Is there truly a difference between patio stones and stepping stones? Can patio stones be applied as stepping stones? We’ll answer the following questions in this article, as well as provide you with essential information about these landscape materials.

What Are Patio Stones?

Patio stones are usually Interlocking, unlike Concrete, Asphalt, and other solid patio materials. Likewise they are durable, flexible, and hold together quite well. Secondly they can withstand pressure, heavy traffic, and everyday wear and tear. Because of these, patio stones are not prone to cracking and you can easily replace one if necessary.

These stones are natural and not manmade, which is why no two stones are ever the same. Additionally, the hardscape material is available in a wide array of sizes, textures, colours, and shapes. Therefore, you’ll find a stone that will fit all your requirements with ease. You can even lay them on various patterns and designs to resemble a surface with flat tiles.

The most common patio stones used today are the following:

Sandstone:

Sandstone is a popular option because of its ease of installation. Aside from that, it is very versatile and long-lasting, making it an excellent material for any patio.

Limestone:

Limestone is a stunning yet durable natural stone used in structures across the globe. It is available in a variety of colours, from light cream like STONEarch Crema Nova to darker ones like STONEarch Black. Therefore, you can arrange various types of limestones to create a unique patio that will stand out among the rest. Moreover, you can install this stone as indoor flooring as well.

Slate:

Slate is one of the toughest patio stones around that can take on outdoor elements. Also it can place directly onto soil without having to worry about any corrosion happening. Ideally this is one of the easiest patio stones to use if you want to create a uniform look for your outdoor space, which also helps increase its aesthetic appeal.

Travertine:

Travertine is not only strong but a handsome patio stone. Reason being is that It combines rough looks with natural tones. Therefore, this natural stone is perfect if you want your patio to have a rustic charm to it.

What Are Stepping Stones?

One of the main purposes of stepping stones is to protect your plants and the entire garden. They serve as a solid place where people can step in to avoid damaging your lovely plants and grass. You can even use it to separate zones in your garden.

Likewise, you can create a practical and safe walkway for you and your guests that can lead everyone to the front door of your garden. Another one of its functions is as a decorative element if you want to give your outdoor area a unique personalized feature.

Stepping stone materials are available in different types, which means you will be able to find one that suits your landscape design, taste, and personality. Natural stone is one of the most popular materials for installing stepping stones because of its extreme durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions.

Flagstone, granite, sandstone, and slate, are some of the most common natural stones used for stone paths. There are many ways on how you can design your garden’s stepping stones. You can create larger paths, group smaller stones together, or line up their straight edges. If you want something distinct, you can even ask your stone supplier to customize a cut that is suitable for your needs.

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Your backyard is a great area in your property to create a charming and cozy place where you and your family can relax. Aside from this, there are many things you can do here, from entertaining and grilling to reading and gardening.

Yard size does not matter as long as it’s inviting and comfortable to your liking. There are plenty of available landscaping options that allow you to make the most out of it. With that in mind, here are some simple ways on how to make your backyard look spacious.

Create A Functional Space

Strategically placing pieces of furniture and utilizing built-ins can create various rooms with different functions. You can create an area where you and your guests can mingle, It can be used for lounging, cooking and dining. Additionally you can even combine all the previous ideas for the ultimate backyard for entertainment.

Use A Pathway To Create A Focal Point

Typically, people will look at your backyard as a whole. It’s very easy to recognize how narrow or how little your space is at first glance. Fortunately, you can easily change the perception of your guests by leading their curious eyes to a distinct focal point to focus upon.

One of the things you can consider is installing a pathway in your backyard by using STONEarch natural stone pavers. Doing so can help establish a certain feeling of movement throughout your space. If you’re planning to divide your space, it’s a good idea to install a pathway into every zone.

Incorporate Outdoor Lighting

Installing soft, glowing lightings can offers dimension at night in narrow backyards or gardens. The key here is to incorporate it with diverse outdoor lighting. These include washes for your walls, accent lights to highlight your beautiful plants, and for safety, make sure to add path lights on your natural stone walkway. Another idea you can consider is to use track lighting under your benches. This will make it seem like they are floating.

Go Bold With Colours

Small or narrow backyards don’t usually provide you with a lot of possibilities in terms of adding visual interests that pop in comparison to more spacious ones. Nevertheless, one of the best and easiest solutions for this is to use bold colours. Similar to what you’d do with your home’s interior, you can apply vibrant hues through throw pillows and cushions to enhance your seating.

You may also want to put a subtle touch of nature in the mix. For instance, you can add a lovely pop of colour to your space with flowers in season. Try to stick to at least 2 to 3 tones if you want to pull off something that looks together. Then, design your whole backyard using the same colour palette for a cohesive look.

Embrace The Sunlight

One of the things you want for your narrow backyard is to keep it airy and open. So avoid putting awnings, pergolas, and other massive overhead architecture pieces in it. When you let the sun in, it will give your garden a feeling that it is brighter and bigger. Plus, it’s a great way to get an essential dose of Vitamin D every day.

Create An Illusion Of Height With Vertical Landscaping

Adding your narrow backyard with more width is highly likely. To resolve this, what you can do is to cheat height with vertical landscaping. Going upwards will create an illusion that you have more space than what you have. The reason for this is because when you view your space, your vertical landscaping will stimulate the eyes to consider height, which in turn, making it seem roomier.

When creating your vertical landscape, use different types of plants with various heights. This can help maximize the visual interest you can bring to your yard. Consider adding stoic perennials, shady trees, and other tall plants. Likewise, you may also stack up shorter plants in there using flower beds.

Include Grade Changes

To give your narrow backyard some definition while creating multiple destinations, modify the level of its various areas. If there’s a sloped area in there, installing a terrace is the most obvious solution. Nonetheless, grade changes are also beneficial to a flat garden. You may consider adding a sunken patio stone by removing the soil or create a raised deck below your outdoor seating area.

Simplicity Is Beauty

It’s exciting to decorate any space. And once that excitement kicks in, we tend to throw in ideas after ideas. The next thing you know, your narrow garden has too much stuff in it that it can actually ruin your great space.

Please keep in mind that less is more, and your backyard will feel tighter with the more elements you incorporate it with. So avoid large furniture and try to incorporate clean lines and built-in seatings instead. Additionally, make sure your plants are unified with the space to allow a good flow and to give the allusion of more space and that will allow your narrow backyard to be transformed into a cozy outdoor sanctuary.

One of the most important parts of building a new driveway or replacing your old one is choosing the right material. Regardless of whether your driveway has had the same material for years, you may find something more suitable for the requirements you currently have.

In terms of material, you have a few options to choose from. But the most common ones are asphalt, concrete, and stones. Each of these comes with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, aesthetics, lifespan, and durability. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between them in order to help you find the best driveway material to make an informed decision.

Natural Stone Driveway

Driveways made from stones are for their durability, beauty, and long-lasting performance. There are plenty of paving stones to choose from, including the most popular; flagstone and cobbles. Additionally, STONEarch natural stones are available in a wide range of stunning colours and unique patterns.

Nevertheless, homeowners do not have it on top of their list since it’s not the cheapest option. The reason for this is because the pavers must be properly lined up during installation, along with ensuring that its foundation has been leveled correctly. Hiring a professional to install your natural stone driveway will play a major role in how well the end result will turn out.

But despite its upfront cost, Natural Stone driveways do not require a lot of maintenance. They’re also extremely durable and will last for one hundred years. And if one needs to be replaced simply swap it out with a new one, It really is  that easy.

Pros of Natural Stone Driveway:

• Properly laid pavers can last for as long as a century.
• Each natural stone is unique and no pieces are the same. Likewise, they have plenty of character, making the material an excellent option if you want to add curb appeal to your home.
• It will add more aesthetic value to your property.
• Paving stones like granite require little to no upkeep and easy to replace.
• A natural stone driveway is a perfect choice for Canada’s heavy snowfall since you can install a heating system underneath it to prevent the accumulation of snow.
• You have a wide variety of options, allowing you to create just about any driveway style, from rustic and classic to contemporary.
• Stones have natural hues that can help conceal stains and other marks due to heavy traffic.
• Natural stones have a non-slip surface, providing you with traction.
• This material is very tough and can withstand your car’s heavyweight.
• An eco-friendly option.

Cons of Natural Stone Driveway:

• Stone driveways are a bit expensive, and their labor is intensive as well. But its durability, easy upkeep, and value will add to your home, making it a worthwhile investment.
• Depending on the paving stone you choose, it may need more groundwork before it can be installed.
• Laying the stones is time-consuming in comparison to pouring concrete on the surface.

Concrete Driveway

Affordability is the main reason why homeowners always opt for concrete driveways, along with flexibility. Aside from these, the surface of a well-executed poured concrete driveway is dense and strong. Moreover, you can pour concrete to create either curved or straight lines. This means that it will give you enough versatility to build a driveway that can accommodate the restrictions of your neighborhood.

Your concrete driveway can last for many years. But its repair may put a dent on your budget and may give you a headache. Restoring a damaged poured concrete driveway is pretty tricky. You can patch the surface, but it will leave obvious and unsightly marks behind. Meanwhile, if there are massive spots that patching will not be able to take care, it may need to be entirely torn out and redone.

Pros of Concrete Driveway:

• Versatile and durable driveway material.
• It can withstand any climate condition.
• Plain poured concrete is a budget-friendly option. But you can also opt for exposed aggregate if you have a little more budget to spare.
• You can update its look with paint, or for something unique, you can have it stamped.
• Hiring a professional to pour the concrete will make it durable.
• Requires minimal upkeep. You can sweep the surface easily and use your pressure washer or a mild detergent to wash it.

Cons of Concrete Driveway:

• It’s not as aesthetically pleasing as STONEarch natural stones.
• Prone to cracking is one of its biggest drawbacks.
• It’s nearly impossible to repair a section of it without having to rip your entire concrete driveway.
• Installing a concrete driveway is relatively quick, but you have to wait at least a week to use it.
• Although it can take on any weather conditions, it may not hold up through the Canadian winter.

Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt is another popular material for driveways because of its affordable price tag and enduring quality. Your asphalt driveway can last for up to 15 years with proper installation and care. Just like a stone driveway, this type can also withstand colder climates and pressure very well.

Although it may acquire cracks or holes over time, its repair is easier in comparison to a concrete driveway. Patching its cracks is fairly easy. Additionally, you can protect the surface of your asphalt driveway and restore its original black colour by seal coating it every three years or so.

Pros of Asphalt Driveway:

• A properly installed asphalt driveway has that concrete feel and function, but it will not cost as much.
• The flexible material is less likely to acquire cracks when exposed to elements.
• Repairs are easy and cheap.

Cons of Asphalt Driveway:

• You have to seal it every few years.
• Your asphalt driveway can get really hot during summertime.
• It is not as long-lasting as natural stone driveways.

Deciding to use natural stone for your project is easy since this landscape material is durable, beautiful, and will make your property stand out. But choosing the right type of landscape stone and finish is a whole different story. Natural stone production differs from one quarry to the next.

So when shopping around for natural stones, make sure to ask the following questions to help educate yourself and ensure you select the right types of landscape stone for your particular project:

How porous is the stone of my choice?

Natural stones are not created equally. Some natural stones are more porous than others. If a stone with a more porous surface comes into contact with acidic substances, it may become damaged and require cleaning & sealing of the surface.

So when you already have a stone in mind, make sure to consider where you’ll install or use it. For example, selecting a lighter coloured limestone is perfectly fine for an area with many trees and leaves, but it would be a good idea to seal the stone so it maintains its clean look. Our White Star granite, on the other hand, doesn’t need to be sealed and can be utilized in any residential or commercial project due to the high density and little water absorption in this white granite.

How thick do I need my stones to be?

If you’ll use natural stones as tiles for your walls or floors, opt for 3/8 inch thick. The thickness you need for BBQs or outdoor kitchen countertops is usually 2 inches thick. On the other hand, natural stone pavers used for exterior applications are about 1 inch to 1.25 inches thick. For higher-end residential projects and commercial landscaping, many landscape architects will opt for using 2 inch thick natural stone pavers or flagstone, to add greater strength and stability for the overall project.

What are the finishes you offer?

The finish on natural stones depends a lot on the application – interior or exterior – and also the type of wear and tear you expect to occur on the surface. Our specialty is outdoor landscape stone so we offer various finishes suitable for outdoor use. The most popular finishes for outdoor stone are natural or clefted, sandblasted, flamed, honed, tumbled, and antique-washed.

The finish can substantially change the look of the stone. For example, some of our granites and limestones come with flamed and brushed finishes, that have a unique and very clean, modern appearance. This heavy texture is achieved thanks to a combination of heat and brushing. A brushed granite can sometimes be far richer and darker in tone as well, such as our STONEarch Onyx Black, which is one of the darkest black granites on the market today and is often used as the best replacement for Cambrian Black.

The stone finish you choose will largely depend on your preference and taste unless safety is your main concern. In general, larger-sized tiles and those with a more polished finish tend to be more slippery when your shoes or feet are wet. If that’s the case, then opt for a finish with more texture. The most suitable stone finish for commercial landscape projects including hotels, plazas, condo terraces, and office buildings, is flamed or flamed and brushed.

Will the sample match well with the actual stone you’ll deliver?

Stones are natural materials. This means that their colours will vary. If consistency is worrying you, you can request multiple samples to get a sense of the variation in the stone. Also, take a look at our project gallery or visit our 5000+ square feet outdoor showroom which is the largest landscape stone showroom in Ontario.

For example, you may ask for 2-3 pieces of stone samples in a particular size. Doing so will allow you to see what you can expect to get in a standard pallet. Evaluate each paver, and if you notice that there’s a tremendous amount of variation in the stone’s colour range, then consider a different option that is more consistent or ask the supplier for a good alternative.

Do I need to seal my natural stone?

Usually, sealants are used on natural stone to darken it. Likewise, it can provide it with a honed or textured surface for a shinier look. So if you’re thinking about sealing your stones, consider asking for a professional sealer company to show you a small sample area that is sealed. This will help you visualize how it may change the look of your stone patio or pool deck and help you decide if you would like to seal the rest of your project. It’s always advisable to seal lighter coloured natural stones, especially when they are exposed to trees, leaves, moss or salt. We also recommend sealing our STONEarch Black limestone to prevent it from fading from UV/sunlight.

One of the best ways to make your outdoor space functional and comfortable is to build a patio in your backyard. Not only will you have a place for the entire family to relax, but it will improve the overall aesthetic of your property.

Nevertheless, the last thing you want is to break your bank account, especially if you’re on a tight budget. But you also don’t want to sacrifice the quality of your landscape stones. On top of that, you want something beautiful & durable, that can withstand the test of time.

Fortunately, there are plenty of available patio materials on the market today that will fit your budget. With that in mind, here are the cheapest patio stones to consider for your next project:

Natural Stone

STONEarch natural stone is one of the most beautiful yet toughest patio stones today. Aside from that, it’s also scratch-resistant with natural weathering that makes it surface non-slip. Hence, it’s a safe option for your patio.

With all of these fantastic features, you may be thinking that for sure it comes with a high price tag. Technically, the upfront cost of natural stones is a bit more than plain concrete slabs. Also, there are factors that will impact its price. These include the type of stone, the thickness, and the finish on the surface of the stone.

However, with proper upkeep, your natural stone will serve you for many years. Its lifespan can outlast all the other alternative patio options out there. Plus, it’s easier to maintain in comparison to other stone materials as well. What’s more, it will age gracefully no matter the weather it’s exposed to all year round, including heavy snow and strong winds.

Furthermore, they shift with the ground. Therefore, natural stones are not likely to crack and disintegrate over time. If one of your natural stones does break, it is usually as a result of an improper base and the problem can be easily remedied by replacing the broken piece or pieces.

Your initial investment may be a little higher, but stone will pay for it over time since you’ll save on maintenance and replacement. So when shopping for the cheapest patio stones, don’t just look at the price tag. Make sure to also consider the stone’s maintenance and quality. You may be saving a few dollars now, but face costly repairs in the future.

The cheapest and most popular patio we have right now is Black limestone. If you’re having a hard time deciding which stone to use, you can contact our team to help you out. They’ll be able to answer any of your questions so that you can make an informed decision.

Pebbles

Pebbles are easy to install and another cheap patio stone material. These stones can provide your outdoor space with a charming, lovely appearance. The low-cost landscape material option does not require setting or hardening. Therefore, you can create any shape of patio you want with ease. Even if you’re a newbie to hardscaping, you’ll find it relatively simple to install. And with the right care, your pebble patio will last a lifetime.

Our polished pebbles come in 1-ton bags or individual 25kg bags, so make sure to check them out if you want to get more value for your money.

Armour Rock

Armour stone is another cheap option for your patio. This naturally quarried stone is very tough and can resist erosion as well as everyday wear. It is available in various shapes and sizes. Therefore, you can stack it to create an impressive entrance to your patio, distinct retaining walls, rock gardens that look natural, and striking water features. Armour rock is primarily used in more rustic applications due to its irregular shapes, sizes, and colours. It is an excellent complement to natural stones such as STONEarch Slate Gray and STONEarch Dove.

Concrete

A slab of plain poured concrete may seem boring but you have a stamped pattern option. For a more natural look, you can dye it using a colouring agent. This material is very popular and one of the cheapest patio stones you can get your hands on if you want a clean, consistent (repetitive) look to your patio.

However, one of its biggest drawbacks is issues with its maintenance. This means that you need to reapply the coating of your concrete patio at least every couple of years to maintain its colour. Furthermore, its colour tends to fade over time, particularly in areas receiving heavy foot traffic. On top of that, it is prone to showing surface cracks. Thereby, it is a better paving option in frost-free regions not subject to temperatures below zero degrees celsius.

Bricks

If you want a classic look, brick is a patio stone to consider. Also, you can find salvaged bricks that are cheaper than regular ones and are more eco-friendly. Sometimes however, older-style salvaged are actually a premium in the market due to their rustic appearance and history. This type of patio stone is porous, which means water can flow through it easily.

Brick patios will not erode as easily. Nonetheless, the hardscape material will likely crack or break from freezing temperatures or stress. Also, you don’t have a lot of choice in terms of colour and you can’t dye it as well. Still, you’ll be able to achieve a unique look by arranging the bricks in various patterns and the classic cobblestone-look is a nice option if your project is for a traditional, rustic home.

These days, you have more options in terms of stone materials for your landscape project, with black granite on top of that list. Natural stone suppliers in Canada have their own version of black granite. Some of the most popular black granites for outdoor landscaping are Jet Black, Midnight Black, Cambrian Black, and New Ebony from STONEarch.

Like all natural stones, every piece of granite is different and unique. For instance, our New Ebony granite has that classic velvet appearance that can provide your landscape with a stunning and mesmerising aesthetic. Meanwhile, our Onyx Black is the darkest and most exquisite granite available on the market today. Onyx Black can be used outside and it is available in large size formats for outdoor kitchens and BBQ countertops.

There’s no denying that black granite creates a bold statement. Most landscape materials have some variation in colour, however black granite takes consistency to a whole new level. And whatever style you want, from classic to rustic and elegant to trendy, black granite is colour that doesn’t go out of style and remains a timeless feature for decades to come.

But no matter how much we love black granite, there are times when it’s simply not the right one suitable for your home or taste. So if you’re finding it difficult or expensive to get Jet Black, Midnight Black or Cambrian Black granite, we have four alternatives that are readily available at STONEarch – Carbon Basalt, Onyx Black, New Ebony and Black Limestone.

Carbon Basalt

Carbon is a black granite alternative with enduring quality. This basalt stone can withstand harsh weather and tough winter salt. Hence, it will serve you for many years. But what makes the hardscape material stand out is its medium-dark gray hues combined with dark gray flecks, making it ruggedly handsome. What’s more, it has a flamed top finish, allowing for a non-skid surface while providing a natural texture with more dimension. Basalt stone is one of the most durable stones available on the planet, as it is formed through thousands of years of volcanic rock and compression, making it more dense and durable than some granites.

Onyx Black

Onyx Black is an extremely exquisite alternative to black granite. It has a very dark black shade that will look almost black even in broad daylight. One of the most distinctive features of this granite is its finish with fine crystals that will sparkle under the sunlight. This natural stone is perfect to pair with our New Ebony granite or Carbon basalt pavers. It’s designed to be a focal point for an outdoor kitchen due to the unique finish and vibrant crystallization.

New Ebony

When STONEarch introduced Ebony granite to the market, it became one of the most sought-after natural stones, particularly in custom homes. New Ebony is our latest version of black granite. We made some improvements in this granite, making it the most premium stone for all landscape architects, home builders, and contractors alike.

It features medium to dark shades of black and has that classic velvet charm that will bring your modern landscape designs to a whole new level. Moreover, it is elegant, long-lasting, and has a flamed finish that makes for an anti-skid surface suitable in all climates.

New Ebony granite is the most popular alternative to Cambrian Black and Jet Black particularly in higher-end residential and most commercial landscape projects. We can also offer specialized custom options such as black granite benches, black granite curbs, and polished black granite fountains.

Black Limestone

Black Limestone is a very unique and durable dolomite limestone, making it a good option in place of Kota Black if you’re looking for a stone that is very consistent and uniform in black tones. Therefore, it’s perfect for achieving a bold and striking landscape. In fact, it’s one of the top choices of landscape architects, contractors, and builders in terms of black natural stones.

One thing to remember with this stone is that it is a limestone which makes it less durable than a granite. We recommend sealing our black limestone as it will fade from UV over time losing its rich, dark black colour. This is the most cost effective natural stone that we sell, however it’s important to remember it is a limestone which is less durable than our Basalt and Granite natural stone options discussed earlier in this article.