Is Flat Stone Right for Your Next Landscaping Project

Flat stone can bring timeless beauty and long-lasting function to almost any outdoor space. Not all stones are equal, though. Understanding the different types of flat stone means you can make a more educated choice when selecting materials for your next project.

Benefits of Flat Rocks

Flat landscaping stones offer both practical and visual benefits for homeowners, such as:

• Natural beauty
• Excellent durability
• Slip-resistant textures
• Flexible design options
• Easy maintenance
• Easy integration with fire pits, retaining wall systems, and patios

Types of Flat Stones

Fieldstone

Fieldstone is a naturally occurring stone gathered from the ground or fields and shaped by nature over time.

Projects they're good for:

• Garden borders
• Retaining wall installations
• Stepping stones
• Accents

Architectural styles they complement:

• Farmhouse
• Rustic
• Cottage
• Craftsman
• Traditional homes

Bluestone

Bluestone is a dense natural stone known for its smooth, flat surface and blue-gray color tones.

Projects they're good for:

• Pool decks
• Walkways
• Outdoor dining areas

Architectural styles they complement:

• Colonial
• Contemporary
• Modern farmhouse
• Traditional
• Transitional homes

Sandstone

Sandstone is a sedimentary stone known for its earth-tone colors and textured finish.

Projects they're good for:

• Garden walkways
• Patios
• Accent walls
• Outdoor seating areas

Architectural styles they complement:

• Southwestern
• Mediterranean
• Ranch-style
• Rustic
• Traditional homes

Slate

Slate is a fine-grained natural stone known for its smooth texture and rich dark coloring.

Projects they're good for:

• Modern patios
• Walkways
• Outdoor kitchens
• Fire pits areas

Architectural styles they complement:

• Modern
• Contemporary
• Industrial
• Minimalist
• Transitional homes

Is Flat Stone the Right Choice for Your Landscaping Project?

Flat stone is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a balance between appearance and long-term value. However, flat landscaping rocks aren't always the right choice for every project.

Alternatives to Flat Stone

Cobblestone

Cobblestone is a rounded natural stone material commonly used for old-world-inspired hardscaping.

Projects they're good for:

• Driveways
• Walkways
• Garden edging

Architectural styles they complement:

• Colonial
• European-inspired
• Tudor
• Traditional
• Historic homes

Mulch

Mulch is an organic or synthetic ground covering used to protect soil and reduce weed growth.

Projects they're good for:

• Garden beds
• Tree rings
• Natural pathways

Architectural styles they complement:

• Cottage
• Farmhouse
• Rustic
• Traditional
• Woodland-style landscapes

Stone Veneers

Stone veneers are lightweight decorative stone products designed to mimic full natural stone.

Projects they're good for:

• Outdoor fireplaces
• Accent walls
• Decorative columns

Architectural styles they complement:

• Contemporary
• Craftsman
• Rustic
• Traditional
• Modern farmhouse

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are manufactured paving stones available in many shapes, colors, and textures.

Projects they're good for:

• Patios
• Walkways
• Outdoor seating areas

Architectural styles they complement:

• Contemporary
• Traditional
• Transitional
• Modern
• Ranch-style homes

Poured Concrete

Poured concrete is a continuous hardscape surface formed by mixing and setting concrete onsite.

Projects they're good for:

• Patios
• Sidewalks
• Outdoor entertaining areas

Architectural styles they complement:

• Modern
• Minimalist
• Industrial
• Contemporary
• Mid-century modern homes