One of the most popular landscape materials for both commercial and residential use is natural stone. It is widely used in all sorts of indoor and outdoor projects, from steps and flooring to decorative walling stones and for enhancing the curb appeal of your home.

Natural stones come in a wide variety of stunning colours and possess unique characteristics that you won’t find in any other landscape material. They offer numerous creative features for architects, contractors, and homeowners alike.

However, most people do not truly understand how to pick high-quality natural stones. Likewise, they have no idea how to choose a reliable wholesaler with the right knowledge of various products.

No matter what landscaping project you’re planning, it’s vital to ensure that you’re sourcing your stone materials from a reputable natural stone supplier. Aside from the stone’s quality, the service of each supplier will vary as well.

Here are the important questions to ask your natural stone supplier:

Where Do You Usually Source Your Natural Stone Products?

The distinct quality of natural stone will widely depend on the region where it is sourced. For instance, Moderno Beige is a neutral limestone most commonly found in Spain. It will not have the same authentic feel if it comes from other parts of the world. And although you can find natural stones in almost every corner of the globe, their quality will not be the same.

That’s what makes STONEarch different from other natural stone suppliers out there. You can find our quarries all over the world equipped with the latest and most advanced equipment. We also travel from east to west to provide you with the finest and most premium natural stone products for your projects.

Our sourcing team has 20+ years of experience in hand-selecting and curating the most elite collection of natural stones designed specifically for our North American climate.

How Do You Manufacture Your Products?

The manufacturing process of natural stone, from quarrying to the end product, is extensive. Stone products are mined based on their value, structure, and type.

Blasting is the oldest and the most harmful method in terms of the rock’s extraction and processing. This method sends shock waves to the structure of the rock. As a result, it creates fine aggregates in stones like granite. Hence, it’s only utilised for emergency purposes.

Another quarrying method is by applying modern expanding foam and drilling holes, which separates the stone gently. This also avoids microcracks and is more cost-effective.

When searching for the best natural stone supplier, make sure that they provide you with plenty of information about how their products are manufactured and the stone itself. This will help you in narrowing down your choices and making the right decision for your landscape project.

Do You Have A Comprehensive Product Collection?

Most suppliers source their stone products from other wholesalers. Building and landscaping projects involve plenty of moving components. There are times when you choose rare materials that other companies cannot provide. Hence, it’s crucial to opt for a natural stone supplier that has an extensive colour selection.

Fortunately, you can find more than 250 products and over 1000 SKUs at STONEarch, allowing you to create exquisite landscapes and masonry construction projects. We have a wide selection of premium landscaping stones to help turn your vision into reality. Simply contact us at any time, and our team will assist you in any way they can.

Can You Deliver My Orders In A Timely Manner?

Any project, no matter how big or small, can dramatically develop. And not having quick access to the materials you need can put a halt on your project. For this reason, you must work with a wholesaler that stocks enough supply of your choice of natural stone.

STONEarch is the largest wholesale distributor of natural stone products in North America. Our headquarters holds more than 1 million square feet of natural stone pavers, copings, steps, BBQ slabs, pillar caps, and a complete range of all products. This helps us ensure prompt delivery to all customers so they can get their projects completed on time and within budget.

Summer is in full swing. And there’s no better time to look at the 2020 swimming pool trends to see what upgrades your pool needs. This year, it’s no longer about the traditional, white rectangular backyard pool. Homeowners are now considering various aesthetics, sizes, designs, and accessorising their backyard oasis.

Throughout the years, numerous pool trends paved the way for innovations and customisations in terms of pool design. Today, we’ll dive into some of the unique pool design trends and inspirations that will be big this year. So if you’re planning to transform your outdoor space into a staycation mecca this summer, here are the best 2020 pool trends to consider:

• High-quality, premium materials
• Dark pool interior
• Ambient lighting
• Combining water and fire
• Built-in bars and ledges
• Multi-level pool

High-Quality, Premium Materials

It’s now easier to build the pool of your dreams these days. Unlike before, your choice of materials is no longer limited. In terms of custom pool designs, you have plenty of high-quality, premium material options out there to create an ultimate staycation space for the entire family.

One of the trending high-end materials for some time now is natural stone pavers. Not only do STONEarch pavers look stunning but they’re also elegant and come in a wide range of price points. Hence, you can find a material suitable for your budget.

Most pools feature the traditional light blue tone to mimic the colour of the sea. However, a lot of pool owners are opting to furnish their swimming pools with a darker pool finish to achieve that lagoon-like setting.

But there’s more to these 2020 pool trends than just the looks. The increase in the popularity of the dark pool interior is due to the many benefits it can provide you. Often, a dark finish retains and absorbs heat and sunlight better. This, in turn, can help lower your monthly energy bills, especially in cooler months. You’ll need to keep your pool heater on for a shorter period of time when you have a dark pool liner that absorbs more sunlight.

What’s more, dust and debris will not be as noticeable in pools with a darker interior. Plus, your guest will surely be impressed when they see how stunning and unique your pool looks, especially with pool lighting at night time.

Ambient Lighting

This pool trend is a big hit last year and it will continue influencing the 2020 pool design trends. The use of lighting around and within your poolscape, such as LED or smart lights are more energy-efficient. Also, aside from having a longer lifespan, they are available in a variety of colours that can help spice up your pool space.

This means that everyone will have a great time swimming at night surrounded by a colourful and visually striking environment. Additionally, you can easily change your pool’s colour anytime you want.

Combining Water And Fire

Combining fire and water is very aesthetically pleasing. That’s why adding a fire pit or fire feature along with a waterfall or hot-tub is an extremely popular 2020 pool design trend. You can achieve this easily by incorporating a fire feature in your pool area, including a fireplace, fire pit, or fire bowl.

Built-In Bars And Ledges

Pools were no longer just for taking a dip during the hot summer months. Nowadays, it serves as a place to lounge and socialise. No doubt, your pool is one of the best places in your property to relax under the sun. But now, it offers far more than that. You’re not limited to merely sitting on the poolside or floating around on your raft while getting a tan.

Built-in bars are an upcoming pool trend in 2020 which enables you to create a much more entertaining pool area that everyone will love. You can include built-in bars or ledges, as well as put lounge chairs on a sundeck or directly in the shallow part of your pool. Another option you have is to place bar stools and benches in your swimming pool to create social seating areas.

Multi-Level Pool

The multi-level pool design trend can give your backyard mecca the ultimate getaway vibe, similar to vacation resorts and hotels. This concept can create a sense of escape that feeling of being home away from home. So, it’s like having your own relaxing retreat right there in your backyard.

Whenever you’re investing in a project, you have to ensure you’re getting the right quality to price ratio in terms of material. Likewise, you want its price to suit the budget in mind.

From installing a backyard pool to something as simple as adding stone steps in your garden, it’s vital that you’re sourcing your natural stone from a reputable and reliable supplier. Aside from the stone’s quality, the service of each supplier will vary as well.

However, it’s a bit challenging to know if you have chosen the best company since there are many businesses supplying natural stone in Canada.

So what do you look for in a natural stone supplier? Here are the most important things to take into consideration when you’re searching for the right natural stone company for your needs.

Industry Experience

Verifying the years of experience of a company in the natural industry is one of the first things you need to do. The number of years of experience in the business, particularly of the owners, is proof of its reliability. It’s also an indication that the products and services they’re offering are excellent and they will be around in case you have any concerns.

Moreover, a company’s experience in supplying natural stones means that they’ve established a reputation among their business partners and clients alike.

So make sure to do your research. You may ask recommendations from an architect or contractor you know. There’s nothing more valuable than the feedback of previous clients. STONEarch has been around for 20+ years and our CEO has an architectural education, which allows us to service our clients with the utmost knowledge and care.

Extensive Selection Of Products

You don’t have to suffer in terms of extensive product selection just because you want high quality stone pavers or flagstone. The right natural stone supplier will present you with a stunning product catalogue and a great colour selection to match.

At STONEarch, you’ll find a wide range of stones, from granite, sandstone, and limestone to travertine, basalt, and slate. We are the largest wholesale distributor of natural stone products in North America. This means that you can get everything you need to turn your vision into reality under one roof. Furthermore, you can enjoy better prices for your bulk orders.

Easy Access To Materials

Some natural stone companies acquire their inventory from other suppliers. Meanwhile, some have their own quarrying facilities. What you need to look for here is a stone supplier that will be able to provide you with all the landscape materials you need in case you want to expand your project in the future.

Good thing that’s not a problem with STONEarch. We have quarries located across the globe. Moreover, we are armed with the best and state-of-the-art equipment available today. This means that we can procure natural stones of the utmost quality and you’ll be able to get a consistent supply of a full range of natural stone pavers, copings and steps.

Excellent Manufacturing Process

It’s crucial for natural stone suppliers to have experts who will scrutinise every single detail of the production and refinement process. Doing so will ensure that the edge profile, size, and thickness of all stones are consistent. We have a team of highly trained professionals in the manufacturing industry that keep a close eye on our products and quality standards.

That’s the reason why every natural stone we deliver to homes and commercial establishments are beautiful and high-quality. Hence, opting for a natural stone supplier that is in charge of its own production standards is always an asset for a landscape contractor or landscape supplier of natural stone.

Outstanding Customer Service

Every customer like you only deserves an amazing experience right off the bat, from the time you pick up your phone to inquire to the moment your hardscape materials are delivered to you. And that’s the STONEarch difference. Aside from consistently delivering premium natural stone products, we strive for exceptional customer service.

Our team will be able to help you find the best natural stone suitable for your project, requirements, and budget. Because of this, our company is recognized as one of the leading landscape stone suppliers in North America.

Dependable Delivery Services

Natural stone suppliers offer various delivery options. But go for a supplier that provides delivery services from reputable companies. Not only will this help you save money, but you’ll receive a hassle-free customer service and have peace of mind knowing that your orders will arrive at your project safely without damage.

STONEarch ensures timely deliveries by maintaining more than 1 million square feet of natural stone at our headquarters in North America. That’s as big as putting together 15 NFL-sized football fields.

We provide reliable delivery of premium natural stones throughout North America, including Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Vancouver, Calgary, Michigan, New York, and Illinois, to name a few. On top of that, we also offer free shipping for your bulk or wholesale orders! Just make sure to contact us to check if you qualify for it.

Creating a stunning outdoor living space is an excellent way to improve your property and its value. Whether you plan to build a wood deck or a hardscaped patio, both options are affordable projects of extending your living area. Moreover, you’ll have a unique space for relaxation and entertaining your guests. Therefore, your return on investment is quite significant.

Once you’ve decided the right area for your outdoor space, the next thing to consider is which is the best option for you, a wood deck or stone patio? Usually, decks are created using composite materials. On the other hand, patios use hardscape materials like natural stone pavers or concrete pavers. A hardscape patio offers a more practical solution, on top of being beautiful. Still, whatever type of outdoor living area you plan to build, your home’s value is sure to increase.

Installation

A wooden deck has always been a popular choice among homeowners when they want to enhance their backyard. There are a few good reasons why you may opt for a wooden deck.

First, it’s elevated in comparison to a hardscape patio, which needs to be built from the ground. This may help save you some valuable space. Hence, this may just be the solution you need if you have sloping yards or if you want a balcony space. Secondly, wood is an easier material to cut and may be more suitable for a DIY project for your backyard or patio.

Nevertheless, it’s still easy to install a paving patio from the ground. This is especially true if you already have a flat space in mind to build it. On top of that, hardscape materials like STONEarch natural stone pavers are a superb alternative for building your elevated deck. These materials are extremely durable and will provide your outdoor living space with timeless elegance.

Maintenance

Another important thing you need to consider when choosing between a wood deck and a stone patio is maintenance. Wooden decks require plenty of upkeep since you need to protect the wood to prevent it from rotting and degrading. This means that you need to clean your wood deck and apply protective coatings often, including staining, varnish, and sealers.

Meanwhile, a patio made from paver requires little to no maintenance. You only need to clean it occasionally using a garden hose. Likewise, you may need to reseal it, which you only need to do once very few years and is especially true depending on the type of stone that is selected or if a lighter stone has been used.

Lifespan

Without a doubt, a hardscape patio will outlast a wooden deck, especially if you don’t take care of your wood deck properly. Although you can prolong the life of your deck with regular maintenance, it will put a dent in your budget. Also, its lifespan will not be as long as natural stone pavers if you decide to use the material. A natural stone patio is more long-lasting, and its maintenance will not give you a headache.

What’s more, you also have to consider the Canadian weather. A poorly constructed wood deck can easily collapse from the extra weight of snow. Then there’s the risk of fires during the summertime that you need to worry about.

When a fire breaks in your home, a flammable outdoor feature will not do you any good. So in this scenario, a hardscape patio made with natural stone is the better and more practical choice to prevent putting your house at risk from unexpected natural disasters.

Aesthetic And Design

It’s also essential to think about how your outdoor area will look. Of course, you want it to be as aesthetically pleasing as possible. So before making any decisions on which outdoor project to go for, evaluate the rest of your backyard first.

A natural stone patio is the best option if you want your outdoor living space to blend with its surrounding environment. Likewise, it will work perfectly with other design elements you may want to include, such as a firepit, water feature, retaining wall, and other hardscaping you have in mind.

Also, one of the biggest misconceptions about hardscape patios is that they’re not as warm as a wooden deck. On the contrary, you will be able to create a patio with a welcoming and warm ambiance by incorporating it with a range of elements, designs, and colours. All you need is a bit of creativity and the right material, and you’ll have the outdoor living space that you’ve always dreamt of. To bring warmth to a stone patio, consider adding a firepit, bright colour cushions, some STONEarch artificial turf for greenery or even a nice stone fountain.

So when you choose to install a hardscape stone patio and have questions in mind, do not hesitate to contact our team. We are more than willing to help you plan an aesthetically pleasing landscape design, and turn your ideas into reality. Depending on your budget, we are also able to refer you to premium landscape architects to assist you in your design process and help with creating a true backyard oasis for your staycation.

If you’re wondering what are the landscaping stones that can endure salt stains, then this article is for you.

Salt can do a lot of harm to natural stones, just like it many other building materials. It can be disastrous to almost all kinds of building and landscape material, including stone, concrete, and metal. This is especially true if you have a saltwater pool.

Salt can cause damages like staining, delamination, and erosion, which will eventually lead to your stones breaking or cracking. Nevertheless, this should not discourage you from using the material. You just have to know which stones are naturally salt-resistant and how to protect your pool copings so you don’t face any of these problems.

Stones are not created equally, with some being more resistant to salt than others. Here at STONEarch, we determine this property by testing each of our products to ensure that they are suitable for the intended purpose and all our natural stone products have been time & weather-tested to ensure the stones are suitable for the Canadian climate. Our expertise is in sourcing natural stone for landscape use from over 10 countries, and our procurement team has been doing so for over 20 years, allowing them to have a lot of experience in assessing which natural stones will work best in North American climate.

What Are The Types Of Natural Stones That Can Withstand Salt Stains?

When choosing the right material for your landscape projects, you need to consider several factors, including durability and safety. STONEarch natural stones meet all these requirements. Our stone products are versatile, resistant to salt stains, long-lasting, tough, and cost-effective. Likewise, they are suitable for a wide range of applications and available in numerous stunning hues.

The four types of stones in our collection that can withstand salt are Sandstone, Limestone, Granite and Travertine.

Sandstone

Sandstone is a form of sedimentary rock. It usually develops under bodies of water and comprised of quartz or other sand minerals. This natural stone is not only beautiful in nature but also very sturdy, resilient to salt stains, and can withstand weathering. It is ideal to use in the surrounding areas of your pool and other outdoor spaces.

Granite

Granite is a compact and hard igneous rock. The natural stone is formed by quartz, mica, and feldspar. What makes this landscape material ideal for your projects is its salt-resistance, toughness, endurance, and handsome good looks. Using granite can provide your space with an elegant aesthetic.

Limestone

Limestone is a kind of sedimentary rock. It is typically formed in shallow, warm marine waters. Moreover, depending on the type of limestone, it may have fossil fragments, light veining, and an overall flat surface. The material is widely used in both exterior and interior applications because of its beauty, tolerance to salt, and strength.

Travertine

Travertine is another type of sedimentary rock. The porous natural stone is formed by calcium carbonate deposits. This stone can provide your property with a timeless appeal. Hence, it is often utilised in both exterior and interior construction. Moreover, its porous characteristic makes the surface of travertine non-slip, on top of being salt stain resistant.

Like with all natural stones, it’s always advisable to consider using a natural stone sealer for the lighter colours to ensure there is no staining that occurs and also using the right type of salt that is suitable for natural stone walkways and patios.

How To Remove Salt Stains From Natural Stones

Salt stains occur when moisture evaporates from stones. This will leave behind minerals and salts. Often, it’s a minor inconvenience that you can easily remedy without the need to replace your stones. When this happens, you need to have your stones regularly cleaned by a professional. Nonetheless, the moisture will evaporate and your problem with efflorescence will disappear.

Unfortunately, visible salt stains may also mean that there’s a bigger underlying problem underneath your natural stone. The problem is often moisture in its substrate. You can determine if this is the culprit by consulting with your contractor. Also, you can contact our team about any questions you have in mind about STONEarch natural stone products

Natural stone steps are perfect for your front or backyard. Natural stones are very versatile landscaping materials. They can provide your landscape with a luxurious and elegant ambience, a rustic and natural look, and anything in between. Also, steps made from natural stones can complement various garden styles.

One of the biggest concerns of most homeowners is the cost of adding natural stone steps on their landscape. However, it’s an investment that offers not only beauty but functionality and value as well. You can also incorporate it easily in your backyard, gardens, and yard entrance to give your property a natural look and vibe.

So whether you want to replace your old concrete steps with natural stones or want to add a dramatic highlight to your sloping backyard, consider installing natural stone steps.

There are different types of natural stone steps that you may like to consider, including stone copings which are rock-faced, bull-nosed or straight edge stone copings that can be used as steps, or solid blocks of stone as steps. Both are very popular options, however for budget conscious customers, they will often opt for stone copings as a cheaper alternative to stone steps.

You can then create a landing using natural stone pavers, and add copings as a surface treatment on top of the concrete to save some cost and reduce the heavy equipment required to install your natural stone entrance.

Why Should I Go For Natural Stone Steps Instead Of Other Materials?

Aside from beauty and functionality, natural stone steps provide the following benefits in comparison to concrete steps or other alternatives:

• Add value to your property. Your home will not only look appealing but using natural stones can also increase its overall value. That’s why it’s worth considering if ever you’ll put your property on the market.
  
• Low maintenance. Stone steps don’t require a lot of upkeep and care. You won’t have to worry about repairing cracks or growth of mildew and mold during rainy days. Basically, all you need is to sweep off debris like leaves on the steps or use a gentle water pressure to wash them off.
  
• Versatile. Natural stones come in a wide array of colours, textures, shapes, and sizes. So you’ll have plenty of options in terms of style and design. The sides of our steps have a nice rock-faced finish that is timeless and rustic. Other custom options also include flamed and sandblasted stone steps.
  
• Durable. Our stone steps are 6” or 7” thick blocks of stones, which means they are essentially bullet proof from breakage. They will be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. The stone steps you’ll install today can last you for many years to come. Further, due to their weight, it is unlikely they will shift around much which is a common problem with interlock steps that can often sink over time.

Although it can be costly to use natural stone for your hardscape feature, you can modify it to make it suitable for your budget. The price of these landscape stones vary widely, so you’re more likely to find something that can accommodate your needs and resources. And the best thing about it is that you don’t have to think about additional upgrades or maintenance costs for a long time.

What Types Of Natural Stones Are Ideal For Steps?

Natural granite, limestone, and sandstone are perfect for stone steps. They come in a variety of sizes and colours, so it will be easy for you to find the best finish and colour options that will work with the aesthetic of your home.

Sandstone and limestone are both the primary source materials for flagstone. Some feature either a rock or split face which gives it that natural and somewhat uneven appearance. There are also other options such as sawn-edge and sand-blasted natural stone steps. Whatever stone type you choose will all come down to your preference and the design aesthetic that you are trying to achieve.

Furthermore, stone steps come in a lot of size options. The standard height is 6” or 7” for natural stone steps, or you can opt for stone copings which are 2” in thickness. We can always customize different options for your specific project as well. You can create a lovely and impressive step with a large natural stone. Simply cut it to the proper dimensions suitable to the height or the riser or step and width of your stairs.

The Perfect Finish

If you’re aiming for formal landscaping steps, both of the sides should have retaining or cheek walls. Ensure that the materials you’ll use here match perfectly with the natural stones of your steps. Consider using natural stone pavers that match the overall step tread or you may opt for complementary colours that work with the existing facade.

Complement your stone steps nicely with everyday plants and informal rock arrangements. You may also want to consider putting some lighting on the risers for a more dramatic flair and better night-time visibility.

Final Words

Steps are not only necessary for most homes, but they’re also an excellent wSteps are not only necessary for most homes, but they’re also an excellent way to give your landscape some definition while making it interesting. Additionally, natural stone steps can give your property a style identity. They can also function as informal seating areas to connect different levels in your landscape design.