Bluestone is among the hardest variations of natural stone you can find. This means it can be used for a wide variety of applications and will withstand the test of time. Bluestone can be obtained in a variety of subtle, relaxing colors that never fail to add a touch of elegance to a landscape. In addition, incorporating natural stone into your Bergen County, NJ, landscape designs immediately boosts the resale value of your property. Here are some of the many ways you can utilize the beauty of bluestone:
Structures like pillars and retaining walls
Bluestone is very strong and has a high resistance to slipping. This makes it a reliable building material. It has become popular in both residential and commercial building projects for its combination of beauty and effectiveness. Bluestone, like many other natural stones, is also scratch-resistant. When elements indent or damage the surfaces of these stones, the scars created gradually blend into the surrounding stone and simply serve to add further character to the surface. Consider creating retaining walls using bluestone as the vibrant greens within plants will contrast magnificently against the muted grey shades of the stones.
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Water features
Bluestone can also create gorgeous water features owing to its strength, water resistance and non-slip qualities. The rugged textures upon the surfaces of these stones enhance the natural, relaxing atmosphere that is created by running water. These stones can also be found in shades that complement both clear-blue pools and darkened bodies of water.
Paving walkways and patios
Bluestone Sussex County NJ, Bergen County NJ - 5 Stunning Uses
The slip-resistant quality of bluestone is due to the pleasant texture of its surface. This makes it an excellent candidate for pool decks, patios, and walkways as it ensures the safety of those walking over it. Bluestone also works well as a paver option for large, open spaces as each stone is unique. Bluestone slabs are quarried in seams, and each seam may have a different coloring or texture to the next. A combination of unique bluestone pieces will prevent the surface from appearing boring or uniform. Despite their rustic textures and the vintage aesthetic they can bring to some landscapes, these stones are also highly compatible with modern landscape designs. They often serve to contrast sleek materials used elsewhere in the design and always have a rich, luxurious appearance.
Rustic stepping stones
Consider using authentic bluestone to create pathways of stepping stones leading to a pond or water feature. This often achieves a whimsical, romantic look that can make for a landscape design reminiscent of a fantasy world. Bluestone is very low-maintenance, which means you can pretty much forget about the stepping stones after installation and allow creeping mosses to adorn their edges and enhance the pathway’s natural look.
Veneering
Bluestone can be obtained in very thin sheets that are used to adorn structures built from other materials like concrete. This allows any structure to have a natural appearance, despite its underlying man-made components. Fireplaces, water features, and retaining walls can all be veneered with natural bluestone, allowing them to blend seamlessly into any surrounding vegetation.
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Image courtesy of Cambridge Pavers.
