Stone can bring added value to your home. Whether it is time to sell or a personal luxury you want to add, stone is an upgrade that enhances the visual appeal while reducing the maintenance. But what is the best stone for your home?

4 Things to Look for when Choosing a Stone

Look for quality.

You want the best for what is available in your budget. The material will last a lifetime, so it’s worth the investment. Granite is the most luxurious and the most expensive. And it only takes a small amount of stone to signal quality and longevity. A custom limestone surround on a fireplace can speak volumes with the right quality.

Know about maintenance.

With proper maintenance, stone surfaces will last for generations. Stones in general are low maintenance but there are differences in the amount of maintenance with each type. Quartzite is hard to scratch and even harder to stain whereas the softer and more absorbent Limestone is more prone to scratches and stains. And most stones like Limestone need to be treated with a sealing agent periodically to protect its surfaces.

Choose patterns and colors that blend in with your home’s style.

First, think about the shape you want. Then consider your color and size. When decorating, adding in lighter colors can help brighten and open your space. Darker colors can make your space look smaller and more intimate. As for the size of the stone, smaller stones and pebble textures look better when you are working in a small area. You have more flexibility with using larger or a variety of stones in a larger area. Consistency in color should also be noted. For example, Fieldstone Center has a large variety of flagstone. Slate is an option with lovely jewel tones while sandstone might not be as wild but the tones are consistent.

Consider the function.

While your main consideration might be how it looks, you want to choose a stone that fits your purpose. Heavy, slippery, absorbency – these are some characteristics to evaluate when considering a stone. For example, when adding stone for a decorative wall, thin stone veneer is a popular choice because it is lighter and easier to apply. As for flooring, flagstone works well with radiant heat, but if it is a high traffic area in your home you may want a slate flagstone that better resists staining compared to a sandstone flagstone. In addition, Quartzite is very hard but will be too slippery in areas such as a bathroom.

With so many types of stone to choose from, you have options. Fieldstone Center can help direct you to the best stone for your home project. For assistance, contact us at (770) 385-7708.

The post How to Choose the Best Stone for Your Home appeared first on Fieldstone Center.

3 Different Stones for Patio Projects

Flagstone

A favorite choice for homeowners, flagstone is noted for its loose grains and rough texture and admired for its color variations and limitless pattern options. It looks good on both small and large surfaces. Select uniform shapes to create a pattern or irregular cuts for a more random appearance. Color options include red, pink, orange, brown, blue, green, gold and gray. It’s easy to use because of its flat cut surface and ideal for high traffic areas because of its non-slip surface. Since water permeates through it instead of running off, it is a good choice near pools and water features.

Granite

Known for its versatility, granite cobblestones add an authentic charm to patios. Granite is nonporous so it resists staining. It requires very little maintenance. Because of its hardness, you can’t beat its durability in landscape design. The downside is it can be quite pricey so it is often more practical for smaller patios or combined with other surface materials. Mix and match black and grey colors and lay the cobblestones in a pattern to create a stunning patio design. Or add a cobblestone walkway with a patio seating area that is surrounded by gravel and plants for a natural look.

Gravel

An easy choice for the do-it-yourselfer, small aggregates such as pea gravel can help transform your patio area to one reminiscent of a cottage garden or courtyard. While aggregates are easy to put down and inexpensive, more maintenance is required over time compared to most stone. This is especially true in high traffic areas where gravel can get dislodged to create a messy look. It is great for drainage but can be difficult to walk on; therefore, consider adding in some stepping stones.

Mixing Materials for Your Patio

Consider the different affects large flagstone will have on a space compared to smaller granite cobblestones or gravel. Mixing and matching two or more types of stone together can increase your possibilities. For example, use flagstone for larger areas of a patio that lead up to a more intimate area set in a pattern of cobblestones for a dramatic effect. Or add aggregates or cobblestones around the edge of a flagstone pool area for variance. Aggregates or groundcover plants can also be used to fill in spaces between flagstone or cobblestones for a relaxing lounge area.

Whether you are designing an intimate gathering place or an expansive area with a pool, choose the best quality natural stone for long-lasting beauty. Fieldstone Center has a wide selection of natural stone for your patio project. Contact us at 770.385.7708 to arrange to see our selection or for more information.

The post Adding Beauty to Your Patio with Stone appeared first on Fieldstone Center.