Natural stone has been long renowned for its organic warmth, timeless elegance, and unique design potential. Bluestone vs. flagstone, in particular, are popular outdoor hardscaping choices for walkways, driveways, walls, and outdoor rooms. Although both are perfect natural stone options for your Long Island landscape, each comes with its own pros and cons.
Selecting the right natural stone
Generic flagstone is composed of sedimentary rock split into layers, a process which produces flat slabs ready for residential or commercial use. Common types of flagstone include sandstone, limestone, slate, and – you guessed it – bluestone. Generic flagstone is widely available in neutral-colored hues which integrate well into a natural landscape. The rich, blue-grey color of bluestone is best used to make hardscaping features pop.
Durability
Although bluestone is technically a type of flagstone, these natural stone options differ somewhat in their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and the tests of time. As a rule of thumb, bluestone is sturdier and holds in place better than generic flagstone, which is only weather-resistant in thick, compact variations. Naturally dense bluestone is more resilient against the elements. However, Natural Stone by Unilock holds the ultimate answer to increased durability due to its unparalleled low water absorption, freeze-thaw durability, and impressive load-bearing capacity. Available in any colors, Unilock Natural Stone is backed by their lifetime guarantee.
Functionality
As with any paving material, bluestone and flagstone each have specific practical strengths and weaknesses. Before selecting one of these natural stone types for your Long Island landscape, consider how you intend to use your hardscaping. For instance, will your flooring be exposed to constant poolside splashing or spills from an outdoor dining room? Although bluestone and flagstone tend to be slip-proof when left in their slightly rough, organic form, the former is naturally more slip-resistant. When choosing hardscaping for a pool deck or other sun-prone area, keep in mind that dark-colored bluestone retains more heat than lighter flagstone varieties.
Design Considerations
Bluestone and flagstone are both perfect selections for bringing natural exuberance to your Long Island landscape, each lending its own charm. Choose bluestone for a guaranteed classic look, even in the most plant-rich setting. Produce a clean, even aesthetic with cut bluestone pavers arranged in an ashlar or running bond pattern. Flagstone works well with contemporary designs because it preserves an earthy element on your landscape in a refined manner.
Moreover, flagstone grants optimal aesthetic flexibility, since this natural stone type is available in an array of shapes, textures, and colors. You can, of course, combine natural stone with manufactured concrete products. For instance, try pairing earth-toned flagstone pavers with Unilock’s Rivercrest retaining wall for a structured, yet natural look.
With the right information, selecting the perfect natural stone for your Long Island landscape doesn’t need to be a challenge. Integrate natural stone into your yard for a picture-perfect property. Learn more about the advantages of choosing Natural Stone by Unilock here.
