Differences Between Flagstone And Fieldstone

If you want to use natural stone in your landscaping, you may be wondering what the difference is between fieldstone and flagstone. While both offer the beauty and durability of authentic stone, each has its own benefits. Which stone will be the best fit for you will depend on the type of project you’re undertaking and the end result you are trying to achieve. 

Fieldstone

For a rustic, natural stone to build retaining walls, patios or outdoor firepits, fieldstone is an excellent choice of material. Fieldstones are rocks that have been formed over the centuries from falling off rocky ledges or from glaciers. Rough fieldstones are not quarried but gathered above ground, having a natural, often jagged appearance. However, these stones can also be cut to size to be used in a variety of projects. 

Flagstone

Flagstone is a quarried rock that is generally cut into flat slabs, making it perfect for creating a flat, durable surface. For patios, pool decks, pathways and stairways, flagstone can be used to create a dazzling stone surface which can accentuate any outdoor area. This versatile material is also used for interior designs, especially in bathrooms and sunrooms. 

Both flagstones and fieldstones range in color depending on where they are quarried or gathered. The benefit of both stones is their unique attributes which cannot be duplicated in man-made stone products, such as a level of durability that other materials cannot match. 

If you are not sure which stone would be best for your project, talk to your local landscape supplier or quarry. They can advise you on whether flagstone or fieldstone will be a better fit for your specific needs.

Posted on behalf of Culbreth Stone

Field Stone Landscaping Ideas

Field stones once were considered a burden to remove from the earth to make an area ready for planting. While they may still frustrate the farmer, they now are used to bring beauty as well as function to many landscaping projects. These stones come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors, giving them versatility in how they can be used. Here are a few ways you can use field stones to give your landscaping a new look.

–         Stone wall. One of the oldest and most functional uses for the field stone is a retaining or decorative walls. These stones tend to be flatter and easier to stack, making them perfect for creating a rustic looking wall.

–         Paving. Field stones are a great way to create a natural looking patio or walkway through a garden. Once flush with the ground, they give the impression of a natural paved floor.

–         Borders. Once again, field stones are great to stack, even if just high enough to create a border. Use them to border your garden, mailbox or driveway, adding dimension and natural beauty. They also work well around garden ponds, giving a natural edging.

–         Fire pits. Create your own backyard camping area with a field stone fire pit. Use the flatter stones to edge the pit for a fire-resistant ring and the rounder and jagged stones to create the interior fire pit.

–         Sculpture pieces. Field stones come in so many sizes that larger ones can be made into pieces of art or even furniture. A large flat stone can be used as a table top, making art into function.

Check with your local stone provider for even more creative ideas for the use of field stone in your landscape.

Posted on behalf of Alliance Stone