Creative Ways to Use Pavers and Flagstone

Everyone knows pavers are great for driveways, patios and walkways. When you want a more dramatic appearance, flagstone and other natural stones can also be used to create a paved surface. However, there are other ways to use pavers and flagstone around your home to add function and beauty. Here are a few creative ideas to implement paving stones in your outdoor spaces.

BBQ Grill Platform

Make a flat platform for your grill in your backyard. Pavers are a quick and easy option to make a nice grilling area that gives your grill an even surface. If you put your grill on grass, it is often unlevel. This can make it hard to get the right seal for your lid to seal in the smoke and heat. A paved platform adds function and style for outdoor cooking.

Stair Treads

Have a slope or hill in your yard that is hard to climb? Use flagstone or other stone slabs to make natural stone stair treads that make it easy to climb your hill while adding beauty to your backyard.

Fire Pit Safety

If you have a fire pit in your backyard, paving around the pit is a good idea. This eliminates worries of sparks starting dry grass on fire.

Raised Flower Gardens

Paving stones are great for retaining walls, which can make an excellent raised flower bed or garden. Use natural stone for a classic look or formed pavers for a clean, modern style for your raised garden.

Pavers and natural stones like flagstone are very versatile and easy to maintain. Visit your local quarry and landscape supplier to check out the different options available for your next outdoor project.

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

Upgrade your Pool Design with Flagstone

Did you notice this last summer that your pool deck is looking old and faded? Maybe it was never that wonderful to begin with…many pools have plain cement for decking, which is affordable but not the most beautiful material. If you want to change the look of your pool area to give it a makeover for the next swimming season, consider a flagstone pool deck. Here are some of the benefits of using flagstone to border your pool.

  • Naturally non-slip. Flagstone is great for pool decks in the safety realm. The surface is naturally non-slip, non-skid, making it safe for getting in and out of the pool.
  • Easy to maintain. Flagstone takes very little maintenance to keep it looking beautiful. A quick sweep or hose off is all that is needed to keep it clean and there is no need for any sealant.
  • Longevity. Natural stone has already existed for hundreds of years before it is quarried – you know that it will last a lifetime or more. While it may be more expensive than some other paving options, you get natural stone that will outlast most other products.
  • Beauty. Nothing can outshine natural stone for a pool deck. The look of flagstone is stunning and the stones come in many different colors and shades to choose from for your decking. Plus, every stone is unique, giving you a pool deck that doesn’t look like anyone else’s.

For a classic, beautiful new look for your pool deck, consider the advantages of choosing flagstone. Talk to your local quarry about pricing and options for using flagstone for your pool decking project.

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

Is Mulch Necessary for Your Plants and Trees?

You see mulch in most landscaping, usually around shrubs, bushes, trees and larger plants. Whether it is bark mulch, pine straw or another option, you will rarely see a professional landscaping design that does not use mulch. There is a reason that mulch is used by landscapers; they know it has many benefits beyond just a nice look. However, is it necessary to mulch around your plants and trees?

The quick answer to this question is no. No, it is not necessary to mulch, but it is a good idea. Mulch offers protection and insulation for the plants and trees you use it around. This helps protect the roots from cold weather and retains moisture in the soil. As mulch breaks down, it can add organic nutrients to the soil that can feed your trees and plants. Plus, it keeps weeds at bay that destroy the look of your landscaping and steal nutrients from your other plants.

All mulch is different, but it is usually best to add mulch in the spring and fall to replenish any that erodes or breaks down into the soil. Fall mulching helps protect roots during the winter and spring mulching helps give your plants the added moisture protection they need before summer.

All in all, mulch is beneficial for most larger plants and trees, making it an excellent addition to your landscaping. To determine what type of mulch is the best option for your landscaping, talk to your local landscape supplier who offers several types of mulch. They can help you decide which is best and how often it should be applied for the best results.

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