It doesn’t matter whether you are looking at building a patio, a garden or just trying to fix up your front yard, one thing is certain: there are only two good options when it comes to building materials. The first one is sand and gravel, while the second is flagstone. Sand has some benefits, such as its ability to act as an eco-friendly substitute for oil, which is responsible for many air quality problems, including asthma attacks. But on the flip side of the coin, sand is not the most practical option, as it can easily become buried underfoot. And if you are looking for an inexpensive yet durable material for building a patio, flagstone might be a better alternative.
Flagstone is a sedimentary rock that is formed by the action of river floodwaters and runoff. As it flows over the land, layers of fossils and debris gradually build up and form a hard surface. Today, this same sedimentary rock is recognized as one of the most durable and cost-effective building materials in the world. Flagstone’s strength lies in its composition, which consists mainly of quartz, dolomite and limestone. These ingredients make it ideal for use as patio material, especially in areas where water drainage is a problem. It can also withstand very high temperatures and does not rot, even in humid climates.
When it comes to selecting a flagstone patio, you have plenty of artistic options. First of all, consider the scale of your property. Smaller properties usually require smaller flagstone patios, while larger ones require larger patios. A medium sized flagstone patio will do for a backyard garden, while a large patio is more suited for a front yard landscape. Keep in mind that flagstone is not a perfect material, as it does not hold up well to extreme temperatures or acidic liquids like vinegar.
When selecting a color, be careful about the type of sunlight your patio receives. Do you live in a sunny area, with direct sunlight all year round? Are you planning to paint your patio a dark color, so that it blends with the rest of your garden? Or are you hoping for the beauty of an unpainted flagstone patio? All of these options are great, but if you have no way of controlling the sunlight, it is better to choose a different material.
Another important consideration is texture. While flagstone patios are already smooth, some types may have rough spots or ridges in certain areas. If you would prefer a smooth surface, be aware that flagstone does not come naturally with grains. You will have to smoothen it yourself. Some companies sell products that can help you do this, while others will come and do it for you.
For a natural looking flagstone patio, you can opt for honed flagstone. This will look like flagstone even though it has been chemically processed. Chemical treatments make flagstone smoother but leave it with a bit more dullness. It is still one of the most beautiful options for creating a natural-looking patio. Some homeowners prefer the texture, anyway, since they find that it adds a unique beauty to their home.
If you are worried about the price of flagstone, don’t. Pavers may be faster, but if you really want to create an authentic “stone garden” on your patio, then nothing compares to the durability and beauty of natural flagstone. A regular flagstone patio can last for years, and some homeowners even use their patio as a family room.
In the end, the choice is up to you. Do you want to go with a synthetic or natural material? Do you want to make your patio the envy of the neighborhood? You have only two feet to get started, but getting started is half the fun. Soon you will have a beautiful flagstone patio, which will add value and beauty to your home.