Advantages of Using Modular Block for Your Retaining Wall

September 22nd, 2016 Posted in Modular Block
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While natural stone can make a beautiful retaining wall, there are some advantages to choosing modular blocks. Man-made modular blocks are easily available and are very durable for building stable structures for landscaping, including retaining walls. If you are planning on building a retaining wall as a summer project, consider these advantages of using modular blocks versus natural stone.

  • Uniform size. One of the biggest advantages of modular blocks is that they are easy to stack and build with due to their uniform size and shape. Modular blocks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but whatever you choose, every block will be the same.
  • Curved walls. If you want to build a curved retaining wall, modular blocks are an excellent choice. You have more flexibility in design shapes with formed blocks that can be easily stacked in different designs.
  • Low maintenance. Modular block retaining walls do not require mortar and are easy to maintain once they are in place. Without mortar, you will not need to worry about the blocks cracking, which is another advantage.
  • Affordability. Last, but certainly not least, modular blocks are an affordable alternative to natural stone. With the extra money you save on your retaining wall, you can plan another project for your yard this summer.

Both natural stone and modular blocks are viable options for building your retaining wall, but if you are looking for an affordable, versatile material, modular blocks may be a good choice for your project. Talk to your local landscape supplier that offers modular block and natural stone to determine the best material for your new retaining wall.

Posted on behalf of:
Alliance Stone
5420 Campground Rd
Cumming, GA 30040
(404) 759-0617

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5 Creative Uses for Boulders in Your Landscape Design

September 22nd, 2016 Posted in Natural Stone
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What can you do with a large boulder in your yard? Plenty! Boulders can add depth and dimension to your landscape design in a variety of ways. There is something about natural stone that can add beauty to a yard that commonplace garden objects can’t offer. To give your landscaped yard a unique look, consider these five ideas for using boulders in your landscaping design.

  1. Focal point. Wherever you want to create a focal point, using a boulder can draw the eyes to that area. A giant boulder adorned with potted plants or maybe even flowers planted on the rock is a wonderful focal spot.
  2. Natural furniture. Do you have a fire pit in your backyard? Considering using boulders for natural seating around the fire. They will not burn or melt like many other outdoor chairs and offer a beautiful, natural look when not in use.
  3. Rock garden. Want to conserve water, yet need to fill your garden space? Create a rock garden with a few large boulders to add dimension and interest.
  4. Natural waterfalls. Want to create a beautiful waterfall in your yard? Large boulders can make an excellent base for your natural water feature.
  5. Edging. Boulders can create a natural edge and barrier for your yard or driveway. It is a great way to keep vehicles off your lawn with a beautiful edge of natural stone.

There is a wide variety of sizes, shapes and types of boulders available. Visit your local landscape supplier or quarry to find a large selection of boulders that can add beauty and depth to your landscape design.

Posted on behalf of:
Culbreth Stone
Whitwell, TN 37397
423-930-8249

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Choosing the Right Gravel for Your Driveway

September 22nd, 2016 Posted in Gravel
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Gravel is one of the most affordable materials for driveways, creating a durable surface that doesn’t require high maintenance. However, it is not as simple as just pouring down a top coat of gravel over a dirt base. For proper strength, drainage and durability, you need a combination of gravel types to build a solid gravel driveway that will last for years to come.

A quality gravel driveway should consist of at least three layers of gravel of different types. You need a base layer with larger stones, a middle layer with medium size rocks and a top layer with the small gravel. Using these three steps while tampering down each layer can create the durability and drainage you need. Here are the three gravel types that are often used for driveways:

  • Base layer. The bottom base layer should be #1 angular gravel with stones about four-inches in diameter, the size of a baseball. The angular gravel is not round, but crushed rock that works well for stabilizing driveways.
  • Middle layer. For the second layer, medium-sized angular #4 gravel should be used in a four-inch layer. This will bind with the bottom layer to create a solid foundation.
  • Top layer. For the last layer, small gravel about the size of a coin should be used in another four-inch coating. Typically, #57 gravel works well for this layer.

Choosing the right type and size of gravel for your driveway can make a big difference in how long it will last. Talk to your local landscape supplier that offers various sizes of gravel for more tips on building your new driveway.

Posted on behalf of:
Green Brothers Earth Works
680 Franklin Rd, SE
Marietta, GA 30067
(770) 590-8220

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