You may not spare many (or any) thoughts for rocks, but when it comes to landscaping, you’d be surprised at how much of a difference decorative stone can make. Natural stone is one of the most versatile elements available for a landscape makeover. Stone adds texture and contrast, serves as a durable ground cover or even as mulch, and requires little to no maintenance. Just any old rock won’t do, though! Have a look at the most common types of decorative stone and the best way to use them.
Flagstone
Perhaps better known as “stepping stones”, flagstone are flat pieces of stone that are most often used to construct patios or walkways. Flagstone are usually laid over a foundation of sand to provide a stable surface to prevent shifting and sliding, and surrounded with pea gravel to fill in the gaps.
Pea Gravel
The smallest decorative rocks, called pea gravel, are perfect for paths and walkways. Because of their size and shape, these rocks tend to easily move which may not be the best choice for supporting garden furniture. Thus, they are best suited for patio areas, pathways and filling in between flat rock, like flagstones.
River Rock
As the name suggests, river rocks come from rivers, which gives them a smooth, polished finish. River rock is a bit bigger than pea gravel, and provides a rustic, natural feel to your landscaping design. These stones are most often used to edge flower beds or create drainage and erosion control areas within beds. River rocks require a compacted base to prevent them from sinking, and edging to keep them contained.
Boulders
The largest of the decorative stone family, boulders are pieces of rock which have broken off land formations as the natural consequence of long-term water exposure. You can purchase them angular or rounded, and use them to create visual “focal points” in your overall landscape design.
No matter the type of decorative stone you need for your landscaping project, contact Lafarge Fox River Decorative Stone! We have over 25 stone products to choose from, including subtle tan colors, bright pink and blue mixes, rainbow, gray, and black. We carry large boulders, fine gravel, and much more.. Stop by our showroom at 1300 S. Route Business 31 in South Elgin, IL., or give us a call at 847-888-6133. We’d love to help you complete your landscape project!
