Times to Use Natural Stone vs. Manufactured Hardscape Product

Hardscape materials encompass a wide range of non-living elements used in construction and landscaping to create functional and aesthetic features.  

Landscaping Stone

• Landscaping stone encompasses a variety of natural or manufactured stones used to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of outdoor spaces.
• Natural landscaping stones can include materials like flagstone, river rocks, boulders and pebbles that are sourced from nature. 
• Manufactured landscaping stone includes concrete pavers, bricks and other man-made materials. 
• Landscaping stone plays a crucial role in creating attractive outdoor environments, offering choices for creating walkways, walls, fountains and other decorative elements. 
• Selection depends on factors such as appearance, cost, durability and specific needs of the landscaping project. 

The choice of hardscape materials is vital to achieving the desired aesthetic, functionality and longevity of the project. The selection should consider the project’s design, budget, and local environment.

The right choice can enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces, increase property value, and create an inviting environment. On the other hand, the wrong material can lead to costly repairs, maintenance challenges and unsightly landscapes. Factors such as climate, intended use, budget and environmental impact must be considered when making this decision. Ultimately, the choice of material can make or break a hardscape project, making it essential to choose wisely to ensure the desired results and satisfaction with the outdoor space.

Natural stones like granite, marble and sandstone are formed through geological processes spanning millions of years. The result is unique textures, patterns and color hues appealing to a wide range of architectural and landscape projects. However, natural stone also comes with variable qualities making it crucial to select the right type based on the specific application. Careful consideration of factors such as stone type, location of origin and maintenance requirements is necessary to make the most of the remarkable characteristics of natural stone, ensuring it serves its intended purpose effectively and retains its aesthetic appeal over time.

Natural stone has been trusted by civilizations across the globe for thousands of years. Natural stone enhances any project with its timeless beauty and durability, however, because the product comes directly from the earth, there are limitations with color ranges and patterns. Working with the product also requires a specific skill set, making the application of the product more expensive, along with the fact that it is not the cheapest product on the yard.

SiteOne’s own Solstice Stone Collections offers a variety of natural stone products curated into collections for specific outdoor projects. The Coastal Collection is a series of seven different colored travertine, marble and limestone flooring with matching coping and accents for pool projects. The Elevations Collection includes different colors and textures of natural stone thin veneer for vertical applications, both indoors and out. The Castle Collection is a collection of natural stone flooring and coordinating accents installed with the ease of manufactured products, available in three different colors. 

Understanding manufactured stone is crucial when exploring hardscape options. Manufactured stone is a versatile building material engineered to mimic the appearance of natural stone. It is created from aggregates and pigments, offering a wide range of colors, textures and shapes. One of its primary advantages is cost-effectiveness, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious projects. They are durable, weatherproof and stain proof. However, manufactured stone may have a shorter lifespan compared to natural stone and potential environmental concerns due to its manufacturing process. An understanding of these characteristics is vital when considering the use of manufactured stone in hardscape and architectural applications.

Manufactured stone, while offering versatility and cost-effectiveness, does have its limitations. One significant constraint is its lifespan, as it tends to be less durable than natural stone. Over time, manufactured stone may be more susceptible to wear, fading and damage, which can result in the need for replacement or repairs. Furthermore, the manufacturing process can have environmental implications, as it requires energy-intensive production. Despite the variety of textures and colors available, manufactured stone may not fully capture the unique and natural aesthetics of genuine stone. Therefore, these limitations should be carefully considered when deciding on the use of manufactured stone in hardscape and architectural projects.

The choice between natural stone and manufactured stone depends on the specific needs of a project. Natural stone is the preferred option when aesthetic appeal is paramount, such as in historic or traditional settings, or in landscaping projects where the natural beauty and longevity of stone are desired. It’s also the eco-friendly choice for those prioritizing sustainability. In contrast, manufactured stone shines in modern and budget-conscious projects offering a variety of design options and cost-effectiveness. When time is a factor, or when a project requires consistent color and texture options, manufactured stone becomes a practical choice. The decision ultimately revolves around the project’s objectives, design vision, budget and timeline.

Combining both natural stone and manufactured stone in a project can be a strategic approach to leverage the strengths of each material. This hybrid approach is beneficial when you want to achieve a balanced and harmonious landscape or architectural design. For example, natural stone can be used in focal areas to highlight its natural beauty, while manufactured stone can cover larger surface areas for its cost-effectiveness. This blend allows for creative and customizable designs that cater to specific project requirements. The key is in understanding where each material’s strengths lie and how they complement each other to create a visually appealing and functional outdoor or indoor space. 

The choice between natural stone and manufactured stone hinges on a range of factors, from aesthetics and budgets to sustainability and project requirements. Natural stone boasts timeless beauty and durability, making it ideal for historic or eco-friendly projects, but it comes with a higher cost and limited design options. On the other hand, manufactured stone offers versatility and affordability, is suitable for modern, cost-conscious or time-sensitive endeavors, yet it may lack the longevity and natural charm of its counterpart. The decision should be guided by a careful evaluation of these factors, with the understanding that sometimes, a hybrid approach might be the most prudent choice, blending the unique virtues of both materials to achieve the best outcome for a given project.

How Can SiteOne Help

Visit a SiteOne branch today to speak to an associate to purchase the stone for your next project. Or, see our hardscapes offerings for more information on product availability or to purchase online. Our associates are always happy to help answer your questions and guide you on the path to a perfect project.