Stone is a tough, durable material that is frequently used for walls, patios, paths, steps and sometimes even mulch. Decorative landscaping stones are an inexpensive and easy way to add appeal and style to your landscape. Its available in a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes. A stone is available to fit almost any need, from a pool landscape to a rock garden. Knowing the differences and which are best suited for the job you need can save time, money and maximize the look of your landscape. There are three different main types of landscaping rocks: fieldstone, flagstone and crushed stone.
Fieldstone:
Fieldstone, by definition, is any locally found stone that is uncut and in its natural state. This form of stone if the most economically sensible, as it is usually found free or for a very small charge. This type of stone also has a more natural look, and is ideal in landscapes that have minimal man-made structures. It is often difficult to find fieldstone that matches a predetermined style or theme, however, as nature is the craftsman that forms those stones. A chosen fieldstone can be taken to a quarry, which offers stone-cutting and shaping services for a nominal fee, if the perfect stone is found.
Flagstone:
A flagstone can be any type of stone, as long as it is cut into a a relatively thin, flat slab. Some of the most commonly used types of flagstone include granite, limestone and sandstone. Slate can also be used as flagstone, and is available in numerous shades, including red, green, black and gray. Flagstone is often used as in foundations or to form stepping stones or pathways. These stones heat up fast, however, and should be kept in the shade to prevent burnt feet.
Flagstone is available cut in three different ways: square-edged, natural or geometric shapes. Natural flagstones have rough edges and are ideal for stepping stones surrounding by turf. Square-edged flagstones have been formed into perfect squares, and are more commonly used for construction. Geometric flagstones can be formed into diamonds, rectangles, circles or any other desired shape. They can be used for many different purposes, only limited by your imagination.
Crushed Stone:
Crushed stone, also referred to as gravel, are commonly used as a ground cover or inorganic mulch, usually around shrubs. Crushed stone has several advantages to organic mulch, as it doesn’t contain any weed seeds and cannot be washed or blown away by wind or water. This type of stone is also fire-resistant, and will help prevent your landscape from catching fire, which is a larger risk in the drier prairie states. They are also popular in a pool landscape, as the gravel will not rot or form mildew if constantly wet from the nearby water.
The different types of crushed stone available include crushed marble, pea stone and limestone chips. The differences between these types of stones are purely aesthetic, and the one that best matches your landscape should always be chosen.
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