Uses for Natural Sand in Landscaping

Are you planning a project that will require sand? There are many landscaping and home improvement projects that use sand as a material. From creating a play area for the kids to paving a patio with natural stone, sand can be a useful material for your home projects. However, it is important to choose the right sand for your projects. Here are some of the landscaping and other home projects that may require sand and the right sand to buy for the best results.

  • Sand is perfect for helping stabilize pavers and fill the cracks between the stones. It can be poured before the pavers are lain, then swept into cracks to keep pavers in place and reduce weed growth. Granite dust is a good choice for this type of project.
  • Leveling lawns. There are types of grasses that require leveling with the use of sand. Some grasses that benefit from river sand leveling include Zoyzia, Bermuda and Centipede.
  • Sand boxes and playgrounds. For a sand box or sand for around swing sets and slides, white beach sand is preferable. You will want white sand that has been screened to remove impurities.
  • River sand can be used to help improve drainage in soils and gardens.
  • Masonry. Masonry uses sand to create mortar and cement; natural sand can have advantages to manufactured varieties due to the smooth exteriors of granules.

While manufactured sand can have its benefits for some applications, natural sand can be a wise choice for your home projects. If you need sand for a project, visit your local landscape supplier that offers natural sand options.

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

How to Turn Your Yard into a Work of Art with Natural Stone

Your outdoor space is your place to relax, entertain and enjoy the sun. You want a place that is inviting and represents your personal style, while adding beauty and value to your home. Natural stone can be used in many ways in your outdoor living space. Not only is stone gorgeous and durable, it can create an artful space that you can enjoy for many years to come. Here are some ways to add natural stone to enhance the beauty of your yard and living space.

  • Flagstone patio. The depth and uniqueness of flagstone can make your patio come to life. You can choose irregularly shaped stone that fits together like a puzzle for a stunning paved patio, or uniform pieces for a modern look.
  • Boulder edging. Boulders are a wonderful way to separate or edge areas. Use large boulders around your patio or garden to create barriers between areas, while adding natural beauty to your yard.
  • Natural stone fire pit or fireplace. An outdoor fire source is a wonderful addition to your outdoor space for evening entertainment. Natural stone is perfect to make your fire pit or fireplace the centerpiece of your patio.
  • Natural stone steps. Slabs of natural stone are perfect for outdoor stair treads, whether you are adding a few steps into a sunken patio or up a hill on your property. Flagstone or ashlar are good choices for creating natural stone steps.

There are many ways to make your yard and patio a work of art with natural stone. Visit your local quarry to checkout the different natural stone options for your next outdoor project.

Posted on behalf of:
Culbreth Stone
1968 US-41
Pelham, TN 37366
(423) 930-8249

Difference Between Fieldstone and Flagstone

If you are considering a natural stone landscaping project, flagstones and fieldstones are likely to pop up in any research you do on the subject. Both are very popular for paving, retaining walls and for structures like fire pits. They both are durable and beautiful, but which is the best for your project? Here is a basic overview of both types of natural stone to help you determine which is the right option for your next landscaping project.

Fieldstone Basics

Simply, fieldstones are rough stones that are often found in fields or other above ground areas. Unlike many stones that are quarried, fieldstones are naturally formed, not cut from large layers of rock. These stones have broken off mountains and cliffs, many from glaciers, floods and other natural occurrences. Their beauty and shape are derived from many years of exposure to the elements.

Fieldstone is wonderful for creating unique, natural stone structures or focal points. They are irregular in shape, so they are better for rock fencing, garden ponds and fire pits, but can be used for a garden path.

Flagstone

Flagstone is a quarried stone, usually limestone or bluestone, cut into flat pavers. These stones can be cut in similar shapes or sizes, and come in a variety of colors, depending on the quarry location. Flagstones can be used for siding, fireplaces and many natural stone surfaces, but are one of the most popular options for natural stone paving. Flagstones are wonderful for patios, walkways and around your pool.

Before your next natural stone project, visit your local quarry that offers both options of natural stone. Your can view the different options available and make the best choice for your project.

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