Outdoor spaces can be elevated for a number of reasons. For some, it may be to add a sense of peace and calm to the space, but for others, it may be to help them get in better touch with nature. Regardless of the reason, when it comes to outdoor landscaping, this step can (and should) be taken with the environment in mind. 

That being said, natural stone pavers are prime materials that can boost an outdoor space’s aesthetic appeal while doing good for the environment. Because of their natural source, these stones are among the most sustainable, if not the most sustainable, building materials that can be used for outdoor landscaping. 

But what exactly makes natural stone pavers environmentally friendly? Let’s find out. 

Why Using Natural Stone Pavers in Your Outdoor Spaces is Good For the Environment 

Aside from being extremely durable and aesthetic outdoor flooring pieces, natural stone pavers are good for the environment as well. Here are some reasons and ways that these pavers can benefit the environment. 

• Natural stone pavers are truly natural.
• Natural stone pavers are fully recyclable. 
• Natural stone pavers last longer compared to other outdoor flooring materials. 
• Natural stone pavers can help combat carbon footprint.
• Natural stone pavers are sustainably sourced and manufactured. 

Natural Stone Pavers Are Truly Natural 

Being a natural resource of the earth, stone was among the first building materials ever used. It is naturally present; it does not require the mixing of other resources for its creation. These natural stones themselves, such as sandstone and limestone, do not carry any toxins, chemicals, or poisons. 

But how about their processing? Well, when it comes to their production, stones are first extracted from quarries and then brought to factories for processing. The huge block is then chunked into many small blocks in a process called slabbing. 

They are further split and processed using a cutting machine. This is done to ensure that the paver’s edges are even. The machine then gives the natural stone pavers the desired sleek finish. 

Considering the size and thickness variations of these pavers, calibration is also performed. This is done so that the granite, basalt, or other type of natural stone paver has the desired thickness and size. Afterward, these pavers are good to go. 

This just goes to show that these pavers are truly natural pieces that were sourced out of the earth itself. They are not man-made materials. Because of this, they ensure that their surrounding environment is not compromised. 

Natural Stone Pavers Are Fully Recyclable

On top of being naturally sourced, these pavers are fully recyclable as well. Recycling and salvaging these pieces can be done to make sure that the natural stone is maximized throughout its entire lifespan. 

When recycled, the stone can be applied in various ways. For example, stone pieces from an old building made of limestone could be repurposed into retaining walls or outdoor design facades. 

Recycling natural stone helps reduce the amount of water, energy, and other resources that would have been otherwise necessary to make new building materials. The stone’s ability to be recycled effectively reduces detrimental impacts on the supply of resources and on the ecosystem as a whole. 

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Natural Stone Pavers Last Longer Compared to Other Outdoor Flooring Materials

Travertine, granite, and limestone are all natural stones that can last for years and years of use. Their remarkable capacity to stand the test of time is one of the reasons why using the material is a truly sustainable and environmentally friendly option. 

These natural stones have the capacity to endure the difficulties that come with high traffic. Whether they are applied to outdoor kitchens or living spaces, these paver stones can last up to 50 years or even a full century. 

Compared to other materials, natural stone pavers last much longer. When it comes to sustainable design, it is important to consider durability so that resources do not need to be frequently used to create new materials. Hence, the longer the materials last, the better it is for the environment. 

Natural Stone Pavers Can Help Combat Carbon Footprint 

In comparison to other building materials, natural stone pavers are known to have the lowest carbon footprint. This is because these materials are from the earth itself. Unlike other materials that are man-made, natural stones are sourced from the planet. Because they do not require the same processing as other pieces, natural stone pavers have a lower carbon footprint. 

Moreover, natural stones are also the best when it comes to insulation. Due to their intrinsic capacity to insulate, they offer greatly advantageous thermal mass. This means that stones like slate take in heat during the day and then expel it at night. This regulative capacity of natural stone helps minimize the need to use air conditioners during summer and heaters over winter. 

Aside from working on indoor spaces, these insulative properties could work especially well for covered and partially enclosed outdoor spaces. 

Hence, using natural stones may potentially help cut electricity bills. This, in turn, helps combat the carbon footprint. 

Natural Stone Pavers Are Sustainably Sourced and Manufactured 

Technology advancements have enabled more options and cost reductions for products made of stone. This, in turn, makes natural stone easier to apply and even more desirable than it ever was. 

The stone industry itself is working towards combating pollution, reducing waste, conserving resources, and other eco-friendly practices that benefit the environment. Hence, by choosing natural stone, you are also choosing a building material that has been sustainably handled, from its quarrying all the way to its application. 

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Use STONEarch Natural Stone Pavers For Sustainable Design

Rather than using other types of flooring materials, you can opt to use natural stone pavers instead. As explained earlier, these materials do not just help boost a property’s value and add aesthetics to the place; they are also significantly beneficial for the environment. 

If you are looking to elevate your outdoor space in a sustainable way, opt for STONEarch natural stone pavers. We have an extensive list of natural stone pavers that you can choose from. 

Contact us for your outdoor paving needs. We’d love to help you achieve sustainability in your outdoor space. 

Driveways are, undeniably, essential parts of the home. As they are located at the property’s very front, it is no wonder that homeowners want to make sure that this space is not just functional but also visually appealing.

When it comes to driveway developments for your home, there are several flooring materials to choose from. However, among the wide variety of building materials, natural stone pavers are the ones that you should consider using for your stunning and ideal driveway.

Natural Stone Pavers For the Driveway: Are They Worth It?

Using natural stone pavers for the driveway adds an elegant and refined touch to the home. It does not just boost the property’s curb appeal and value but also exudes class and sophistication. Hence, it is no wonder that these pavers are classic options when it comes to visually appealing landscape projects.

What makes things even better is that natural stone pavers are remarkably durable and are known to last a long time. In fact, they may even last for an entire lifetime. STONEarch offers a variety of natural stone pavers, from granite to limestone, that could suit any outdoor space, including your driveway, without compromising quality in any way.

However, considering the availability of other outdoor flooring materials, you may still be wondering if natural stone pavers are the best material to use for your driveway. To give you a better and more comprehensive idea, here are some reasons why these pavers are worth using for your driveway.

• They are easy to maintain.
• They are long-lasting.
• They boost a property’s value.
• They are eco-friendly materials.

Natural Stone Pavers Are Easy to Maintain

Natural stone pavers are notably easy to maintain. To clean these flooring materials, all you need to do is use a simple solution to remove the stains and dirt. Moreover, with a paver sealer, stains from the natural stone driveway can be removed with water alone. Typically for a driveway application, we recommend sealing the STONEarch natural stone to maintain the true colour of the stone and protect against oil spills or tire marks.

Natural Stone Pavers Are Long-Lasting

These pavers have the capacity to last for a couple of years or perhaps even an entire lifetime. This is because these materials are made with minerals that underwent pressure for millions of years. Hence, they tend to be less dense, less fragile, and more tough compared to other man-made materials.

On top of this, these natural stone pavers are also resistant to water, can withstand the test of time, and do not decay. Throughout their lifetime, their composition stays the same. They also maintain their functionality and overall appearance. This makes natural stone pavers, in particular granite, extremely sturdy for outdoor spaces, including the driveway.

Natural Stone Pavers Boost a Property’s Value

These natural stones do not just offer great aesthetics and functionality; they also boost the curb appeal and value of the home.

Hence, especially for homeowners who are planning to sell or rent out their property in the future, adding natural stone pavers to the driveway immediately helps with market segmentation and enables you to price your property higher. A natural stone driveway could be a strong selling point.

Natural Stone Pavers Are Eco-Friendly Materials

Among the many flooring materials available for driveway development, natural stone pavers may be the most eco-friendly. The earth has vast stone resources. Though the regeneration of these resources may not be as blatant compared to plants, this process is actually endless.

Moreover, due to being naturally sourced, these materials can be fully recycled and repurposed. Natural stone pavers can be used for reclaimed paving or aggregates.

How to Create a Stunning and Quality Driveway With Natural Stone Pavers

That being said, it is no wonder that natural stone pavers are ideal materials to use for your driveway. How, then, can these materials be used to elevate and create a stunning driveway? If this is something that you are thinking about, here are some tips that you can follow.

• Have a flooring theme for your driveway pavers.
• Use natural stone pavers to decorate the driveway’s borders.
• Include patterns.

Have a Flooring Theme For Your Driveway Pavers

The driveway does not have to appear monotonous. With natural stone pavers, you can incorporate a floor theme to your driveway.

This is also where the specific aesthetic features come in. To help you get a better idea of what you want, here are some questions that you can answer.

• Is there a specific hue that you prefer?
• Would you rather go with light or dark colors?
• Do you want pavers that have specific patterns or textures?
• Is there a certain effect (i.e., warm, rustic, modern) that you want your driveway to exude?

These are all questions worth pondering. They can help you narrow down your driveway design options.

For reference, cobblestones are exceptional building materials that work especially well for driveways and walkways. They also exude elegance and simplicity with their tones.

Use Natural Stone Pavers to Decorate the Driveway’s Borders

Natural stone pavers need not be limited to the actual driveway path. They can also be added to the borders to accentuate and elevate the outdoor space. When planning the borders and actual path, homeowners have the flexibility to mix and match different natural stone pavers of varying sizes, textures, and colors.

STONEarch New Ebony Granite and Moderno Beige are two natural stone pavers that may blend well together.

Include Patterns

Rather than opting for a straight look on the driveway, one can make the space fun and unique by adding twists to the driveway’s overall pattern. This could be a circle, a curve, some alternating paver pieces, or other irregular or symmetric patterns. Incorporating such patterns can add flexibility and life to the driveway space.

STONEarch is Here to Help You

With natural stone pavers, all of these aesthetic and functional tips for the driveway can be pulled off. Thus, whether you are planning to revamp your current driveway or transform your raw outdoor space into a driveway, STONEarch is here to help you. Our different natural stone pavers are available to help you pull off a stunning and functional driveway.

If you need any help with your natural stone driveway, contact us. We are here to help you achieve your dream outdoor space.

The preference for cooking outdoors has been steadily increasing in Canada and throughout North America. More and more households are starting to take their home entertainment and cooking experiences to the next level by having an outdoor kitchen right on their property. Others, on the other hand, are planning and preparing to have their own dream outdoor kitchen developed or renovated. 

When planning for the development of an outdoor kitchen, homeowners should think about functionality without compromising the overall aesthetic appeal. That being said, if you are sourcing out outdoor kitchen ideas and thinking about the best materials to use, you should consider natural stone pavers. With these pavers installed in your big or small outdoor kitchen, you can rest assured that your outdoor space will last while remaining visually pleasing. 

Six Advantages of Using Natural Stone Pavers For Your Outdoor Kitchen 

Though aesthetics, functionality, and durability generally encapsulate the essence of why natural stone pavers are ideal for your outdoor kitchen design, there are other specific advantages that come with using these materials. Let’s take a look at some of them. 

1. Variety and versatility
2. Low-maintenance
3. Adaptability to seasonal changes
4. Good investment
5. Long-lasting aesthetics
6. Sustainability

Variety and Versatility 

There is a vast variety of natural stone pavers that homeowners can choose from. These pavers could be made of granite, travertine, limestone, and sandstone, among others. They also come in various patterns, textures, shapes, textures, colors, and sizes. Given the wide range of options available, you can take your time to choose which type of natural stone paver you would like to incorporate into your outdoor kitchen. 

This great variety of options also means that natural stone pavers are versatile. If you would like to pull off a specific theme, feel, or design for your outdoor kitchen, there are various pavers that you can choose from.

Low-Maintenance 

Natural stone pavers also require less maintenance compared to other types. All that you have to do is sweep down the dust and dirt. Hence, homeowners need not constantly think about caring for these outdoor kitchen surfaces or maintaining their appearance. 

To add, because of their greater durability, natural stone pavers do not usually get cracks. However, if they do, replacing and repairing them is easier. The specific paver with cracks in the outdoor kitchen can easily be removed and replaced. It’s as simple as that. 

Adaptability to Seasonal Changes

Another great benefit of using natural stone pavers for the outdoor kitchen is that they adapt to seasonal changes. These pavers remain warm over the winter and cool over the summer. This is because the natural stone material has a remarkable capacity for heat conduction. 

Good Investment

While adding an outdoor kitchen in itself could already upscale the property’s value, using natural stones increases the value even more. Natural stones are generally regarded as high-quality and high-value materials. They exude traits such as class, sophistication, prominence, and elegance. 

Projects that include natural stones are also considered unique, well-built, and genuine. This, in turn, boosts the property’s overall value, which could be extremely helpful if homeowners plan to sell the property in the future. 

Long-Lasting Aesthetics 

Unlike concrete, natural stone colors do not get pigmented. This, in turn, adds to their intrinsic beauty. Moreover, because these pavers do not consist of composite aggregate mixtures, their beauty stays the same even as they age. 

In fact, some stones become even more beautiful, elegant, and visually appealing over time. They will still remain visually pleasing even after several years pass. Hence, when used for the outdoor kitchen, you can rest assured that the kitchen countertops, floor, and the overall space will remain beautiful even after long periods. 

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Sustainability 

Because of their natural composition and source, these pavers are environmentally friendly. Natural stones, such as sandstone, are fully recyclable and may be used in different ways and applications throughout their lifetime. Recycling and salvaging stone is a very feasible choice and a sustainable way to make sure that the material is utilized to its maximum potential. 

Old natural stone pavers in the outdoor kitchen can be recycled and turned into reclaimed stone pavers. They can also be crushed and used for different applications. 

But What About Concrete Pavers? 

While using natural stone pavers indeed come with strong advantages, you might still be wondering what makes natural stone pavers any different from the common concrete ones for your outdoor kitchen. Though the latter may seem like the more inexpensive choice, they are actually just replicas of natural stone and brick ones. 

Concrete pavers tend to become slippery when they get wet. Thus, if they are used in areas like an outdoor kitchen, this could be dangerous and inconvenient. 

These types of pavers are also prone to cracking, even though preventive efforts are exerted. While there are various reasons and factors that may lead to this, cracks are common and expected among concrete pavers. Repairing these pavers may also require a heftier budget. 

Natural stone pavers, on the other hand, are more durable. Because of how they result from great pressure and heat, these pavers are capable of withstanding extreme weather and other conditions. They can also stand the test of time, as evidenced by many ancient structures made of natural stone that are still standing up to this point of time.

Even with great exposure to extreme weather, foot traffic, and other factors, natural stone pavers exhibit remarkable durability compared to concrete ones. Given this, it is no wonder that natural stone pavers are ideal for the outdoor kitchen. 

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Always Available

If you are looking to develop or renovate your outdoor kitchen using prime and premium natural stone pavers, STONEarch is here to help you. From granite to sandstone, we have a wide variety of natural stone pavers for you to choose from. 

Contact us to let us know how we can help you achieve your dream outdoor kitchen. 

Are you looking for an affordable and beautiful way to upgrade your home with elegance and character? When it comes to dramatically transforming the look of a driveway or patio, nothing compares to the timeless sophistication offered by granite cobblestones. These unique stones help create a dream way that’s sure to delight both guests and passersby. From classic gray to pink banded – there’s no shortage in options when it comes to selecting the perfect stone for your individual style and needs. Let us show you how easy it can be to bring a touch of class to your driveway and make it a source of pride for you!

The Different Types of Granite Cobblestones

If you are considering granite cobblestones for your driveway or patio, you may want to know the types of stone that are available. 

There are a variety of granite cobbles to choose from, such as 

• Polished Ivory Granite
• Carbon Black Granite
• Canyon Rose Granite
• Bahama Blue Granite
• Many more

Each type boasts unique features, so it pays to do some research before making a final decision. Polished Ivory Granite, for instance, is a timeless choice with light cream shades in a natural finish; Carbon Black Granite has striking hues of deep charcoal; and Canyon Rose Granite features vibrant rose tones in an antiqued texture. 

If you’re looking for something with a subtle hint of color, Bahama Blue Granite with its delicate blue undertones may be just what you need. When searching for the perfect granite cobblestone, there’s no shortage of options.

STONEArch has the following types of cobblestones: 

• Silver Antique Black Cobbles
• Sunset Cobbles
• Gray Granite Cobbles

STONEarch cobbles are available in slate, travertine, basalt, sandstone, limestone, and granite. 

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Benefits of Granite Cobblestones

Durability and strength 

Granite cobblestones are the pinnacle of durability and strength for homeowners looking for paving materials that last a lifetime. Composed of quartz and silica, materials renowned for their hardness, granite cobblestones resist wear and require minimal maintenance. 

Their resilience is further bolstered by their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions - such as temperature fluctuations, rain, snow, salt brine, and UVA radiation - making them ideal for homes in cold climates. Granite cobblestones do not require frequent sealants due to their water-repellent nature, while their non-slip texture adds an extra layer of safety, especially on driveways and walkways.

Beauty and elegance 

Homeowners seeking to add a timeless beauty and elegance to their outdoor space will find granite cobblestones an ideal solution. Not only are they slip-resistant and incredibly durable, but they also come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing you to create a custom look. With proper maintenance, these stones will maintain their beauty long-term making them a great option for any area with regular foot traffic. Granite cobblestones provide an enduring charm that will stand the test of time.

Low maintenance 

Granite cobblestones are ideal for homeowners seeking a low maintenance, durable paving material. The natural strength, hardness and sturdiness of granite make it the perfect choice for driveways, walkways and patios. The dry surface of these cobblestones resists water, making them an excellent option in humid or rainy climates. 

Furthermore, their dense composition means little to no settling, so there is minimal upkeep required after installation. They are also non-porous, meaning they don’t absorb liquids or spills, allowing for easy cleaning and eliminating the risk of bacteria growth or staining. No weeds will grow between stones due to the tight joints, which eliminates the hassle of having to remove them from your lawn or driveway like with asphalt or concrete. 

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Steps in Installing Granite Cobblestones

1. Gather your materials: 

You’ll need to have a full set of supplies and tools to get started, including granite cobblestones, sand, gravel, mortar, a leveler, trowels, a rubber mallet and gloves. 

2. Prepare the ground: 

Clear the area for installation and dig down about 3-4 inches deep to allow for the base layer of sand and gravel. Pack it down firmly using a tampering or compacting machine. 

3. Mix the mortar: 

Follow directions on package mixing two parts cement with one part sand in a bucket or wheelbarrow as per manufacturer's instructions. Set aside once mixed thoroughly. 

4. Add base layer: 

Spread an even layer of playground sand or cushioning material over the prepped ground and use a leveler to make sure it is flat and even across the entire surface area that you plan on laying cobblestones on top of. 

5. Lay cobblestone pattern: 

Begin by laying out a row of stones along one edge of your desired layout pattern and then fill in gaps between.

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From the driveway to a dreamway with granite cobblestones

For homeowners looking to add elegance to their home, granite cobblestones are the perfect solution. With their unmatched durability and strength, granite cobblestones offer unbeatable long-term reliability and are resistant to warping and cracking even in extreme weather conditions. Plus, they give your driveway a unique, rustic look that is sure to turn heads. So, don’t wait any longer - install granite cobblestones on your driveway today and start enjoying the benefits!

Contact STONEArch for details on the best granite cobblestones for your driveway. Let’s make it happen. 

Reasons Why You Should Use Natural Stones For Commercial Projects

One of the main goals of commercial architects is to build a beautiful structure that can stand the test of time. However, some physical properties of materials are compromised to give way to aesthetics and design. Because of this, you may find that within five years or so, the building may not look as impressive as it does upon completion.

But that is not the case with natural stones. Architects have been taking advantage of the numerous properties of the building material for centuries. Different varieties of natural stones, such as granite and limestone, have been used to decorate building exteriors and interiors.

Natural stones have distinctive variations and can provide your commercial projects with high design value. That’s why many people embrace the use of natural stone, as it brings functionality and aesthetics to commercial properties. The important thing to keep in kind is which natural stone is suitable for a specific type of application and ensuring the technical properties will match the project requirements. And, this is where our team of experts can guide you.

With that in mind, here are the top reasons why commercial architects use STONEarch natural stones for their projects.

ASTM International Standards

Nowadays, the building industry emphasizes products that are permanent, safe, and low maintenance. Natural stones offer these characteristics. But the industry will be in total disarray if there are no sensible and consistent testing methods and standards for stone products. Fortunately, there’s a set of standards designed for landscaping stones. These are invaluable as they protect the industry, companies, and consumers against unfavorable outcomes due to product failures.

Several international agencies define and release testing guidelines for natural stone quality. One of the most popular is ASTM International due to the organization’s comprehensive testing standards for various natural stones, especially granite.

The American Society for Testing and Materials equips architects, consumers, and contractors with accurate and evidence-based data. This allows them to ensure they make the best possible decision when purchasing a material. ASTM committees are composed of influential industry experts. They gather and consult each other regarding practices, qualifications, testing procedures, guides, and quality standards openly and with transparency.

Most specifications of commercial projects require stones to satisfy specific ASTM standards before you can use them. STONEarch products, such as our Gray Granite, meet ASTM quality standards. This ensures you have a better understanding of a particular stone and will be able to choose the right one for your project. Testing includes various factors including flexural strenght of the stone, water absorption, and the resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.

Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of Natural Stones

Solar reflectance or reflectivity is the capacity of a material, such as natural stone, to reflect solar energy from its surface back into the environment. So when the sun sets, the stone gives off the energy it absorbed earlier. As a rule of thumb, the higher SRI the material possesses, the better it is at reflecting solar heat. If it is lower, it’s more likely to get hotter in direct sunlight. This becomes a critical factor in downtown core of metropolitan cities, including Toronto for example, as a low SRI applied across hundred of buildings will result in a very hot city during the summer time. At the time of writing this article, the requirement for SRI in Toronto is 29 and we have a number of natural stones that meet or exceed this minimum requirement.

When choosing a building material, you should consider how hot its surface will get under direct sunlight. Vertical exteriors are also prone to the energy of the sun. The building material you will use in the facade of a structure will influence its comfort. Likewise, it will affect the cooling and heating energy utilized.

Natural Stone like STONEarch White Star granite are a great option for building envelope or facades. This natural stone surface has sufficient SRI for both facade and landscape applications for a commercial project.

Different Uses of Natural Stone in Commercial Projects

Our collection of natural stones is versatile. Moreover, they are available in different colors, textures, finishes, designs, and sizes. That means our products are suitable for various applications. These include hotels, rooftop amenities, and office buildings, to name a few. We can even customize the stone of your choice to make it perfect for your project.

The popular stones among commercial architects are limestone, basalt, and granite. These stones are excellent options as accent materials. For instance, if you want a level of elegance and modernity for your building project, consider using our STONEarch Onyx Black granite for the darkest black granite option in the market. Beyond just colours, we can also customize our products in many different finishes that can have a significant impact on the final colour and result of the product. For example, a honed finish is more slippery but achieves a richer and deeper black, making it suitable for vertical surface of a bench. In contrast, a flamed and waterjet finish can make the stone dark yet maintain an anti-slip surface making it the best choice for a courtyard or commercial plaza.

So if you want to add beauty to your commercial projects and further enhance their value, STONEarch natural stone is the obvious choice.

Always Available

We are one of the largest suppliers and wholesalers of natural stone products in North America. You can find our quarries across the globe equipped with the latest equipment. Furthermore, our North American headquarters houses more than 1 million square feet of natural stones ready to ship at any time. We deliver natural stone products in bulk across the region promptly. Hence, you can have peace of mind knowing that your project will have continuous supply of material.

Natural stone is not only beautiful, but a diverse, unparalleled, and long-lasting material. Its application is limitless, and you’ll always find the perfect stone for every commercial project in mind. Contact our team to find out which one is right for you.

One of the most vital parts of your swimming pool is the area around surrounding it. A pool deck is where your family and friends can gather. Moreover, it defines the style and personality of your backyard pool. Also, a deck that surrounds a pool adds value to it. There are plenty of materials for creating a lavish pool deck. And on top of that list are STONEarch premium natural stones for pool decks.

Natural stone pavers are one of the best floor surfaces you can use around your pool. It can provide your pool setting with unmatched sophistication. Likewise, these landscaping materials are hard-wearing, durable, and extremely dense. Hence, they are ideal for areas exposed to sun and water, such as swimming pools.

If you’re thinking of using natural stones for your pool area, here are our top 3 premium natural stones for pool decks worth considering:

1. Indus Gray Limestone
2. ‘Onyx Black Granite
3. Gray Mix Travertine

Indus Gray Limestone

Limestone is one of the top go-to landscaping materials today. This paver will retain its good looks and form no matter what condition you throw at it. In fact, the stone can withstand the weather of North America and foot traffic. Hence, it is suitable for pool decks and other outdoor areas.

Although it is typically known for its earthy hues, you can also find limestones in various colours, such as STONEarch Indus Gray.

STONEarch Indus Gray is known as the most modern landscape stone around. Its combination of modern neutral tones of gray and white delivers a very clean and contemporary look. Another great feature of this premium limestone is its non-slip surface, thanks to the sandblasted texture of the stone. Also, the stone possesses an elegance that comes from some of the naturally occurring bright white and darker coloured veins and striations on its surface.

Onyx Black Granite

Granite is a popular choice among pool designers looking for a durable and tough material that can provide a consistent look. This natural stone is the hardest, has high water resistance, and can stand the test of time with flying colours. This is also what makes it an excellent choice for a commercial pool deck such as a condominium rooftop or amenity area.

A pool deck made with granite is ideal if your pool setting has a natural motif. Nevertheless, it also works well for lavish pool designs. In terms of deep rich black granite decking option, STONEarch Onyx Black granite is a top choice among landscape architects in North America. We launched this black granite in 2021, and it instantly became a sough-after stone for ultra-modern projects.

What’s so special about the building material is its finish that sparkles when the sunlight hits the fine crystals of the stone. Furthermore, the rich dark black colour of Onyx Black is the result of combining various finishes. These include flamed, brushed, and waterjet. Our attention to care when it comes to finishes is unparalleled to the industry, with many other competitors offering such a flamed finish on their stone.

The combination of finishes and carefully sourced raw materials, allows STONEarch to offer the darkest black granite for landscape use in the industry. STONEarch Onyx Black frequently competes (and wins due to its richness) against Jet Black, Cambrian Black, Absolute Black, Black Galaxy, Midnight Black and other black granites sourced globally.

Gray Mix Travertine

Travertine is an excellent option for building a luxurious pool deck. It is known for being a beautiful yet hard-wearing material. What’s more, the stone has small tiny holes that allow for the paving to breathe which means on a very hot summer day, a travertine stone will not absorb as much heat and will be more gentle on bare feet. No wonder it is very in demand these days with contractors and pool builders.

When it comes to travertine premium natural stones for pool decks, STONEarch Gray Mix is the right choice. Its warm and neutral tones of beige, gray, cream, and blue makes it perfect for your high-end landscape project. It has tiny holes, giving the material an antique character, as well as an anti-slip surface. Keep in mind that not all travertines are the same.

Many of them are not suitable for the Canadian climate and have failed when it comes to frequent exposure to freeze thaw cycles. STONEarch Gray Mix and STONEarch Ivory Mix have been time and weather-tested to withstand the harsh winters that we see here in Canada.

The stone is available in honed and tumbled finishes. Architects in Ontario and Quebec favor the classic tumbled cobbles for building pool decks.