Adding an outdoor walkway to your home? Want to build a patio for your backyard? With the right material and a solid installation team, your garden will serve you for decades to come. There are many options stone or rock work in areas with extreme weather like Minnesota. No matter the feature you want to add, these are the best options for your outdoor space.
Materials for Stone or Rock Work
The right point of interest in your outdoor space makes all of the difference in how much you love your home. Whether you are adding steps, a walkway, or even a design feature, stone or rocks add texture to your landscape, draws people to your garden, adds color to your view, and directs foot traffic to a set location.
Whether you love concrete or slate, there are lasting materials on the market that you’ll love in your backyard. The best options for stone or rock work include:
- Concrete Pavers: Available in a complete range of shapes and sizes, concrete pavers typically make use of an interlocking pattern. No grout is needed because they fit together like a puzzle. These are slip-resistant and can withstand freezing temperatures.
- Poured Concrete: If you prefer the elegant look of a smooth, even surface, try poured concrete. This affordable solution doesn’t have seams but can be shaped how you wish during installation.
- Brick: Create a classic and timeless look with brick. It is a colorful, durable material that is relatively easy to maintain. It does get mold and mildew, so you need to clean it seasonally. Whether you want green, brown, tan, or even beige, brick is the right solution.
- Granite: The hardest and least porous of the natural stones listed, it holds up well in cold weather conditions. This beautiful option is typically square or rectangular. Granite costs more than other materials but has extreme longevity for cold winters and hot summers.
- Marble: You’ll love the appearance of this rock in your elegant outdoor space. For outdoor either finished or rough. It requires a set level of maintenance which relies on sealing depending on the marble you choose.
- Slate: Looking for a stone that does well outdoors? Slate is strong, durable, and able to withstand severe weather shifts. Slate comes in strong color variations from grey/black all the way to reds.
Tips for Choosing the Right Stone
With all of these options, how do you know the right stone or rock type to choose? Here are some tips for the selection of materials in your yard.
- Stick to your budget. Don’t let a company press you beyond your budget!
- What is your preferred look or color-scheme? Since many of these natural materials come with a range of color options, it is up to you to determine the color you prefer.
- Determine if the walkway will have high levels of foot traffic. For the main path to the front door, you need a more durable material than on a lightly used pathway.
- Pay attention to maintenance issues commonly associated with the material you want to choose. If you don’t have time to deal with maintenance issues, don’t buy a soft rock.
- Consider the texture you want. Rock and stone have the potential to be smooth and flat or come with rough edges and surface. You’ll be using your backyard for years to come, so why not enjoy it?
Outdoor Stone Work from Professionals
With the right walkways and a defined outdoor space, your yard gets more functional and beautiful. If you are committed to stone or rock work, why not hire a professional for the job? An expert considers factors like grading, artistry, and may even offer a warranty with services. Improve your backyard with stone or rock work.