Ideas on Paving With Natural Stone

Patio

• Laying a natural stone patio can enhance the overall appeal of your home. Patios provide a defined space for family to eat, entertain and relax outdoors. Light stone surfaces like travertine pavers do not get hot under the sun so they're ideal for a pool patio or area where you'll want to walk without shoes. Both snapped pieces and cut stone work well for patios, depending on the look you want to create; flagstone has a rustic appeal, while slate tiles and stone pavers offer polished style. Stone is also a practical choice if you plan to install a fireplace or fire pit.

Loose Walkway

• Winding walkways paved from irregularly-shaped stones give a landscape a casual feel. Fieldstones and flagstones are cut or split so their surfaces are flat, but natural shapes remain intact. Set them over a foundation of gravel and a bed of sand with edge restraints along the sides to help hold the stones in place. Plant grass between the stones to make the walkway appear more organic, or compact stone dust between pieces to prevent weeds and reduce maintenance.

Paver Path

• Similar to a classic red brick walkway, paver paths provide structure and a welcoming yet formal element to a landscape. Cut from natural stones into a standard size of 6-by-6 or 6-by-9, stone pavers fit flush against each other to form patterns including herringbone and basket weave. Avoid the need to cut pavers by making the path straight with angled turns rather than curves. Lock the pavers in position and add definition to the path with metal edge restrains concealed by low-growing flowers and evergreens.

Driveway

• The sensation of driving over a stone driveway quickly becomes a familiar association with home. A stone driveway also adds to a home's curb appeal, transforming an ordinary surface into a focal point. Use cobblestones for old-world style or form an intricate pattern with interlocking pavers. Install a driveway as you would a walkway or patio, over a foundation of gravel or concrete, but plan to excavate at least 8 inches so the foundation is strong enough to support the weight load and frequent use.