Choosing the right stone for your next landscaping or construction project can feel overwhelming – there’s a lot to consider. From the size and weight of the stone to how it’s installed, not to mention the style you’re going for, the options can pile up fast.
The good news? With just a little guidance, you can find a stone that checks all the boxes–function, form, and finish. Whether you’re sprucing up a backyard, building a retaining wall, or creating a cozy fireplace, understanding the different categories of building stone will help you make the right call.
Let’s break it down into two main groups: wall stone and landscape stone. Then, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best fit for your space and style.
Wall stone is exactly what it sounds like–it’s used to build walls. But not all wall stones are the same. There are two main types, and they each serve a slightly different purpose:
This is your traditional, heavy-duty stone used in structural applications. It’s thicker (usually 3-5 inches) and needs to be laid on a footing that can support its weight. Think of outdoor retaining walls, boundary walls, or anything where stone needs to physically hold things up.
At Minick Materials, you’ll find plenty in this category, like Sugarloaf 4” Chop–a great choice if you’re aiming for a warm, earthy feel that blends in with natural surroundings.
Thin veneer is the sleeker, lighter cousin of full bed depth stone. It’s cut to about 1-inch thick and doesn’t require a structural footing, which means it can be adhered directly to the wall. That opens up all kinds of design possibilities, especially indoors.
It’s ideal for projects like:
Because it’s lighter, it’s easier to transport and install, and it can be used in places where full-depth stone wouldn’t be practical. Plus, you still get all the beauty and variation of natural stone, just in a more flexible package.
You’ll find plenty of Natural Thin Veneer Stone options at Minick, including contemporary picks like white limestone or darker stones for high-contrast looks.
Now let’s talk about landscaping. Whether you’re building a patio, creating a pathway, or refreshing your garden beds, landscape stone offers both beauty and function.
Here are the three most common types you’ll run into:
Flat, broad, and easy to walk on, flagstone is a favorite for patios, walkways, and stepping stones. It’s versatile and can be cut or broken to fit your design. Flagstone lays beautifully into naturalistic outdoor spaces and holds up well under foot traffic.
At Minick, you can explore options like Mult-Blend Flagstone, which brings warm, subtle color variations to your space and works in both formal and relaxed settings.
Gravel might sound basic, but the right kind can completely change the look and feel of a space. Decorative gravel like Desert Gold or River Rock offers a polished, finished look for garden beds, walkways, and borders.
Gravel also helps with drainage and erosion control, making it both practical and attractive. For a more neutral look, Desert Gold offers soft tan and gold tones. Want something bolder? Black Gravel delivers a sleek, modern edge.
These chunkier rocks are perfect for making a statement or creating natural boundaries. Use them to direct foot traffic, fill larger beds, or break up mulch-heavy spaces with texture and contrast. Their size and weight also make them great for discouraging pets or people from walking through certain areas–no fence required.
Minick’s Decorative Rock selection includes styles and colors to match your overall design, whether you like a soft, natural vibe or something more bold and structured.
Now that you know what the options are, how do you decide which is right for you?
Start with style. Your aesthetic should help guide your choice of stone.
Next, think about the application.
And don’t forget the function. Even if a stone looks great, it also needs to work for your project. Consider factors like weight, drainage, and the amount of traffic the area will receive.
The best building stone is one that fits your space, needs, and style. Whether you’re building up with full bed depth stone or laying down a stunning path with flagstone, natural stone brings durability, beauty, and flexibility to every project.
The variety available at Minick Materials makes it easier to find a stone that complements your vision, from the bold and modern to the subtle and natural.