Where Does Flagstone Originate?

What is flagstone and where does it come from? This popular natural stone is used in many landscaping and hardscaping projects, yet most people are unaware of what this stone is and where it originates. The flat shape makes it perfect for paving outdoor areas or covering surfaces, used for outdoor and indoor natural stone projects. Understanding the nature of flagstone and the different options available can help you determine the best type for your next project.

What Is Flagstone?

Simply put, flagstone is not a certain type of stone but more of a shape of sedimentary rock. Most flagstone is made from slate or limestone and can come in a variety of colors, but it is usually sold as a flat rock in various sizes. These rocks are used in paving, retaining walls, fireplaces and surface coverings for a natural and beautiful appearance that is durable and can withstand the elements.

Tennessee Flagstone

Flagstone can be quarried from anywhere with sedimentary rock formations, but one popular area in the U.S. is Tennessee. The flagstone from Tennessee is usually brown or gray, with varying hues of these colors depending on where it is quarried. Tennessee flagstone is shipped all over the U.S. to landscape suppliers due to the high quality and demand for this unique and durable natural stone that can be used in many different projects.

If you are planning project using natural stone as a paving or covering, consider the benefits of using Tennessee flagstone. Contact a local quarry or landscape supplier in your area that offers Tennessee flagstone to see the different sizes and varieties available to create a unique and lasting surface made from beautiful natural stone.

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

Make the Most of Your Slopes with Stone Retaining Walls

If you have steep slopes on your property, this can be wasted space. It can be difficult to plant, and erosion is a concern when the wetter months arrive. Retaining walls are not only a way to combat erosion; they can be used to transform slopes and hills into useable spaces. Here are some ideas to make the most of your slopes with retaining walls made from natural stone.

Tiered Garden

Using two or more retaining walls, you can tier your slope and create one or more flat spaces for planting. The natural stone walls create the perfect edging for a stunning rose garden or a bed of wild flowers. You can turn a unused hill into a beautiful landscape for your front or backyard that will be the envy of your neighbors.

Hill Patio

Another option is to use retaining walls to create a patio to overlook your property. This can be a nice place to add a fire pit for evening marshmallow roasting, created with flagstone or fieldstone for a natural look to blend in with the surrounding plant life. By night it can be a place for “camping” at home, while during the day it can be a beautiful hardscape that enhances your nearby slope.

Natural stone retaining walls can add depth and interesting edges to your property, while protecting your property from erosion and creating useable spaces. Visit your local quarry to find the right natural stones to use to build your retaining walls to revamp your slopes and hills. Your local supplier can give you tips on the ways to use natural stone and refer you to local hardscape contractors that can help build your new useable slope.

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

Is It Time to Add Gravel to Your Driveway?

Gravel driveways are economical and require little professional maintenance compared to paved options. However, that does not mean they are maintenance-free. Annual raking can help keep gravel level and improve the surface, but over time gravel will become compacted and you may need to add more gravel to resurface your driveway. Here are some signs it is time to invest in adding to new gravel to your driveway.

Pothole Problems

Does your driveway have potholes or areas where water collects in puddles? Erosion and wear can lead to low spots that need filling to create a level surface again. While you can rake and fill these in, without adding new gravel and compacting it, the problem will continue to get worse.

Tire Tracks

Using the same spots to park your vehicle can leave tire tracks. You may even get grass or weeds growing in the areas between the tire tracks. Once again, spreading the gravel will help, but eventually you will need to add more gravel to fill in the worn areas.

Contours and Slopes

The shape of your driveway can change. It may become contoured, creating a low area that collects water, or slope in one direction or another. This can cause drainage issues that can be annoying and detrimental to your property.

If it is time to add more gravel to your driveway, you can save money by doing this yourself. You will need new gravel and equipment to compact and rake the new gravel into a level surface. Contact your local landscape supplier for gravel delivery to your home. They can suggest the right gravel type and the amount of gravel you will need to resurface your driveway.

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