Why choose natural stone for your garden?
Editor: Sarah Leeming (11/04/19 5.36:42)
If you are considering a
natural stone patio, let Ethan Mason’s top tips help you to decide.
Ethan
Mason is passionate about beautiful, natural stone, we love that it is unique
in every way.
So if you want a show stopping garden that stands out from the crowd, then choose natural stone paving.
If you
are considering an Ethan Mason natural stone patio for your outdoor space, then we
recommend that you remember the following:
1) Patio
use
Will the
patio area have lots of ‘traffic’ will it be well-used by pets and children,
for example. In which case, you may want to consider a darker natural stone,
which will not show dirt as quickly.
2) Wet
and dry paving
Consider
the colour of the paving slabs when they are both wet and dry. Certain aspects
of the paving, like the undertones, pattern and veining will be beautifully
enhanced when the paving is wet.
3)
Natural imperfections
This
beautiful stone is naturally formed. It consists of many different layers of
natural deposits. These have been compacted together over thousands of years.
Remember no two
paving slabs are the same, texture and veining will differ from paving
slab, to paving slab. Be prepared for some natural imperfections.
4)
Calibration
Ethan
Mason natural stone is calibrated - however there will be some tolerances
because it is a natural product. Water will collect unevenly on the pavings surface, but
will dry out as it absorbs through the stone. We always recommend that a patio
is installed with a slight fall, which will allow the water to run
off naturally.
5)
Colour, size and finish
Always
check the colour, veining, size and finish of the stone before you buy. A
smooth stone is more consistent in colour, but riven patio packs contain a
blend of coloured paving.
6) Colour
blend
Always check the colour blend of the paving before it is fixed. Dry lay your patio before installation so you can check the colour blend. This is extremely important if you are using two or more packs of paving.
7) Porous
Natural
stone is porous - meaning that liquids will soak in easily. When entertaining,
be careful with spillages as this could stain the paving. Regular cleaning will help to keep your patio in tip top condition.
8)
Aftercare
It is
important that you regularly clean your natural stone, this will stop the
paving from becoming slippery from algae and dirt, especially during the cold, damp and wetter months.
Do not
use any harmful chemicals, like acid on the paving.
9) Strong
Natural
stone is strong and hardwearing, so it will stand the test of time.
10)
Installation
In our FAQ section of our website you will find a simple guide to installing a natural stone patio, so make sure you take a look at this before work starts.
Ethan
Mason natural stone paving - the beauty of nature