Choosing landscaping stone doesn’t have to be complicated. Most successful projects hinge on understanding how size, appearance, cost, and practical needs intersect. Here’s what matters most when making your selection.
The size and shape of stone directly affect how areas function, especially when it comes to foot traffic.
For High-Traffic Areas: Flat stones like flagstone create stable walking surfaces. Rainbow flagstone and Sugarloaf work well for patios and walkways because their broad, flat surfaces provide solid footing. The irregular shapes actually help - they fit together like puzzle pieces. Smaller gravel can work for paths, too, but it needs proper compaction. Angular gravel, when compacted, compacts well and creates relatively smooth surfaces.
For Traffic Control: Larger stones naturally discourage foot traffic. Moss Boulders protect planted areas without obvious barriers. Medium decorative rock (2-4 inches) is uncomfortable to walk on but still looks intentional, perfect for foundation plantings or under trees.
Compaction Matters: Smaller, more angular stones compact tightly, creating firmer surfaces but slower drainage. Larger stones maintain gaps for improved water flow but may require more extensive base preparation for stability.
Different stones create completely different looks.
Natural and Earthy Styles:
Modern and Clean:
Rustic Character:
Budget plays a significant role in stone selection, but understanding what drives costs helps you make smarter decisions. Cost is more dependent on factors such as the distance the product is coming from, rather than simply the type of stone. If you prefer colors natural to your region, your costs may be lower since local materials require less transportation. However, if you’re seeking a more specialty appearance, expect higher prices as the stone may need to come from farther away or require additional time to sort and source for that specific look.
While processed materials such as concrete pavers can offer good functionality, natural stone often provides better long-term value because it lasts longer and maintains its appearance better than manufactured alternatives. Making the initial investment worthwhile despite potentially higher upfront costs.
Different stones handle water very differently. Larger river rock and flagstone with open joints allow water to flow through easily. Crushed materials that compact tightly may need additional drainage planning to avoid water problems.
Maintenance varies quite a bit between stone types. Some flagstone may need periodic sealing to prevent staining. Gravel areas need occasional re-leveling and weed control. Most stone features require minimal ongoing maintenance once they’re properly installed, which is one of the big advantages over other landscaping materials. Much of our product is sourced from Oklahoma and surrounding states that have intense freeze/thaw spells. Coupled with HOT summers, our natural materials are hardy and capable of withstanding weather extremes.
Climate considerations matter too. Materials must be able to withstand local freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or shifting. Natural stone typically performs well in weather extremes. In hot climates, light-colored natural stone stays cooler underfoot than manufactured materials, making it more comfortable around pools or patios.
The key to a successful stone landscape is considering everything together rather than selecting materials in isolation. Start by establishing an overall color scheme. Warm earth tones work well together - Sugarloaf flagstone pairs nicely with Desert Gold gravel and Moss Boulders. Cool grays and blues create different moods but should be used consistently throughout the space.
Stone choices should support how people move through and use your spaces. Pathways need logical connections, and transitions between different stone types should feel natural and serve clear purposes.
Start with some basic questions about each area:
The answers will point you toward appropriate stone choices. Whether you need walkable flagstone, affordable crushed gravel, dramatic boulders, or combinations that serve multiple purposes, understanding these basics leads to better decisions. Landscaping stone represents a long-term investment, so taking time to choose appropriately upfront means you’ll enjoy the results for years to come.
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