Ideas for Brick Front Homes Using River Rocks

River Rock Veneers

• The weight of natural river rock makes it difficult to use to cover brick. Instead, a river rock veneer provides easy coverage with less cost and less weight. They are produced by several companies and are available from home improvement and hardware stores across the country. Covering brick with the veneers is a fairly simple, but time consuming, process. Mortar must be laid over the bricks before the veneers are placed, which may be difficult for novice handymen. These veneers are extremely durable and can create a clean, modern look for a home.

Columns

• A set of decorative columns can create a pleasing, symmetrical shape to the front of a brick home. If installed properly, the two textures can create good curb appeal. Columns can generally be created using different size stones in a variety of colors. These stones can be carefully stacked as high as necessary, and each piece is mortared together. The columns can be topped off with a shingled roof to form an awning or left open to make room for weeping plants or other greenery.

Sidewalk

• River rock is diverse enough to be used as sidewalk material through a yard, garden or front of the home. A sidewalk design can be accomplished several ways, one being a combination of river rock and concrete, the other created with individual stones mortared together. Either will provide a stable walkway that is usually slip proof and water absorbent. The stones can vary in color and size, creating a nice contrast to the brick of the home.

Tiles

• For spicing up the entryway, river rock tiles can be the ideal accent to a brick home. Like traditional slate tiles, river rock tiles can be laid in a variety of designs and patterns both inside and outside. The tiles are durable and water resistant and, if sealed properly, will avoid staining. The tiles should be placed then 'glued' in place with mortar. The pebble flooring comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it diverse enough to fit in with most decor.