.

Rather than a structural element, consider lederock products for coping, veneering and accessorizing. You’ll need a more sturdy type of stone or block for the functional elements of a retaining wall.

Structural Needs of Retaining Walls

Retaining walls must withstand immense lateral earth pressure, which increases with height and soil saturation. Proper structural integrity begins with a well-engineered foundation—typically a compacted gravel base or reinforced concrete footing—to prevent settling and shifting. Drainage is critical; weep holes, perforated pipes, and granular backfill relieve hydrostatic pressure that can lead to failure. Material selection matters, whether it’s poured concrete, segmental blocks, or natural stone, with reinforcement such as geogrid or rebar ensuring longevity. Proper slope considerations, tiered designs, and adherence to local building codes further guarantee stability, making structural planning essential for durability and function.

What is Stone Coping?

Stone coping refers to the use of stone materials to cap or finish the top of a wall or structure. It serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing protection against weather elements while enhancing the visual appeal of the building. Stone coping can be made from various types of stone, such as granite, limestone, ledgerock or sandstone, and is often used in landscaping, masonry, and architectural designs.

What Other Materials Can be Used to Build Retaining Walls?

Retaining walls play an important role in preventing soil erosion and supporting sloped landscapes. In addition to ledgestone, there are several other materials you can use for building retaining walls, including:

Masonry stones
Bricks
Interlock blocks
Concrete
Timber

Each material offers its own unique look and benefits, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and tastes when choosing what to use.

Get the Supplies You Need Today

At Grand River Natural Stone, we offer a wide range of materials to help you build the perfect retaining wall. Our experts will work with you to choose the best material and design that meets your needs and budget. Come visit us today and get equipped for your next project!

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How Do I Choose The Right Ledgestone Veneer Product For My Project?

Grand River Natural Stone — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 21:23:58 +0000

Ledgestone veneer offers a cost-effective and attractive option, both indoors and outdoors. This guide will help you understand the key factors to consider when choosing ledgestone for your project, explore common applications, and provide tips for maintaining your ledgestone features.

How to Choose Ledgestone Veneer

When choosing a product for your project, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the stones, as well as the colour and texture. You should also consider the specific use of the product, such as whether it will be exposed to the elements or used in a high-traffic area.

For even better results, consider these additional factors as well:

Assess the purpose of your project—is it purely decorative or functional?
Consider whether it will be indoors or outdoors
Choose a texture that suits your aesthetic (smooth, natural-top, varied, etc.)
Look for a reputable stone supplier that carries high-quality, durable products
Consider cost and budget – you can purchase both natural stone ledgestone and concrete veneers made to look like the real thing
Ensure product availability in the necessary quantity

By taking these factors into account, you can make a more informed decision for your project and ensure that the end result is exactly what you want.

Common Applications of Ledgestone

Ledgestone style veneers can be used for a variety of projects, both indoors and outdoors. Here are some of the most common placements:

Outdoor Features:

Outdoor kitchens and barbecues
Retaining walls
Fire pits and fireplaces

Indoor Features:

Kitchen backsplashes
Fireplace surrounds
Accent walls
Bathroom and shower surrounds

Ready to build your new ledgestone feature? Read our guide on building stunning features with ledgestone!

How to Properly Maintain Your Ledgestone

To ensure your ledgestone features remain beautiful and durable for years to come, it’s important to follow proper maintenance practices:

Regular Cleaning:

Use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean the surface periodically.
Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the stone’s texture and colour.

Sealing:

Apply a high-quality stone sealer to protect against moisture and stains.
Reapply the sealer as recommended by the manufacturer, typically every 1-2 years for outdoor applications and every 3-5 years for indoor uses.

Inspect for Damage:

Regularly check for any cracks or loose stones, especially after extreme weather conditions.
Promptly repair any damage to prevent further deterioration.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your ledgestone looking its best and ensure its longevity in your project.

Get the Best Building Materials at Grand River Natural Stone

Choosing the right type of ledgerock for your home improvement project can completely elevate its look and ensure your upgrades last for years to come. For a wide selection of high-quality ledgestone & stone veneer products, visit Grand River Natural Stone. Our team is always on hand to help you choose the right building supplies for your needs and provide expert advice.

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Your Guide to Building Stunning Features with Ledgerock

Grand River Natural Stone — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 16:59:48 +0000

Ledgerock is a versatile and natural building material that can add both beauty and functionality to your outdoor (or even indoor!) design projects. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to enhance your garden or a professional landscaper searching for the perfect finishing touch, ledgerock has plenty to offer.

This blog is available as a slideshow at the bottom of this page, or download an offline version.

What is Ledgerock?

Ledgerock, also known as ledgestone, is a type of natural stone often used in masonry, landscaping, and outdoor design. Flat and thin, this stone is typically cut into rectangles or squares and can vary in size, shape, and colour depending on the quarry it is sourced from. Ledgerock can be made from various minerals, including limestone, sandstone, and granite. All of these materials will impact the colour of the stone itself.

How is Ledgestone Used in Landscaping and Outdoor Design?

Ledgestone can be used to create feature walls, outdoor kitchen stone surrounds, and other hardscaping features. It can also be used to build water features such as fountains, as well as fireplaces, fire pits, and barbecue areas. The natural beauty and durability of ledgerock make it a popular choice for a wide range of outdoor applications.

What Are Some Examples of Features That Can Be Built With Stone?

Many types of hardscaping features can be built with stones like ledgerock, including:

Facing on Feature or Retaining walls
Water features (e.g., fountains, waterfalls, urns)
Fireplaces
Fire pits
BBQ areas

What Are The Pros and Cons of Using Ledgerock for Landscaping?

One of the main benefits of using ledgerock for landscaping and garden design is its natural beauty. Ledgerock can be found in a wide range of colours, textures, and patterns, making it easy to find a look that complements your home and garden. It’s also durable and long-lasting, requiring minimal maintenance once installed.

That said, ledgerock can be both delicate and heavy to work with, meaning you’ll need to take particular care when installing it. It may also be costly compared to alternative materials.

Can I Build A Water Feature with Ledgerock?

Yes, ledgerock can be used to build many types of water features, such as fountains, and waterfalls. You can veneer the face of new projects and can even purchase premade water features like urns and bowls. As a bonus, the natural look of ledgerock can add a sense of elegance and tranquility to these features.

Can Ledgerock Be Used for Building Retaining Walls?

While not ideal for the structural portion, Ledgerock stone is an excellent choice for veneering over concrete or wood understructures. The tightly stacked strips of rock can help to create an attractive, natural look in gardens and yards and are resistant to weathering, erosion, and pests.

How Do I Choose The Right Ledgerock Product for My Project?

When choosing ledgerock for your project, it’s important to consider the stone’s colour, texture, and pattern. You’ll also want to think about the size and shape of the stone, as well as the overall style of your outdoor design project.

In addition, you should consider visiting a stone supplier to see and feel the different options before making your decision.

Choose the right ledgerock with Grand River Natural Stone! Visit our yards and view our ledgerock displays, where you can see and feel your different ledgerock options!

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How Do I Install Ledgerock for My Hardscaping Project?

Installing ledgerock for your hardscaping project can be a complex and labour-intensive process. It typically involves measuring, cutting, and adhering small strips or panels of stone to a prepared surface. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a professional landscaper or mason who has experience working with ledgerock beforehand or even to hire them in for the job.

What Are Some Tips and Tricks for Using Ledgerock in Outdoor Design Projects?

Finding ways to highlight your ledgerock features will enhance its natural beauty and draw attention to the unique characteristics of the stone. Here are some of our top tips for creating a visually striking stone-based feature:

Use a variety of stone sizes and shapes to create visual interest and depth.
Use complementary colours or textures to create a striking contrast.
Use ledgerock to define different areas within your garden or yard, such as a seating area or an outdoor kitchen.
Consider incorporating lighting into your design to highlight the natural beauty of the stone at night.

Where Can You Source High-Quality Ledgestone?

When sourcing ledgestone, it’s important to work with a reputable supplier that can provide high-quality stone that’s suitable for your project. You should look for suppliers that offer a wide range of options and have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance and advice.

Summary

In conclusion, ledgestone is a beautiful and versatile material that can be used to create an array of outdoor features. Whether you’re looking to add a serene waterfall, a stunning feature wall, ledgerock is an excellent choice that will hold up well against the elements.

At Grand River Natural Stone, we understand the importance of quality materials when it comes to your outdoor spaces. That’s why we are proud to offer our customers a wide range of stone options so they can find the perfect fit for their needs. Work with us to upgrade your landscaping today!

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View our blog as a slideshow below:

The post Your Guide to Building Stunning Features with Ledgerock appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

4 Creative Ways to Use Ledgestone in Your Interior Renovations

Grand River Natural Stone — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 23:02:39 +0000

4 creative ways to use ledgestone in your renovations

A ledgestone feature inside your home will never look dated.

Stone features are timeless, even when used in non-traditional ways. Just because your home renovation doesn’t include a facelift for your fireplace doesn’t mean ledgestone features are out of the picture.

This thin veneer cut from real stone can add texture to spaces all over your home.

If you love bringing the outdoors inside to create drama in your living space, think about these 4 creative ways to use ledgestone in your next home renovation.

Stone support columns (or even just 1)

The columns in your basement might look decent with crown moulding. Sometimes you want more than decent.

A white painted column can go with any style, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick with it. Ledgestone comes in plenty of colours, so you can match the shade of your stone to the paint on your walls or the other accent pieces you plan to have in the room.

Ledgestone support columns are popular in billiard and games rooms, and basement bars (where you can also face the outward portion of the bar with ledgestone to complete the look).

A complete ledgestone accent wall

Real estate agents sometimes use high quality faux-stone wallpaper to create accent walls when staging a home – and even that looks great.

A bare wall in an area with high ceilings is perfect for a real ledgestone accent – especially if it gets sun in the evening. The setting sun adds to the rich colours of your ledgestone wall beautifully.

Ledgestone shower surrounds

Your master bathroom should be your sanctuary.

Ledgestone shower surrounds create a comfortable, earthy space to get your day started.

An ideal design could include 2-3 ledgestone walls, a glass wall/door to make the shower part of the overall room’s appearance and a bright LED to highlight the stone texture. A rainfall showerhead is also perfect in this design.

A ledgestone island cover

Most kitchen islands use bead board or solid wood as an envelope.

But if you choose a granite or quartz countertop, or a butcher block countertop, a ledgestone envelope will complement your style better.

Ledgestone island covers are particularly good in kitchens with rich, dark cabinetry. Some stone colours work with lighter cabinets. It’s all about creating contrast between your high and low elements. With stone, it’s easier to contrast against dark wood colours. But if you find a shade of ledgestone that contrasts with your light cabinetry, go for it!

You can use the stuff just about anywhere, and it’s hard to go overboard with ledgestone features. Look at some of the open spaces in your home and think about how ledgestone could make it warmer and more inviting.

Stop by any of our locations to arrange your ledgestone delivery today.

The post 4 Creative Ways to Use Ledgestone in Your Interior Renovations appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

How to Install Thin Stone Veneer on Your Indoor or Outdoor Fireplace

Grand River Natural Stone — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 14:47:09 +0000

A fireplace is a cozy way to spend fall evenings.

And installing thin stone veneer on your indoor or outdoor fireplace is full of great benefits, such as:

Giving it a rustic and charming appearance
Protecting it from the outdoor elements
Extending your enjoyment of the fireplace for the season

The best part is that installing thin veneer stone on your fireplace is quite simple to do – even if it’s a brick fireplace.

Choose your stone veneer

There are two types of stone brick veneer for you to choose from:

Authentic: It may come at a higher cost, but it’s a gorgeous, long-lasting choice for your backyard or family room fireplace. Usually it’s heavier than artificial veneer, but is cut thinly enough that weight is not an issue.

Artificial: Sometimes known as faux stone. Manmade stone veneer now looks, feels and behaves like the natural version. If you’re planning to do it yourself, artificial stone veneer is lighter, tidier and overall easier to work with.

Preparing to install thin stone veneer

Whether you’re installing authentic or artificial stone veneer to your brick fireplace, the process more or less remains the same.

First, though, you’ll need to clean the surface where the stone will be affixed and remove any:

Paint
Dirt
Dust
Debris

If you’re planning to install thin stone veneer directly into a brick or concrete fireplace, you can apply it directly to the surface.

Then, apply a scratch coat (about ½” think) of mortar to the surface and let it cure for 24 hours.

1. Mix the right amount of mortar you’ll need

Usually the mixture is two parts of washed masonry sand to one part of cement.

Stir it up for a minimum of five minutes until the mixture is both think and creamy.

2. Lay the stones out in the pattern you want

If you need to trim the stones to fit your backyard fireplace, you can use a masonry hammer or masonry saw from Grand River Natural Stone.

3. Clean the stones before applying them

After you’ve cut the stones to fit, you’ll need to remove all dust, dirt and loose particles from them.

If necessary, you can even wash them with water.

However you’ll need to wait for them to dry before you install them.

Once dried, you can moisten their backsides with a masonry brush, which will help strengthen the bond between the stone and the mortar.

4. Apply mortar to the back of the stone

Then, press the stone to the fireplace wall.

While you’re pressing it, rotate the stone slightly in order to force some of the mortar to squeeze out around the edges of the stone.

Before the mortar has finally set, remove any extra from the surface of the thin veneer stone with a rag or brush.

5. Point the joints with grout

When all of the stone veneer elements are in place, grout any large gaps between the stones.

Post-installation maintenance

Once four weeks have passed, you may wish to apply a high-quality sealer to the stone veneer.

For an indoor fireplace: Sealing is more of an aesthetic reference, as opposed providing a protective barrier (simply because it won’t be exposed to outdoor elements).

For an outdoor fireplace: Even though it’s outside, your fireplace doesn’t need to be sealed. However, if you want to enhance, darken or bring its colour back to life (especially if it’s an older unit), then sealer is an appropriate option.

Applying stone sealer on a regular schedule is completely optional.

Remember: the sealer may change the colouring of your thin veneer stone, so make sure you test it out first in an area of the fireplace where it won’t be noticed.

And since stone veneer is easy to clean, just wash off the sealer with a hose if you aren’t happy with the results. Just make sure you do this within minutes.

We’re ready to start when you are

Now that you know how to install thin stone veneer to your backyard fireplace, it’s time to make it happen.

And Grand River Natural Stone can help. We’re your source for everything you need to get it done, including:

Just contact us for a FREE quote or to speak with any of our product or building experts.

We’ll answer all your questions and give you the guidance you need to get started.

The post How to Install Thin Stone Veneer on Your Indoor or Outdoor Fireplace appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.