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The Premium Difference: Why Choose STONEarch Natural Stone?
Natural stone adds timeless beauty and elegance to any landscape or architectural project. But with so many suppliers out there, how do you choose the right one?
At STONEarch, we believe in the premium difference. We source and supply the finest natural stone products, prioritizing quality and offering a range of benefits that elevate your project from ordinary to extraordinary.
Uncompromising Quality: A Commitment to Excellence
For over 15 years, STONEarch has been a leader in the North American natural stone industry. We've built a reputation for unwavering commitment to quality.
Our state-of-the-art fabrication facilities utilize cutting-edge equipment, overseen by experienced artisans who share our passion for excellence. This dedication is evident in every product we offer.
Extensive Quality Inspection: From Quarry to Your Project
Our commitment to quality starts at the source. We meticulously inspect our natural stones at global quarries, ensuring they meet our rigorous standards. This inspection process continues throughout fabrication, packaging, and shipping. You can rest assured that the STONEarch natural stone you receive is the finest available.
Beyond Beauty: The Benefits of Choosing STONEarch
While the visual appeal of natural stone is undeniable, STONEarch products offer a multitude of benefits that enhance your project's longevity and functionality:
- Unmatched Durability: Natural stone is incredibly strong and resilient, able to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic for years to come.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike other materials, natural stone requires minimal maintenance to retain its beauty. A simple cleaning routine keeps your stone looking its best.
- Sustainable Choice: Natural stone is a natural and sustainable material, making it an environmentally friendly option for your project.
- Wide Variety & Customization: STONEarch offers the largest selection of natural stone products in North America, including pavers, flagstone, copings, cobblestones, walling stones, and more. We also specialize in custom stonework, allowing you to create unique and personalized features.
- Expert Support: Our team of architects and stone experts are here to assist you in every step of your project, from design consultation to product selection.
Invest in Quality, Invest in STONEarch
Choosing STONEarch natural stone is an investment in quality, durability, and timeless beauty. With our extensive product selection, unwavering commitment to excellence, and exceptional customer service, we are your one-stop shop for all your natural stone needs.
Visit our website for more inspiration and expert advice.
Travertine vs. Granite: Which is Best for Your Outdoor Landscaping
Choosing the right material for your outdoor landscaping project is crucial for aesthetics and functionality. Travertine and granite are two popular options, each with its characteristics, advantages, and drawbacks.
Let us explore the differences between travertine and granite and help you decide which suits your outdoor landscaping needs best.
Understanding Travertine
Characteristics
Travertine is a type of limestone formed by mineral springs, particularly hot springs. It is known for its distinctive, porous surface and earthy tones, ranging from beige and ivory to walnut and gold. Travertine has a natural, rustic appearance that blends well with outdoor environments.
Understanding Granite
Characteristics
Granite is an igneous rock composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica, giving it a speckled appearance. It is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, from light grays and pinks to deep blacks and greens. Granite is known for its strength and durability.
Comparing Travertine and Granite
Which One to Choose?
Consider Travertine If:
-You prefer a natural, rustic look for your outdoor space.
-You need a cooler surface for pool decks or patios.
-You are willing to invest in regular maintenance to keep the tiles in good condition.
Consider Granite If:
-You need a highly durable and low-maintenance material.
-You are looking for a wide range of color options and a modern aesthetic.
-You are installing surfaces that will be exposed to high temperatures or heavy use.
Both travertine and granite have unique qualities that make them excellent choices for outdoor landscaping. Your decision should be based on your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and willingness to maintain the material.
Visit our website for more inspiration and for expert advice.
How Gabion Stone Can Elevate Your Next Project
Gabion stone, commonly seen along riverbanks and mountainsides, is now gaining popularity in landscape design for its unique aesthetic and functional benefits. From building pillars to creating ponds and walls, gabion stone can transform your outdoor living space into a stylish and durable oasis.
What is Gabion Stone?
Gabion stone consists of crushed rocks, such as limestone, sourced from local quarries and used as filler for gabion cages. These stones come in various sizes, with the most popular being 200-100mm. Gabions are welded or woven wire mesh cages made from coated or galvanized steel. Welded-mesh gabions, more rigid and suitable for architectural projects, contrast with the flexible woven-mesh baskets ideal for large retaining walls and civil engineering projects. Gabion baskets, filled with rocks, concrete, and other aggregates, serve various purposes, from road building and erosion control to landscaping and military uses.
Typical Uses of Gabion Stone
Gabion stone is primarily used for ground stabilization and erosion prevention. In residential settings, gabion stone is often utilized for retaining walls that require no foundation due to their weight and flexibility. Other common uses include mass retaining walls, terrace walls, channel linings, dam protection, and architectural applications. In landscaping, STONEarch Stone Grid Gabions can create artistic accent walls, seating bases, planters, and water feature surrounds.
Pros and Cons of Gabion Stone
Pros:
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Gabions provide a unique, natural look that enhances any landscape.
- Easy & Cost-Effective Installation: Gabions require no foundations, making installation straightforward and affordable.
- Long-Lasting: Coated steel and durable fillers resist corrosion, ensuring longevity.
- Flexible: Suitable for unstable ground and moving water, gabions adapt without losing functionality.
- Strong: Gabions can withstand floods, torrential force, and earth pressure.
- Permeable: Allowing water to drain easily, gabions eliminate the need for additional drainage systems.
- Eco-Friendly: Made from recycled materials and supporting plant growth, gabions are an environmentally friendly choice.
Cons:
- Style: The rugged appearance of gabions may not suit all landscape designs.
- Large Size: Gabions can be bulky and may not fit well in small spaces.
- Required Filler Size: Fillers must be larger than 3 inches in diameter to stay contained within the cage.
- Potential Home for Insects & Animals: The gaps in gabion fillers can attract small creatures.
How to Make a Gabion Basket
Gabion baskets are incredibly versatile and can enhance your outdoor space creatively. Whether as a patio accessory, stairway, pathway divider, firepit, planter, or sculpture, the possibilities are endless. Customizing your gabion basket can add a unique touch to your landscape design.
Materials Needed:
- Mesh Roll or Sheets
- Rebar Ties
- Connectors/Spiral Wires
- Pliers
- Rust Kill Solution
- Gloves
- Rocks
- Time
Steps to Make a Gabion Basket:
1. Determine the Size: Measure and mark the dimensions of your gabion basket.
2. Cut the Mesh: Cut the mesh roll or sheets to the required size using pliers.
3. Form the Basket: Bend the sides up to create the shape of the basket.
4. Prepare the Ends: Cut mesh pieces for the ends, trimming any sharp edges.
5. Assemble the Basket: Use rebar ties or spiral wires to connect the ends and form a secure basket structure.
6. Add Support Braces: If necessary, insert supporting braces inside the basket for added stability.
7. Fill the Basket: Place blocks or bricks in the center for a cost-effective approach and surround them with your desired rocks.
With these simple steps, you can create a durable and visually appealing gabion basket that suits your landscaping needs. Get creative and make a feature that stands out in your garden!
Unique Uses for Your Landscape
Gabion stone can add texture and visual interest to your backyard. Consider creative applications such as back-lit gabions filled with colored glass, walls filled with shells and shelves for plants or lanterns, capped seating walls, bases for planters and outdoor furniture, fireplace surrounds, and water features. The versatility of gabions allows for endless design possibilities.
Visit our website for more information and for expert advice.
5 Ways to Remodel Your Home Using Limestone
When planning a home remodel, choosing the right materials can make a significant difference in your space's overall aesthetic and functionality. Limestone, a versatile and durable natural stone, is an excellent option for various remodeling projects. Its timeless appeal, range of colors, and finishes make it a favorite among homeowners and designers alike. Here are some limestone options you should consider for your next remodel.
1. Limestone Walls
Limestone walls capture the timeless beauty of European architecture. Whether used as a privacy wall, garden surround, or retaining wall, limestone provides strength, longevity, and a charming aesthetic. Indoors, a limestone accent wall or walk-in shower adds a touch of historical richness to your home.
2. Limestone Flooring
Suitable for both interior and exterior use, limestone tiles and pavers are durable and water-resistant, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, patios, and living rooms. Available in various neutral shades, limestone flooring can match any decor. Opt for a honed or textured finish to prevent slipperiness and disguise scratches, and ensure regular sealing to protect your floor
STONEarch’s Buff Limestone is a favored option for flooring of upscale residences due to its neutral color and compatibility with Indiana Limestone. Its naturally textured surface adds an elegant touch, accentuating sophistication in modern landscape designs.
3. Limestone Door Surround
Inspired by the exquisite detail of Old World architecture, limestone door surrounds can transform a basic entryway into a stately focal point. Custom-crafted and ornately designed, these surrounds add elegance to both exterior and interior doors, enhancing curb appeal and interior charm.
4. Limestone Countertops
Limestone countertops offer a timeless and elegant aesthetic with their natural, earthy tones and unique patterns, making each piece one-of-a-kind. They are durable and heat-resistant, suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Despite being more affordable than other natural stones, limestone provides a high-end look that can add significant value to your home. With proper maintenance, limestone can last for decades, ensuring a beautiful and functional surface for years.
5. Limestone Stairs
Limestone’s natural durability and resistance to weathering make it a good choice for stairs. Its timeless beauty, showcased through a variety of colors and textures, enhances the visual appeal of any outdoor area, whether it's a garden path or a grand staircase leading to your entrance. Beyond its aesthetic charm, limestone provides a smooth and comfortable surface for walking, making it a practical choice for both residential and commercial outdoor spaces.
Limestone is an excellent choice for house remodeling due to its elegant appearance, versatility, and durability. This natural stone comes in a range of colors and finishes, making it suitable for various applications such as countertops, flooring, and accent walls. Its heat resistance and eco-friendliness add practical benefits, while its affordability compared to other natural stones makes it a cost-effective option. Limestone not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also adds value and longevity, ensuring a beautiful and functional space for years to come.
5 Tips for Choosing the Right Natural Stone for Your Outdoor BBQ
Designing an outdoor BBQ area is an exciting home improvement project that can elevate your outdoor living space and create a fantastic venue for entertaining. Choosing the right natural stone is one of the most crucial decisions in this process. The perfect stone adds aesthetic value and ensures durability and functionality.
Here’s a guide to help you in choosing your natural stone:
1. Understand the Types of Natural Stone
Natural stones come in various types, each with unique characteristics. The most popular options for outdoor BBQ areas include:
-Granite: Known for its strength and resistance to heat, granite is a durable choice that can withstand the high temperatures of a BBQ. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
-Slate: Slate is another robust option, offering a natural, rustic look. It's resistant to moisture and heat, making it ideal for outdoor settings.
-Limestone: This stone provides a classic look with light, warm colors. While durable, it can be more prone to staining and requires regular sealing.
-Sandstone: Known for its earthy tones and natural beauty, sandstone is softer and may need more maintenance to prevent weathering and erosion.
-Travertine: Travertine offers a luxurious appearance with its smooth finish and various colors. It is durable but more susceptible to staining if not properly sealed.
2. Consider Durability and Maintenance
Durability is key when choosing a stone for an outdoor BBQ. The stone must withstand various weather conditions and the heat from the grill. Granite and slate are excellent choices for their robustness and minimal maintenance needs. In contrast, although limestone and sandstone are attractive, they demand more maintenance to preserve their appearance and integrity.
A popular choice for granite is STONEarch’s BlackBerry Granite. This dark black granite, available exclusively in BBQ slabs for countertops and outdoor kitchens, perfectly complements our premium landscaping collection. Its surface, dotted with tiny crystals that reflect sunlight, makes it a favorite among high-end landscape contractors who seek the darkest black granite for outdoor kitchens or BBQ areas.
3. Evaluate Aesthetic Appeal
The stone you choose should complement your overall outdoor design. Take into account the stone's color, texture, and style. Granite and travertine offer a modern look, while slate and sandstone provide a more natural, rustic feel. Your choice should harmonize with other elements in your outdoor space, such as furniture, landscaping, and any existing stonework.
For those seeking a stone suitable for a country landscape theme, STONEarch's Saga is an excellent option. Saga is a quartzite sandstone featuring medium to dark shades of gray and beige. Its surface boasts a moderate to heavy natural texture, with distinctive striping that gives creative designs. The varied shades make Saga famous for bold, colorful, and creative hardscapes.
4. Assess Cost
Budget is always a consideration. Natural stones vary widely in price. Granite and travertine tend to be on the higher end, while sandstone and slate can be more affordable. Factors include not only the initial cost but also long-term maintenance expenses. Sometimes, initially investing in a more durable stone can save money on repairs and replacements.
5. Think About Installation
Some stones are easier to install than others. While heavy and durable, granite requires professional installation due to its weight and hardness. Lighter stones, such as sandstone and limestone, can be more manageable for DIY projects. However, professional installation is generally recommended for optimal results and the long-term durability of your BBQ area.
Choosing the suitable natural stone for your outdoor BBQ is a blend of aesthetics, durability, maintenance, cost, and environmental considerations. By understanding the characteristics of different stones and assessing your specific needs and preferences, you can select a stone that will create a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting outdoor BBQ area.
5 Design Ideas with Outdoor Travertine Tiles
When transforming outdoor spaces into luxurious retreats, the flooring choice is pivotal. Among the myriad options available, outdoor travertine tiles stand out as a timeless choice for their durability, versatility, and unmatched aesthetic appeal. From rustic patios to sleek poolside settings, applying travertine tiles introduces an aura of sophistication and natural charm. Let's explore design possibilities with outdoor travertine tiles, exploring how these exquisite elements can elevate any outdoor environment.
1. Poolside Paradise
Picture this – a serene oasis nestled amid verdant foliage, with a shimmering pool as its centerpiece. Now, envision the pool deck adorned with luxurious travertine with warm hues accentuated by the sun's gentle caress, such as the Ivory Mix Travertine, a popular choice for pool landscaping. Outdoor travertine tiles effortlessly exude a sense of luxury, making them the perfect choice for poolside settings. Their non-slip surface ensures safety, while their ability to remain cool underfoot adds to the comfort of lounging by the pool on scorching summer days.
2. Rustic Charm
For those yearning to infuse their outdoor spaces with a rustic allure, travertine tiles offer an ideal solution. Whether used to pave winding pathways or create cozy seating areas, their natural texture and earthy tones seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape. Pair them with weathered wooden furniture, wrought iron accents, and lush greenery to evoke the ambiance of a Tuscan villa or a Mediterranean retreat. The result? A charming outdoor sanctuary that beckons one to unwind and reconnect with nature.
3. Alfresco Dining Delight
Alfresco dining experiences with outdoor travertine tiles like the Gray Mix Travertine are elevated to new heights. Whether adorning a spacious patio or a quaint terrace, these tiles set the stage for memorable gatherings with friends and family. Create an inviting ambiance by arranging elegant outdoor furniture atop a bed of travertine tiles, complemented by soft lighting and vibrant foliage. As the sun sets and candles flicker, the enchanting beauty of travertine tiles casts a spell, transforming every meal into a culinary celebration.
4. Contemporary Elegance
In modern outdoor settings characterized by clean lines and minimalist aesthetics, travertine tiles are the epitome of sophistication. Their sleek surface and understated elegance lend a sense of refinement to outdoor lounges, rooftop terraces, and urban gardens. Paired with sleek furniture designs and geometric accents, travertine tiles add a touch of luxury without overpowering the space. The result is a seamless fusion of modern design and natural elegance that captivates the senses.
5. Versatile Landscaping
Beyond traditional applications, outdoor travertine tiles offer endless possibilities for creative landscaping endeavors. From cascading water features to ornate mosaics, these versatile tiles can be fashioned into various shapes and sizes to suit any design vision. Whether used as stepping stones in a Japanese-inspired garden or as cladding for retaining walls, their enduring beauty and resilience make them a preferred choice for landscape architects and designers alike.
Outdoor travertine tiles emerge as a quintessential element in outdoor design, offering a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. Whether seeking to evoke a sense of rustic charm or contemporary elegance, these timeless tiles are the cornerstone of luxurious outdoor environments. With their innate ability to withstand the elements while exuding timeless allure, travertine tiles stand as a testament to the enduring beauty of natural stone.
Visit STONEarch for more inspiration.