When it comes to choosing natural stone for your exterior landscaping projects there are so many varieties to choose from, including sandstone, limestone, granite, slate . . . and those are just a few general types. Each type possesses dozens of varieties, grouped by colour, where they were quarried, or other specific properties. For example, Pa. Blue stone is different from other sandstone varieties. Beyond that, take care to understand that you'll be looking for natural stone cut in a specific fashion – smooth or rough, thick or thin.

How can you find the right natural stone for you? There are many different ways to find out information about stone for your project. You can read articles like this one, search the Internet for information on Wikipedia, blogs and other sites, or make a few phone calls to local stone retailers. Natural stone retailer and wholesaler Stone Haven, Inc. Advises people to visit its stone yard in person. According to owner Mike Stone, hands on investigation is the best way to match natural stone to your project.

Mike Stone advises visitors to look at examples of work they like (several are on display in his showroom) and narrow their focus. According to Stone, "For the most natural look in your stonescaping, limit your choices to one or two types of stone. Look for harmonious colours that work together, and find examples of stone work you admire."

Mr. Stone provides the following guidelines for various projects:

Flagstones

Flagstones are large, flat slabs of stone that are approximately 1 to 3 inches thick. They have irregular shapes and rough finishes that provide good traction when they're wet. Choose flagstones that are at least 1 to 1 and ½ inches thick for patios, walkways and as step stones in a garden. Thinner stones that are about an inch thick should be laid in concrete to avoid cracking. Flagstone is available in almost any colour, depending on the natural stone you'd like to use, from black slate to white sandstone.

Cut Stone

Cut stone, sometimes called pattern, is similar to flagstone but has been cut into square or rectangular shapes. This provides a more formal look than flagstones. The back of cut stone is always flat and the edges are sawn. The top of the stone can be smooth or textured, depending on the type of project you're applying it to. Hammering, flaming, tumbling and sandblasting are used to create specific textures. For bathrooms, a texture that allows traction is preferred. Patios can be rough or smooth.

Cobblestones

Once used to pave streets, cobblestones were originally rounded stones up to 10 inches in diameter. Square or rectangular cobblestones came into use later. Cobblestone provides a European look to a landscaped property. Cobblestone is often used in pathways, driveways and path edging. Due to their size, they're easy to work with and stay attractive as your property matures.

Wall Stone

Stone retaining walls or double faced New England stone walls enhance your property by defining its lines and framing your landscape. Like elements in a painting, stone walls direct the eye to see your property from its most pleasing angles.. Field stone is a favourite choice for either type of wall. It comes in sizes and shapes whose variety adds character. Quarry stone is another option, and comes in blocks for easy wall building.