Natural Stone Catalogue - Grand River Natural Stone Mon, 06 Jan 2025 14:21:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.3 https://www.grandriverstone.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/favicon.png Natural Stone Catalogue - Grand River Natural Stone 32 32 All About Concrete Steps: A Practical and Long-Lasting Outdoor Solution https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/all-about-concrete-steps-a-practical-and-long-lasting-outdoor-solution/ Sat, 16 Nov 2024 14:17:00 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/?p=10637 Concrete steps are a reliable and cost-effective option for outdoor spaces. They work well for entryways, pathways, or sloped areas and are built to handle heavy use and tough weather. This guide covers the main types of concrete steps, basic overviews of how they are installed, and tips to keep them in good shape.  Precast ... Read more

The post All About Concrete Steps: A Practical and Long-Lasting Outdoor Solution appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Concrete steps are a reliable and cost-effective option for outdoor spaces. They work well for entryways, pathways, or sloped areas and are built to handle heavy use and tough weather. This guide covers the main types of concrete steps, basic overviews of how they are installed, and tips to keep them in good shape. 

Precast Concrete Steps for Quick Installation 

Our first option of precast steps is made ready to install. These single-unit steps are durable and ideal for entryways or paths. They come in a range of sizes and finishes to suit different designs. 

Modular Concrete Units for Custom Designs 

Modular concrete steps are made from smaller, stackable units. These are great for creating unique layouts or working on uneven slopes. They can be combined with coping stones for a polished look. This option is flexible and allows for easy customization. Modular steps are especially useful for walkways or multi-level areas.  

Poured Concrete Steps for Complete Customization 

Poured concrete steps are built on-site, allowing for full customization to fit your exact needs. These steps are poured into forms and left to cure, making them ideal for irregular spaces or when you need a specific shape or size. While they’re more labour-intensive than precast or modular steps, they offer a completely tailored result. Ensure proper curing and levelling for a professional finish. 

Facing Techniques to Upgrade Concrete Steps 

Concrete steps can be upgraded or refreshed with facing techniques that enhance their appearance. This is particularly useful for old, plain concrete steps and won’t involve breaking the bank!  

  1. Coping Stones for Treads:
    • A coping stone is placed on top of the concrete step to create a clean, finished tread. 
    • These can be made of natural stone or precast concrete.
  2. Natural Stone Veneer for Risers:
    • The riser (front face of the step) can be covered with natural stone veneer to match the coping. 
    • Square-cut flagstones are commonly used for this purpose, cut into strips to fit the riser. 
  3. Combination Approaches:
    • Many installations combine coping stones for treads with a natural stone veneer for risers. 

Concrete Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Durability 

Concrete steps are low maintenance but still benefit from regular care, such as: 

  • Keeping them free of dirt and debris to avoid buildup. 
  • Avoiding harsh chemicals or salts to protect the surface. 
  • Addressing cracks immediately to prevent spreading. 

High-quality concrete does not require sealing, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for outdoor steps. 

Get Expert Help for Your Concrete Step Project 

Grand River Natural Stone is your go-to source for concrete step materials. We offer options from top manufacturers like Techo-Bloc, Unilock, and Permacon. Whether you want precast steps, modular designs, or poured concrete solutions, we have the products you need. 

Visit one of our locations or contact us for expert advice on selecting and installing concrete steps.  

The post All About Concrete Steps: A Practical and Long-Lasting Outdoor Solution appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Steps and Treads – Natural Stone Ideas for the Outdoors https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/steps-and-treads-natural-stone-ideas-for-the-outdoors/ Sun, 20 Oct 2024 14:11:03 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/?p=10635 When it comes time to design new outdoor steps, the materials you choose define both the feel and the functionality of your space. Whether you’re leading into a garden or setting the stage for an elegant patio, the right choice in natural stone or concrete with stone coping can turn an ordinary staircase into a ... Read more

The post Steps and Treads – Natural Stone Ideas for the Outdoors appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
When it comes time to design new outdoor steps, the materials you choose define both the feel and the functionality of your space. Whether you’re leading into a garden or setting the stage for an elegant patio, the right choice in natural stone or concrete with stone coping can turn an ordinary staircase into a striking focal point.  

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about selecting the perfect stone materials and design strategies to ensure your steps and treads are as practical as they are eye-catching. 

What Are the Best Materials for Outdoor Steps? 

You should consider factors like durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Natural stone is a highly recommended option due to its ability to withstand the elements while offering a timeless look. Granite, for example, is exceptionally durable and well-suited for high-traffic areas and cold climates.  

Concrete is another popular choice, with pre-cast options and modular units (smaller blocks). Builders can also face the concrete risers with smaller stones and use natural stone coping for the treads. 

What Are the Best Natural Stones for Outdoor Steps and Treads? 

Natural stone is an ideal choice for outdoor steps due to its strength, durability, and timeless appearance. Popular options include: 

  • Granite: Known for its density and weather resistance, granite is a top choice for outdoor steps. It’s available in a variety of colours, from light grey to deep black, making it a versatile option for many landscape styles. 
  • Limestone: Offering a more refined and classic look, limestone steps are often used in traditional or formal landscapes. Limestone is durable but can be more susceptible to wear over time if exposed to harsh weather conditions. 
  • Flagstone: This stone features flat pieces that create a rustic and organic look. Flagstone can also be used to face existing concrete or wooden steps for added durability and style. 

What Should You Consider When Designing Stone Steps? 

When designing outdoor steps, it’s important to consider looks and practicality. Key factors include: 

  • Step Depth and Height: For safety and comfort, each step should be 12-18 inches deep and no more than 7 inches high. This ensures a comfortable stride and minimizes the risk of tripping. 
  • Tread Overhang and Width: The tread, or the part of the step you walk on, should extend slightly beyond the riser below, typically by 1 to 2 inches, to create a more visually appealing and comfortable step. The tread width should also be considered, with wider treads (around 14-16 inches) offering a more gradual ascent, which can add elegance and ease of use to your steps. 
  • Drainage: Outdoor steps need proper drainage to prevent water pooling. Each step should be slightly tilted forward, about 1/8 inch per foot, to direct water off the surface. 
  • Material Thickness: For durability, steps should be at least 6-7 inches thick to handle foot traffic and weather exposure. 

How do Concrete Steps Compare to Natural Stone? 

Concrete blocks offer a more cost-effective alternative to solid natural stone. While they provide a similar look, blocks may be easier to install and less expensive. However, solid natural stone is ultra-durable and better suited for high-traffic areas or projects exposed to harsh weather conditions. 

How Should Stone Steps Be Installed? 

Proper installation is the key to longevity for your stone steps. A solid foundation of compacted gravel or A-gravel is essential, typically 4-6 inches deep, followed by a layer of bedding sand. Starting from the bottom step and working upward ensures that each step is stable. Stones should overlap slightly, and each step should be set with a slight forward pitch for drainage. 

What Materials Can I Use for Risers? 

For outdoor steps, risers can be made from a variety of materials that complement your treads and overall landscape design. One excellent option is to use natural stone risers that match your treads. 

Alternatively, you can use materials like brick, poured concrete, pre-cast concrete, or smaller stones. Some homeowners also choose to face existing concrete steps with flagstone or other natural stone veneers to achieve a similar effect. The key is to choose a material that is weather-resistant and complements the style of your outdoor space. 

What Maintenance Do Stone Steps Require? 

Maintenance for natural stone steps is minimal but essential for long-term performance. Regularly cleaning the surface with water and a mild detergent can prevent the buildup of dirt and algae. 

How Do You Integrate Stone Steps into a Slope? 

For sloped landscapes, stone steps are ideal for both functionality and erosion control. Steps should be built into the natural slope, with retaining walls or risers used to hold the earth in place. Natural stone blends seamlessly into the landscape, making it an attractive solution for connecting different levels of your yard. 

What Are Popular Design Trends for Stone Steps in 2024? 

Current trends in outdoor landscaping steps include: 

  • Mixed Materials: Combining different types of stone or integrating materials like wood or concrete creates visual contrast. 
  • Sustainable Designs: Using locally sourced stone reduces environmental impact and creates a natural, cohesive look. 
  • Lighting Integration: Adding recessed lighting into the steps or along the edges enhances safety and highlights the stone’s texture. 

Level-Up Your Landscaping with Veneer & Natural Stone Steps Today 

Ready to transform your outdoor space with beautiful, durable stone steps? At Grand River Natural Stone, we offer a wide range of high-quality natural stone, concrete and stone veneer products to suit any landscape design. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help bring your vision to life. 

The post Steps and Treads – Natural Stone Ideas for the Outdoors appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
6 Exciting Exterior Home Designs with Stone and Brick https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/6-exciting-exterior-home-designs-with-stone-and-brick/ https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/6-exciting-exterior-home-designs-with-stone-and-brick/#respond Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:00:27 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/?p=6837 New exteriors are one of the best ways to radically alter your home’s appearance and value. Whether you have brick and want to add some stone or are thinking of adding both materials to the front of your house, there is a whole world of exciting possibilities to explore in mixing these two materials. If ... Read more

The post 6 Exciting Exterior Home Designs with Stone and Brick appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
white house exterior

New exteriors are one of the best ways to radically alter your home’s appearance and value. Whether you have brick and want to add some stone or are thinking of adding both materials to the front of your house, there is a whole world of exciting possibilities to explore in mixing these two materials. If you’re not confident or you’re just looking for some inspiration, explore these six exciting home designs that include stone and brick. 

1. All-White Stone with Red Brick Landscaping 

Combine the classic look of rich red brick with the elegance of all-white exterior stone with this style. Use a textured white brick on the home exterior and add accents in the landscaping and on the exterior itself with red brick that is equally textured. The big contrast in colour and style makes a statement. 

2. Soft Red Brick and Soft Grey Stone 

Is that intensely contrasting style not for you? Then try picking stone and brick that are both medium shades, not too stark or bright. You can combine a softer more subtle mix of red and grey brick with all grey stone. Keep the textures the same, smooth or rough, to limit the contrast there too. Then your eye will just focus on the red and grey contrast. 

Thinking about making updates to your home exterior? We’d love to help modernize your home. Give us a call today. 

3. Dark Brick with Modern Stone   

Not quite classic, dark almost purple brick is still an older style of brick that harkens back to magnificent country properties. In the modern-day, these properties are more likely to be built with smooth and light-coloured stones. So, if you’re building an extension on such an old brick home, add a light modern stone to up the contrast. Or, combine both materials in a new build to mash up old and new. 

4. Red Brick and Modern Foundations 

Is that beautiful modern stone you like a bit outside of your price range? You can still get a touch of it and buy mostly a cheaper material. Combine a modern mix of red brick with a rough modern stone. Make most of the exterior out of the brick, but add a strip around the foundation out of stone, and potentially make the entryway out of stone too. You’ll see the stone you love every time you use the front door. 

5. Pink Brick and Cream Stone 

We haven’t yet discussed a style with pink brick. This light, playful material is a great pairing for equally light and more heavily textured stone. If you like the idea of pink brick but have thought it’s a bit much on a whole home, adding stone is a great way to dilute the pink and create a more sophisticated look. 

6. Brick with Coping Stone  

Any design with great windows deserves to have coping stone to make it look even better. You can pair just coping stone with brick! 

Thinking about adding stone or brick to your home exterior? At Grand River Natural Stone, we can help! Give our team a call today.

Contact Us

 

The post 6 Exciting Exterior Home Designs with Stone and Brick appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/6-exciting-exterior-home-designs-with-stone-and-brick/feed/ 0
What is a Rock Garden? https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/what-is-a-rock-garden/ Wed, 17 Jul 2019 13:22:13 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/?p=4097 As the name suggests, rock gardens are gardens that are designed to emphasize the use of different rocks and stones in combination with different plants. Homeowners can use rock gardens to tackle problem areas in their yards or build up flat areas, while others simply want to get more creative with their space and create ... Read more

The post What is a Rock Garden? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Front Yard Rock Garden

As the name suggests, rock gardens are gardens that are designed to emphasize the use of different rocks and stones in combination with different plants. Homeowners can use rock gardens to tackle problem areas in their yards or build up flat areas, while others simply want to get more creative with their space and create an eye-catching element.

If you’re wondering whether rocks are good for gardens and how to design a rock garden of your own, this post will provide some information on the benefits and simple tips to help transform your backyard, big or small.

Benefits of a Rock Garden

Beyond being trendy and looking sharp, rock gardens actually have many benefits, including:

  • Ability to Withstand Harsh Conditions. Because rocks are so durable, rock gardens are able to survive under intense sun, wind and drought. This makes rock gardens a great choice for those living in climates with drastic weather changes at different times during a season.
  • Low Maintenance. Arguably one of the greatest advantages of a rock garden is that it is low maintenance. Typically speaking, rock gardens feature plants such as cacti that require little watering. The rocks also eliminate the possibility of erosion, making rock gardens the perfect choice for those that love gardens but don’t love gardening.
  • Changes with the Seasons. Rock gardens are able to adapt to different weather conditions which means they transition well between all seasons. This makes it possible to enjoy your rock garden year-round.
  • Extension of Space. Rock gardens provide the opportunity for a garden without over-filling your yard with plants. This gives the illusion of a larger space and still leaves an adequate area to sit and enjoy your plants.
  • Diverse Styles. Rock gardens look most interesting when they are created with a combination of rocks, small pebbles, boulders and stones. This can create an interesting appearance tailored to your specific style and tastes.

Backyard Rock Garden

How to Design a Rock Garden

Now that you know the benefits a rock garden can bring to your yard, let’s take a look at how to design a rock garden with these simple step-by-step tips.

  • Decide on an area for the rock garden and mark it out.
  • Rid the area of grass and/or weeds.
  • Level the soil. In order to plant, you will need to make sure the soil is level.
  • Lay a stone perimeter. This perimeter will create a clear outline of where the garden boundaries are and the stones will blend in with the rest of the rock garden.
  • Choose the right plants. Do your research to determine which types of plants will do well in a rock garden in your area. Think about a colour scheme when making your final decision. Do you want something that blends with the overall colour palette of your house or something that contrasts with pops of colour?
  • Insert more rocks. Pay attention to where you are using different sizes and types of rocks to give the garden an interesting and dynamic appearance.

Remember, that we offer a variety of landscaping supplies to help you build your garden and we’re always happy to help with your ideas.

Rock gardens are a great way to extend patios, stone steps and driveways to create a universal appearance on your property. Contact us today for more information on how to make your rock garden a truly unique feature of your outdoor space.

The post What is a Rock Garden? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
5 Reasons Why Stone Outperforms Other Materials https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/5-reasons-why-stone-outperforms-other-materials/ Thu, 25 Oct 2018 20:06:33 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/?p=3882 Did you know natural stone was one of the first building materials ever used? From large buildings and bridges to backyard stone pathways and retaining walls, natural stone has been used for its versatility and reliability. Plus, natural stone outperforms other materials time and again. Why? Well, natural stone has a low environmental impact, it’s ... Read more

The post 5 Reasons Why Stone Outperforms Other Materials appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Did you know natural stone was one of the first building materials ever used?

From large buildings and bridges to backyard stone pathways and retaining walls, natural stone has been used for its versatility and reliability.

Plus, natural stone outperforms other materials time and again.

Why? Well, natural stone has a low environmental impact, it’s extremely durable with little maintenance, and it has a timeless beauty and grandeur.

Natural Stone Banas

1. Low Environmental Impact

Natural stone is made from nature, by nature. This means it requires no chemicals, pollutants, and releases no hazardous gases like other building materials do.

Plus, no energy is needed to manufacture stone—only quarrying and processing.

Natural stone is as “green” as it gets.

2. Easy Maintenance

Stone requires very little maintenance and care to keep it beautiful.

While other building materials need to be regularly painted, stained or sealed, natural stone doesn’t. It creates its own natural patina, which naturally enhances its beauty over time.

You, like your clients, want to spend time enjoying your home’s landscaping. Not maintaining it. That’s why natural stone is so great.

Typically, regular sweeping is all that’s needed to keep your natural stone beautiful for years to come.

3. Strong and Durable

Natural stone is one of the most popular building materials for its durability and resistance to damage. Plus, it’s a long-lasting material that you most likely will never have to replace.

What else makes stone the strongest and most durable choice?

  • It doesn’t rot
  • It is resistant to pests
  • Fireproof
  • Less susceptible to frost damage
  • Small chips and damage are difficult to spot

4. Timeless and Versitile

Natural stone retains its natural beauty and has a much longer lifespan than its building counterparts (concrete, brick, etc).

Stone never goes out of style and can look just as stunning after 100 years, as the day it was installed.

Plus, since it’s a natural material, it blends seamlessly with outdoor surroundings and its colours and textures vary naturally. Stone can be resurfaced in many ways to match any style and ambiance, and it can be cut into any shape or size for any application.

5. Great in All Seasons

Unlike other landscaping materials, natural stone is consistent through temperature changes.

Common building materials, such as wood and cement, expand and contract throughout the changing seasons. This can cause major damage and warping. Meanwhile, natural stone remains consistent through even the harshest Canadian climates.

Snow covered stone

How can you make sure your stone is safe throughout the Canadian winter?

  • Remove snow from stone and interlocking pavers before it melts—Once snow melts and water seeps into the cracks in your stone, it will freeze in the cracks causing your stone to expand and warp.
  • Seal your natural stone in the fall—Prevent damages before they happen by having your hardscaping sealed in the fall months.
  • Be cautious with snow shoveling—Metal show snovels can scratch your natural stone or pavers, and it can even scrape off sealant. Try using a snow blower or plastic snow shovel instead.

Let Us Help With Your Stonework

Grand River Natural Stone has the tools to make your home beautiful throughout the year, so trust us with all of your landscaping needs.

For more information about our services, give us a call or visit us!

Request a Quote

The post 5 Reasons Why Stone Outperforms Other Materials appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
What Kind of Natural Stone is Best for What Use? https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/kind-natural-stone-best-use/ Tue, 16 Sep 2014 11:21:50 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/?p=241 When visiting local landscaping suppliers in search of natural paving, wall and pathway products, it is easy to become overwhelmed with the variety of choices available. Most suppliers offer both manufactured and natural products with different characteristics and purposes. Understanding how a few of the most popular of these are made and used should help ... Read more

The post What Kind of Natural Stone is Best for What Use? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
When visiting local landscaping suppliers in search of natural paving, wall and pathway products, it is easy to become overwhelmed with the variety of choices available. Most suppliers offer both manufactured and natural products with different characteristics and purposes. Understanding how a few of the most popular of these are made and used should help sort out any initial confusion.

Building Natural Surfaces and Walls

Two of the most popular choices for creating a natural look to landscaping are armour stone and flagstone. Both exhibit a range of earthy colors, textures and unique visual patterns derived from the specific quarries where they were mined. However, each type has different purposes.

natural stone wallArmour stones are large, rough, cubically shaped blocks weighing from one to several tons each. They are often used in small quantities to create a focal point in the yard such as a small waterfall, a large planter or a short wall. In larger quantities, they make an especially durable wall for erosion control or shoreline retention. Armour stone comes in distinguished grays as well as rich, chocolate browns that will enhance any landscape.

Flagstones are flat and may have natural or cut surfaces. They are ideal for patios, walkways, pool surrounds and short retaining walls when stacked. The material is especially weather resistant. It withstands decades of freeze-thaw cycles without breaking down. It exhibits an even greater variety of colors than armour stone, from pinks to greys, blacks to light purples and myriad shades of brown or gray. Sandstone types of flagstones have an enduring, natural slip-resistant texture.

flagstone patio Both flagstone and armour stone are placed with larger gaps than used for brick or concrete pavers or blocks. This extra space can support filler vegetation such as moss, elfin thyme or alyssum, which further accents the rustic, outdoors theme that they lend to any landscaping project.

Concrete and Clay Brick

natural stone walkwayIf outdoor pavements are salted during the winter, concrete or brick pavers may be a better choice than flagstone since the latter tends to flake or spall in the presence of salt. If you are concerned about cost or want a uniform look for a drive or patio, then clay brick or interlocking concrete pavers may suit you better.

Clay brick is made from a wholly natural material that is shaped, dried and then fired in kilns to achieve its strength. Concrete brick is made with Portland cement and aggregates mixed in specific proportions. It is cured, not fired, to create chemical bonds between its components. These different materials and manufacturing processes result in distinctly different characteristics:

• Clay brick expands over time, whereas concrete brick shrinks
• The color of clay brick is determined by the type of clay used
• Concrete brick’s “natural” color is gray, but pigments can impart any shade.
• Over time, the color of pigmented concrete fades, but clay brick tends to retain its color
• Concrete pavers come in a wider variety of textures and shapes than clay brick

The basic trade-off between the two is concrete’s higher structural strength and integrity versus the more natural look of clay brick. Both can be used to great advantage in your landscape design, however, depending on your aesthetic goals and practical requirements.

A Little Knowledge Goes a Long Way

Now that you are familiar with some of the most popular landscaping materials, you are ready to apply your knowledge to your personal landscaping project. You could also consult a landscape designer who will consider your goals, your lifestyle, current architecture and budget to find what best suits your needs.

request a quote

 

The post What Kind of Natural Stone is Best for What Use? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Which is Better, Natural Stone or Interlocking Concrete Pavers? https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/natural-stone-or-interlocking-concrete-pavers/ Wed, 16 Apr 2014 00:25:33 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/?p=188 Deciding on the best material for home patio or walkway projects is a fun but challenging process. Homeowners have to balance appearance, style, ease of construction, durability and cost. Fortunately, there are some excellent materials that score high in all of these categories. Natural stone pavers and interlocking concrete pavers are two of the best ... Read more

The post Which is Better, Natural Stone or Interlocking Concrete Pavers? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Deciding on the best material for home patio or walkway projects is a fun but challenging process.

Homeowners have to balance appearance, style, ease of construction, durability and cost. Fortunately, there are some excellent materials that score high in all of these categories.

Natural stone pavers and interlocking concrete pavers are two of the best options for patios and walkways.

Let’s look at the characteristics of each and the differences between the two.

Interlocking Concrete Pavers

Interlocking Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are the first choice of many landscape designers for home pavement projects. They come in a variety of colours, sizes and shapes, making them suitable for a wide range of projects.

Because of the shape of each paver or the pattern in which they are installed, concrete pavers form a strong, bound pavement. If installed correctly, there is very little movement of the pavers over time.

Interlocking concrete pavers also make a smooth, even surface. Because of their consistent shape and size, they are easy to install.

Cost of materials and construction tends to be less than with natural stone pavers. Concrete pavers are attractive, with lots of colour and pattern options.

Adding a sealer deepens the colours, enhancing the appearance. However, concrete pavers do not have the natural richness of tone that is found in natural stone.

Natural Stone Pavers

Which is Better, Natural Stone or Interlocking Concrete Pavers

Flagstone pavers are made from natural stone, which is why we sometimes call them natural stone pavers. Granite, slate and limestone are some of the types of stone typically quarried for use as natural stone pavers.

Availability often depends on the region where you live. Flagstone can be cut in square or rectangular shapes, but is also used in random, irregular shapes. Colours are usually shades of gray and brown, but blue, green and reddish tints can sometimes be found.

How to use flagstone

Irregular shaped stone is a natural choice for informal walkways and garden paths. Random flagstone shapes can also be used for patios, though mortar setting beds and grout are recommended, adding to the construction cost.

Square cut flagstone of equal or differing sizes makes an elegant, beautiful patio material that can look contemporary or historic.

Maintenance

Fix your driveway

Natural stone pavers need little maintenance. Its natural durability means it will be around for decades with little evidence of wear and tear.

It has a classic, timeless look. Concrete pavers need to be resealed every few years to maintain their appearance. Some colours may fade over time.

Both types of pavements may need to have individual pavers reset from time to time as base materials settle or heave due to freezing and thawing.

Interlocking concrete pavers and natural stone are both attractive and durable choices for home landscaping projects.

It is not unusual to be unsure about which material is best for your project. Though you cannot go wrong with either choice, many people, after seeing the natural beauty of stone pavers, select flagstone for their patio or walkway.

If you use interlocking concrete pavers, you will also have a stylish, long-lasting material. The decision is yours!

If you want more help with the decision, call us and talk to one of our experts. We’ll help you weigh your options with no pressure to buy.

Ask for a FREE Quote

The post Which is Better, Natural Stone or Interlocking Concrete Pavers? appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Flagstone/Natural Stone Walkway Ideas https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/flagstonenatural-stone-walkway-ideas/ Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:55:05 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/?p=38 Creating a walkway or path out of natural stone or flagstone is a popular choice for many homeowners. With the unique natural material and the limitless design options, no two features ever look the exact same. Here are some things to think through as you consider different natural stone walkway ideas. Choose Formal or Informal ... Read more

The post Flagstone/Natural Stone Walkway Ideas appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Creating a walkway or path out of natural stone or flagstone is a popular choice for many homeowners. With the unique natural material and the limitless design options, no two features ever look the exact same.

Here are some things to think through as you consider different natural stone walkway ideas.

Choose Formal or Informal

The first question is: what kind of walkway will this be? Is it a casual garden path, a wide, formal entrance or something in between? This will help you decide the size and shape of stone and how it is installed.

Flagstone walkway

A formal walkway tend to work better within a modern/contemporary landscape design, while an informal or organic style is more suited to a French or cottage style space.

Choosing Material Shapes & Sizes

For a formal walkway, you may want to consider flagstone with sawn edges. Rectangular stones will fit together nicely and can be set in a variety of regular or random patterns. The space between individual stones can be minimized when they all have straight edges.

Stones that are 1.5 – 2 inches thick can be dry laid.

Flagstone gardenDry laid square cut options can have a simple but elegant appearance when stones are butted up against each other with no gap between. When they are laid with spaces between, the gaps are filled by sweeping in masonry sand or polymer sand.

Pieces that are less than an inch in thickness are better laid in mortar on a concrete base. Though this adds expense to the project, long term maintenance will be less.

Rectangular or irregular flagstone can also be used for an informal path or walk. Sometimes these are installed in a “stepping-stone” style, giving a very organic look with grass or moss growing in between the surfaces.

For outdoor use, it is best to use flagstone with a somewhat textured finish. There are a variety of options depending on the type of stone and the supplier. Remember that a completely smooth surface may be slippery after rain.

Designing and Setting Your Walkway

Flagstone installation

Generally speaking, the more your path will be used, the closer together the stones should be. Anywhere from one to three inches is a reasonable distance, though a meandering stepping stone path could have flagstone pieces six or more inches apart.

You will need a minimum of 3-4 inches between stones to successfully establish grass or moss in between. If you already have an established lawn, it may be best to cut out the sod for each stone, leaving the existing grass in place between pavers.

Though it can be hard to establish new plants in narrow spaces between stones, there are some species, such as creeping thyme and scotch moss that work reasonably well. The moss will need frequent watering and extra attention to get established in the shade. The Thyme requires less attention, as it does well in a dry, hot and sandy location.

Small gravel or decorative rock can also be used between pavers. Gravel with an angular shape will compact more easily than round stones and is more likely to stay in place. An aggregate called high performance bedding, or HPB, is an excellent choice.

Evaluating different walkway ideas can be a lot of fun as you begin the design process. Whatever your final decisions, you will find that a natural walkway is a functional &attractive addition to your home landscape.

View Flagstone Samples for Inspiration

Grand River Natural Stone has many varieties to offer, from exotic to neutral and everything in-between. We have local limestone and Muskoka granite, slate from Pennsylvania and many colours of sandstone from India. We are sure to have something to compliment your architecture & landscape design.

Browse our catalogue to view more samples of our quarry products now.

The post Flagstone/Natural Stone Walkway Ideas appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Interior Natural Flagstone Ideas https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/interior-natural-flagstone-ideas/ Tue, 28 May 2013 10:08:30 +0000 https://www.grandriverstone.com/blog/?p=33 Imagine a flooring material suitable for both formal and informal design styles that is durable, easy to maintain and looks much more expensive than its actual cost. Flagstone is a natural stone material with all of these characteristics, but it is often overlooked when homeowners are planning their interiors. Why? Many of us think about ... Read more

The post Interior Natural Flagstone Ideas appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>
Interior flagstone floor

Imagine a flooring material suitable for both formal and informal design styles that is durable, easy to maintain and looks much more expensive than its actual cost.

Flagstone is a natural stone material with all of these characteristics, but it is often overlooked when homeowners are planning their interiors.

Why?

Many of us think about landscaping when we consider natural stone, but it offers many benefits when it comes to interior surfaces: it is a unique and unexpected flooring choice, it is eco-friendly, & it will last for the life of your home.

What Exactly Is Flagstone?

Flagstone is a generic name used to describe flat stone that is suitable for paving or surfacing.

Some examples include:

Kitchen flagstone floorDesign Choices

There are many different styles and colors of flagstone to choose from. The surface of flagstone can be flat and smooth for a clean look or textured and irregular for a more rustic appearance. As with all truly natural materials, each individual piece of stone is unique.

Many types of flagstone are available. It can be produced from slate, sandstone, granite or limestone and is harvested from all over the world.

There Are Many Options to Choose From, But Some Work Particularly Well for Interiors

For interior use, you will want flagstone that has a smooth surface with a polished or honed finish. Rectangular shapes with sawn edges may be best where a more formal appearance is desired. Straight edges also allow stones to be placed close together with little or no visible mortar (however stone in an interior space- unlike in a patio- will always be mortared.)

Some variation in size is generally in keeping with the character of flagstone. It is unusual, though not unheard of, to have all of your stone pavers the same exact size. A random pattern based on three or four different stone sizes can also be used to create interest

Irregularly shaped flagstone may also be used to provide a more casual or informal look. It can be beautiful in an entrance, bathroom or large room. A smaller number of large stones can have a simple yet impressive effect for an entire area or to create a focal point in a particular room. Random flag can also be placed in a square cut pattern as an accent.

Grand River PDF

Need more design ideas?

Download our FREE guide on using flagstone inside and outside the home.

 

Flagstone entranceWhere to Use Natural Stone in your Home?

Flagstone provides the perfect look for a large country kitchen. It compliments wood furniture such as kitchen cabinets or a sturdy kitchen table. It also performs well in the kitchen environment where a durable, easy-to-clean floor, backsplash and countertop are needed.

A large sunroom is also a nice setting for natural stone flooring. Flagstone serves well as a transition between indoor and outdoor spaces and will retain heat from direct sunlight. Wicker furniture, large pillows and lightweight curtains made of natural fabric are a good match for flagstone in a sunroom or casual sitting room.

Flagstone can also be successfully used for entryways and foyers, bathrooms, dining rooms and dens.

Any room with a fireplace virtually calls out for flagstone, at least in front of the hearth and fireplace, if not for the fireplace itself. Remember that flagstone does not have to stay on the floor! A stone wall makes a dramatic feature or focal point.

What are the Maintenance Requirements?

Caring for your flagstone floor is easy.

It should be coated with a sealer after the initial installation and can be swept or vacuumed like any other floor. Light mopping with a natural, non-abrasive cleaner is the only other maintenance that is needed.

Need Some Inspiration?

View different colours and designs of flagstone surfaces here.

Stone is one of the most versatile, durable materials available. Using flagstone for flooring or other features in your home makes good sense in many ways. Natural stone flooring has a timeless character that will only improve and enhance the look of your home as the years go by.

Request a Quote

The post Interior Natural Flagstone Ideas appeared first on Grand River Natural Stone.

]]>