Quick Tips for Adding Stonework to Your Home or Property

29 September 2015
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Natural stone can be a great choice for a building material, whether it's for a home's face or for a large privacy wall. Stonework is very durable and very regal looking while still looking natural, and it works well with any type of décor. Your contractor or builder can help you determine the best choice of stone for your home or for a wall around your property, but note a few quick tips before talking to him or her. This will help you to determine the best choice of stone for any project.

1. Choosing color

The color of stone you choose is very important because once you start stacking it for a wall or add it to the face of your home, you'll have a very large and eye-catching surface. Using a dark stone for a wall around your property can make it look somewhat gothic, and if you have a home with dark red brick and choose a dark stone to add to the entryway, this too can make the surface seem overly dark. For a brick home, choose a flagstone with a grey color and some red in the pattern. 

For a home with siding, choose a stone that enhances without clashing with the color of the home. A soft grey is very neutral and coordinates with just about any color. For a property wall, a natural earth tone of brown and tan may keep the look neutral without overwhelming your property. 

2. Choosing the type of stone

Country field stone is large stone that is usually somewhat round in shape. It is typically applied face up so that you can see the round shape and variation in the design. It can be a good choice for building a chimney or for when you want to create a contrast to the square shape of brick, such as when you want a stone entryway. 

Stacked stone is often used for property walls; this is a type of natural, square stone that is often something thin and which is set on top of each other rather than face up. The stacking can provide added strength and durability.

Density should also be considered when choosing a type of stone, as your climate can affect the stone's durability. Granite and bluestone can withstand cold weather, whereas other thin types of stone may get brittle in very cold climates and actually crack. Limestone and sandstone are very porous and can absorb snow and moisture and, as this freezes, it can expand and break the stone. Choose a stone density according to your climate so it lasts.

For more information and tips on using stonework, contact general contractors that specialise in stonework, such as Dobson's Monumental Works Pty Ltd.