The Pros and Cons of Different Walkway Stones in NJ: An Analysis by Wicki Wholesale Stone, Inc.

Walkways are more than just functional paths—they can also add a transformative touch to your landscape. There is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing the perfect paving material for your NJ home. One element that stands out for its durability and timeless appeal is natural stone. From the rustic charm of Bluestone to the understated elegance of Granite, each stone has its unique qualities. This article, by Wicki Wholesale Stone, Inc., will shed light on the benefits and drawbacks of different walkway stones in NJ.

The Benefits of Using Natural Stone

Natural stone lends an air of sophistication and grandeur that few materials can match. But their beauty is not just skin-deep. Here’s why natural stone could be an excellent choice for your walkway:

1. Longevity: Natural stones can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use. Given proper maintenance, a natural stone walkway could last a lifetime.
2. Versatility: Stones come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing homeowners to create their unique walkway designs.
3. Eco-Friendly: Stone is a naturally occurring material that does not require harmful chemicals or manufacturing processes.

The Drawbacks of Using Natural Stone

While natural stone has a lot of benefits, it’s only fair that we also discuss some of the drawbacks, including:

1. Cost: Because of the extraction, cutting, and polishing process of natural stone, the overall cost may be higher compared to other materials.
2. Maintenance: Although reasonably durable, certain types of stones may benefit from sealing to maintain their look and prevent water damage. Most natural stone options do not require sealing.
3. Installation Difficulty: Installing a stone walkway needs a professional’s expertise due to the technicalities and heavy labor involved.

An Overview of Popular Walkway Stone Types

1. Bluestone: This durable, versatile stone offers a natural yet sophisticated look. Bluestone has proven to last a century or more in walkways – we know that because we reclaim 100+ year old bluestone quite often.
2. Other Sandstones – Bluestone is a sandstone – it is highly compressed sand. There are many other types of sandstone and these walkway stone options are often the most colorful stone we offer.
3. Granite: Known for its durability, granite withstands weather conditions flawlessly. However, it’s one of the more costly stone options.
4. Limestone: Limestone gives an elegant touch to any landscape but may require frequent resealing to prevent staining.

FAQs

Which natural stone is best for a high-traffic walkway?

Bluestone and granite tend to be the most durable, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas.

How do I maintain a natural stone walkway?

This largely depends on the type of stone used. However, most stone walkways can be maintained through regular cleaning as needed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right natural stone for your NJ walkway comes down to balancing aesthetics, durability, and your budget. While every stone has pros and cons, the undeniable allure and longevity of natural stone make it a worthy choice for many homeowners. By using this guide by Wicki Wholesale Stone, Inc., we hope you’d be able to make an informed decision on your walkway project.