• What exactly are Natural Stones?
• What are these Natural Stones made up of?
• How they are formulated?
• Where are they specifically used?

Considering that natural stones are a material with which not everyone is familiar, let us gather a few answers to these common questions without involving any technical terms related to the natural stone products, obviously the names being the same.

Well, to start with, first we need to understand:

WHAT ARE NATURAL STONES?

Formulated in the lap of nature, these are the big rocks, that are quarried from under the earth, molded to different sizes, finished and polished to a final stone product, and then is used for building and decorative purposes in the market for various architectural elegance. A procedure that seems easy but is actually a long process.

WHAT ARE THESE NATURAL STONES MADE UP OF?

Being derived from the crust of the earth, these big rocks are a by-product of various geological changes, organic, solid, and mineral compositions taking place for millions of years under the earth. If we see in various natural stones, we will find the fossil-like artistic forms on them. Also quarried organically, they are versatile and show variations in color, pattern, texture, and sizes as well. So to keep the sizes intact, they are finished to bring a final stone product that is suitable for installation at a particular place.

WHERE ARE THEY SPECIFICALLY USED?

From eras gone by, we have seen that these natural stones have given grace to some of our well-famous historical structures and monuments of the world. The Egyptian Pyramids of Giza (Egypt), The Qutub Minar – Delhi (India), The Taj Mahal – Agra (India), The Colosseum – Rome (Italy), Monument – Washington D.C (USA) are some of the examples that flaunt the everlasting beauty of these stones.

The peculiar characteristic of this Naturally quarried product is that they are really Eco-friendly and are apt for recent times where people are more inclined towards building a sustainable and therapeutic environment. Taking ahead the initiative of Go Green, people are more interested in buying them for their Green Livings. Because of their characteristic of being exceptionally strong, durable, and long-lasting, they fit into almost every corner of our personal as well as professional space. Be it Interiors like countertops, bathrooms, staircases, wall claddings, or the Exterior patios, pool-sides, walkways, or driveways, they have the form and capacity to cover One and All.

TYPES OF NATURAL STONES

Based on their different characteristics, these stones are divided into various types:

• Sandstones
•  Limestones
•  Basalts
• Quartzite
•  Granites
•  Travertines

TYPES OF NATURAL STONE PRODUCTS

Based on their differentiation above, we have some of the most classic products in the market that not only beautifies the surroundings but add an Old-world charm to them.

1.  COUNTERTOPS

Thinking of extending an aesthetic look to your kitchen or outdoor BBQs, go for these excellent utility providers, that are either fitted on a base or on iron angles. Look for some of the appealing applications of Natural Stone countertops with SUI

2.  BULLNOSE

Recognized by its curved edges, the stone is highly recommended to seal your open edges near the pool areas, fireplaces, particularly the places where one wants to sit and enjoy nature. One of the most demanding products of Stone Universe Inc. it is available in different tones and can be installed at various places.

3.  EASED EDGE

Similar to Bullnose but very distinct from it, we have this product that has straight but safe edges that can be installed as the countertops, at the outdoor oasis, etc. Giving a modern-day visual appeal to the surfaces, the piece of stone has a bit thick edges as compared to bullnose.

4.  COLUMN CAPS

Particularly famous as Pier-caps, these are the square pieces of naturally quarried stone that are used to cover the tall standalone structures. They are either rock-faced or saw cut depending on the stone material. These crowns are generally larger than the size of the column and act as a decorative covering on them to embellish it a bit.

5.  STEPS

A cuboidal structure used in both the exterior and interior of your project is a solitary piece of solid stone material that is used as a platform and as a staircase riser. Used to enhance the look of your patios, this item from SUI has an unparalleled elegance of its own.

6.  STEPPING STONES

This is a product that gives a unique look to your pathways. Think about those starry nights, walking on these geometrical shapes, living the best time of your life, enjoying an unmatched evening around these visually appealing surroundings is a thought to hold. To give more gleam and glimmer to these thoughts Stone Universe has some of the finest shapes in the product in its array. The Heart-shaped, Texas-shaped are few of the examples.

7.  DRIVEWAY PAVERS

As the name suggests, these are like carpeting done with stones to define the walkway or the driveway and curb the monotonous look of our entrances. These stones are strong enough to maintain a hard, strong, and load-bearing structure. Available in a plethora of colors, have a glimpse of the SUI collection for the Driveway Pavers and know its usage and installation.

8.  ASHLAR PATTERNS

Usually referred to as Mixed-sized patterns, these are the organic stone material quarried naturally and finished in distinct sizes to give a zigzag interlocked look to our flooring. Used in interiors or exteriors of our projects, these are the 8-sized patterns that have eight different sizes of natural stones that give an elegant finish to our walkways, kitchen floorings, pool areas, and covers specific interiors as well.

9.  COBBLESTONES

Granite Cobbles is one of the premium products of SUI that is used to make your gardens and pathways look beautiful. Bringing an uncanny grace to your landscaping it is a hard-wearing product that is available in a variety of colors.

10. PEBBLES

Larger than granules and smaller than Cobbles, that is how we identify pebbles as. They are basically small round smooth stone which is found near or in the water. Quintessentially used as a decorative stone, pebbles have been used both indoors as well as outdoors when it comes to gracing the desolate areas of your surroundings. Beautifying the water-streams, gardens, walkways, or giving grace to your indoors like using them in the Offices is something that Pebbles works for.

11. THIN VENEER

These are the Wall cladders. This is also a product that is trending because of its characteristics of bringing beauty to your barren walls. You apply this quarried product and you are sorted with your blank or dull walls. These are formed by cutting the natural stone into a particular thickness that looks apt for the decorations. It is a sensitive product but gives strong elegance to the surroundings.

12. WINDOW SILLS

Again a decorative stone cladding idea that gives a dimension to the edges of Windows and protects them from water logging damages. Whether a room window or kitchen ventilation, it is a suitable idea for both and all places.

So Natural Stones are not only about the Floors or walls, it is a stone that has no definition attached to them when it comes to bringing beauty to the backdrop. A part from the above mentioned, there are various other natural stone products that can bring a unique charm to the construction project.

The post NATURAL STONE PRODUCTS – TODAY’S EMERGING DEMAND first appeared on Natural Stone Supplier | Landscape Supply | CA | TX | WA | MD | USA.

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT NATURAL STONE TYPE?

Whether you’re a first time buyer or you are building your house from scratch, it’s absolutely necessary to select the right stone for your project, and to do that you will need to study stones to the very depth. You need to know what type of stone is suitable and where and how to place it and also how to eventually take care of the application so it gives you better results in the future. The stronger the foundations are, the better the results will be. Stone Universe brings to you various options in Natural Stones:

THIN VENEER – ONE OF THE BEST CLADDING CHOICE

Natural Stone Veneer can be used for both indoors and outdoors. It functions as protective layering and beautifully adds to the aesthetics. Great way of adding texture and a touch of color to an otherwise bland home décor. At Stone Universe, Natural Stone Veneer comes in wide range of colors in different form of flats and corners to cover both the front surface of the wall as well as the corners.

FLAGSTONE – A NATURAL PAVING STONE

Flagstone provides sturdy & durable natural stone material with non-slip surface, therefore great choice for external applications. For landscape decoration, the flagstone paver will create a hand-made feel to your yard that looks timeless.

TREADS

The front few steps give us the first tactile experience of a building as steps grab everyone’s attention, either it’s indoor or outdoor. If used creatively and wisely Natural Stone adds subtle transition from landscape to home-scape, and one elevation to next in odd terrains of your garden.

SLAB

Natural stone slabs are widely used as kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity tops and outdoor BBQs. Natural stone slabs comes with gorgeous grains, veins and shades on a single piece that’s adds to the aesthetic appeal of area concerned.

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR FIRST TIME BUYERS

When choosing natural stone we often put the aesthetics first. However, considering your needs and how the stone performs first will lead to a superior outcome. We would like to share few considerations you should keep in mind while selecting the right natural stone for your home.

LOCATION AND WEATHER

Primary task while selecting natural stone for your home is where you plan to install it. We need to choose stones that responds well to the climate and context. So selecting the right stone for your walls and floors will not only help you stay comfortable, but it will also help you lower your energy costs at home.

DETERMINE YOUR COLOR PALETTE

Further, determine the color palette that will suit the interior or exterior of your home. For example, darker rooms will give warm and cozy feeling, whereas lighter rooms will feel larger and cooler. And for outdoors, if area gets direct sunlight, a light range stone color is recommended as it will not generate too much glare or absorb too much heat.

DETERMINE THE PATTERN & FINISH

The distinctive veining pattern contributes to the unique character of different natural stones. The naturally appearing pattern on each stone reflects enthralling effects including rustic, earthy, casual, sophisticated and warm among many others.
Another great contributor to appearance is surface finish of a stone. Different stones have different finish- for example:

Limestone– It’s a soft stone but it is ideal if you want to achieve a unique look, due to the fact that it is largely made up of materials such as corals and shells. It is incredibly classic and is available in light, earthy colors.

Sandstone – It’s a rough, textured stone that is made up largely of grains of sand. It provides an attractive surface for flooring and it is available in many different colors and patterns.

Travertine – It’s just like marble but it has a textured surface rather than a highly polished one, due to the natural cavities found in the stone. Either you can choose to fill those cavities to give the travertine a polished appearance or leave it natural.

COST INVOLVED

Rate varies extensively, and it is not always desirable to look for the most affordable products. Lifespan sandstone’s utility have to be taken into account. So preferring quality material that will serve you well for a long time will be cost-efficient.

Finally, for all the creative people out there who are cautious about aesthetics, Stone Universe can help you find value and maximize your project’s budget.

The post HOMEOWNERS GUIDE: HOW TO CHOOSE NATURAL STONES? first appeared on Natural Stone Supplier | Landscape Supply | CA | TX | WA | MD | USA.

Just imagine! After a hard day’s work, you picture yourself relaxing and chilling with your friends, family or perhaps even spend a romantic evening with your spouse under the stars.  What better place there will be than your own and you do not have to have the best hardscape ideas to have a very beautiful outdoor space to enjoy. To help in making your outdoor living area the sweet spot of the neighborhood it’s eminent to find the right product and the right person who can install a custom inlay or unique pattern.

The demand for Natural Stone inspired patio style has grown significantly over the years. New, more saturated colors can create vivid contrasts and the usage of stunning patterns and metamorphic textures give a new life to your patio. At Stone Universe Inc., your search for the perfect materials to build your dream patio comes to an end. Our array of stone collection gives you unending ideas to create your dream space

CREATE YOUR DREAM PATIO WITH NATURAL STONE

Choosing the right material –

Whether you want to choose your own stone or have your contractor do it for you, it is quite important to be involved fully and get properly educated about the right material usage. You should always try to choose a material that fits the style of your home and our ashlar patterns and flagstones are among the most popular that can fit your taste perfectly and give your home the desired classy look while becoming the talk of your neighborhood.

You might want to consider our natural stone collection below –

• The Ashlar Patterns – Different sized patterned pavers entwine together to create a magical layout that stands apart and give your patio a new zing.
•  The flagstones – These natural stone beauties come in their own unique shape that fashions an old-world charm to you outdoor sitting area and will leave your guests mesmerized.

• Cobblestones – Let’s not just leave these beautiful stones for the driveway and bring them in your outdoor seating that will leave your guests awestruck.
• Pavers – We should not sideline our regular natural stone but use them in a way that is unique and retain the strength of their attributes.
• Versailles Pattern – A combination of four different sizes of dimensional pavers arranged to form a pattern which stands out from other patterns due to the unique way of arrangement of each individual paver. These are also known as French patterns that will give your patio that chic Parisian cinematic feel.

Add value to your home

Your investment on revamping your patio will add to the value of your home by manifolds. According to a recent study, for every dollar you spend on landscaping, your home will see a remarkable increase in its value. So, it is important to invest in the right idea and eventually leading to your home getting sold in no time. Natural Stone usage anywhere in your house, be it indoors or outdoors in anyway helps the property stand out to a prospective buyer.

So basically, whatever natural stone you select for your project, it’s going to add appeal to your home and provide lasting beauty and functionality to your outdoors.

The post PATIOS – BEST NATURAL STONE IDEAS first appeared on Natural Stone Supplier | Landscape Supply | CA | TX | WA | MD | USA.

To make your decision-making process easy, here comes some of the top design tips that can help you in designing or redesigning your backyard, front yard, garden, lawn, patio, or other outdoor areas.

DESIGN STYLE #1

Have a look at this beautiful yard design. It looks well managed and presentable. All thanks to the natural stone. The wide range of natural stone products open various design rooms for the architects to showcase their creativity. Here, stone treads are installed to cover the boundary walls and centralized fire pit top. While walls are all covered with the ledgestone panel and corner. The soft and charming shade of ledgestone and tread goes well with the evening mood.

DESIGN STYLE #2

Look at this small yet attractive backyard design style with natural stone. This seems to be the best fit for those who are looking for a quick yard makeover. All you need to do is the installation of natural stone paver flooring. The stone flooring of soothing grey color captures everyone’s attention. The best part is how beautifully varied sizes of stone pavers are used to lay a pattern on the floor. This adds a magnificent charm to the outdoors.

DESIGN STYLE #3

Are you planning to create a comfortable lounge where you can spend time while enjoying the beauty of nature? If so, then nothing could be better than yard construction. Whether big or small, the patio not only enhances the space of living but also adds a lot to the property’s value. Here, a trio of autumn mist paver, ledgestone, and tread all together create a wow appeal. Deep rich tan and brown variants flourish the most with fossils leave impression on the sandstone.

DESIGN STYLE #4

When it comes to designing a narrow passage, nothing can look better than natural stepping stones. These are meant to flaunt the garden passage areas with grace and beauty. In the above-shown design idea, multi classic square shape stepping stones are installed. Square shape stone steppers help in bringing asymmetrical appeal all around. This minimal effort brings a great change in the garden design idea.

DESIGN STYLE #5

Because of the high compressive strength and durability rate, natural stones also become popular for commercial constructions. Granite cobblestones are widely used for laying the streets, parking lots, etc. Have a look at these 8″x4″x2″± gold granite cobblestones installed beautifully on the commercial surface. One can bring this design idea to the life by contacting the nearest natural stone supplier.

DESIGN STYLE #6

Cobblestones are equally popular for residential constructions as well. Another look of granite cobblestones used to make the entryway attractive. Here, black cobblestones are installed all around to create a finite look. Be it an outdoor floor or a centralized planter box, everything is covered nicely with the natural cobblestones. You can choose this design idea if you are planning to revamp the front entrance.

DESIGN STYLE #7

Natural flagstones are considered one of the best stone products for walkways, pathways, and sidewalks. The soft to mellow brown floor stone keep the whole scenery in coordination with the existing components. Think of the elements that can be added to make the space feel more classy and appealing. Make use of green elements on the walkway surrounds like already used in the image. Colorful floral arrangements can make the way more pleasing.

DESIGN STYLE #8

Look at the beauty of this space. If you are a peace lover, then you will surely be going to fall in love with this design idea. The simple approach opted by the architects to design this patio speaks about the beauty of the place. Bold black pavers installed with tumble finish and greenery all around are the two core eye-catchy elements of this design scheme.

DESIGN STYLE #9

Why leave the windows alone when you can beautify them with the grace of nature. Get inspired with this design idea and bring it to life. A natural stone window sill showcasing tan brown variants creates wow appeal. Besides, it is a durable option to protect windows from rainwater damage. Combine it well with the contrasting thin veneer wall stone for a great impact.

DESIGN STYLE #10

Take a look at this inspiring design idea for small spaces. Even if you have a small space in the outdoors, style it beautifully by getting inspiration from this design style. Stone column cap and wall cap is used here to cover the pillar and boundary wall respectively. Do you want to make this look the best? The choice of contrasting color. Variants of black and grey all around develop a bold appeal even in the limited space.

Apart from the above-mentioned top ten design ideas, the leading natural stone suppliers have a lot more to show. Get inspired with the collection of our photo ga

The post 10 DESIGN STYLES: NATURAL STONE FOR OUTDOOR RENOVATION first appeared on Natural Stone Supplier | Landscape Supply | CA | TX | WA | MD | USA.

The in-ground swimming pool becomes an integral part of the modern building design. Are you the one who is planning to impart a mesmerizing pool in the outdoor oasis to beat the heat this season?

If yes, then do consider the ins and outs of the material in which you are going to make a heavy investment. Have you asked yourself what is good for your next swimming pool renovation project? Well, there are the certain rule of thumb that one should consider to have a perfect pool surrounds.

Have a look at the facts to make the right choice for swimming pool renovation:

DECISION ON POOL EDGE PROFILE

The outlook of the pool greatly depends upon the edge profile you choose. It gives a sleek finish and a defined look to the overall area. The edge profile you choose should be safe enough for the regular dive. Stone Universe Inc – the stone pool coping supplier in the USA carries eased edge coping and bullnose pool coping.

Eased Edge Coping: If you are planning to give a straight and simple look to the in-ground swimming pool, then natural eased edge coping is one of the best ways to achieve the desired look. Straight doesn’t mean sharp or harsh. Perfectly finished natural eased edge coping gives you safety against cuts and marks. 14”x24” eased edge profile with the best-suited color highly complements the design style.

Bullnose Pool Coping: Bullnose pool coping is slightly curve in the shape to present a smooth finish. 1 long-side bullnose edge profile makes your every dive comfortable. A semi-circular finish imparts a nice traditional touch to the pool surrounds which can elevate any design style.

POOL DECK FLOORING SHOULD BE ANTY-SLIPPERY

The next and most important thing is to choose the right type of flooring material. Now the question arises, which flooring is right for the pool deck? The floor which allows high gripping and comfortable walk is the wisest choice. Opt for natural stone flooring to fulfill this purpose. Either natural stone pavers or flagstone, both serve the same purpose. The Slip-resistance property of natural stone flooring makes it an ideal choice for paving swimming pool decks.

COLOR OF THE DECK PAVERS

Color in the landscaping design can make or break the entire visual appeal. Color choice of pool paving stone acts as a true image reflector. It defines your taste and personality. Deck pavers must contrast with the existing elements to present harmony. Stone Universe Inc carries a wide assortment of pool paver colors that can give an instant lift. From mellow to dark, stone pool pavers are availed in every shade. It is merely one’s own choice as per the design idea.

The post HOW TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR SWIMMING POOL RENOVATION? first appeared on Natural Stone Supplier | Landscape Supply | CA | TX | WA | MD | USA.

Are you about to revamp your home or looking to hire a contractor for a new construction project?

Don’t forget to pay special attention to the flooring material. After all, it acts as a trademark of the property.

When there is a need for the perfect paving material, natural stone comes into the picture. Unlike concrete or brick pavers, natural stones are famous for their physical, chemical, and general properties. As the stones cut from quarries present in the various origins of the world, there is a little variation in size, color, and texture. This inclusion and variations often add a lot to the beauty of the stone.

“Pave your surface covering with the vast array of an option presented by Stone Universe Inc.”

WHY CHOOSE NATURAL PAVING STONE?

No doubt, there is an immense variety of paving options available in the stone market. Now, how would one choose the best material among all? There are specific features that can guide you best:

• Compressive Strength: 

To lay a perfect covering, the stone must have high compressive strength. It refers to the quantum of load that can bear by a building stone. Compressive strength measured under standard ASTM C170. Most of the colors of SUI natural stone have high compressive strength.

• Bending Strength: 

Besides compressive, the bending strength of the stone is equally essential. Bending strength is opposite to compressive strength. It should always be low. In other words, it depicts the hard-wearing nature of paving stone. Natural stone is the one that complies with the standard ASTM C99 and ASTM C880 to examine the modulus of rupture and flexural strength.

• Slip-resistant: 

The primary concern while choosing flooring material is its texture. The paver must give a high gripping and safe walk. Thus, the natural paving stone is always recommended to pave kitchen, bathroom, pool decks, and other allied areas. Natural stone flooring is anti-slippery and prevents accidents to a great extent.

• Green Attribute: 

Being a responsible citizen, you must choose such material for your place that extracts and fabricates keeping in view the environmental protection and ethics of the building construction. Nature’s stone carries the feature of the green attribute as its fabrication process is water-based.

• Durability: 

Changing floor covering regularly is a tedious task. So, it’s better to choose the best suitable stone for the place that is highly durable and lasts longer. Old monuments and buildings made from nature’s rock are proof of their durability.

• Natural Hues & Variations: 

The grace of a paving stone merely depends upon the type of color and variations that it shows. In case of natural stone, its inclusion and variety is the inseparable part of its natural beauty. Thus, to provide the eye-catchy appeal to the place, the natural paving stone is the best option.

Stone Universe Inc – the wholesale supplier of natural stone in the U.S.A offers loose pavers, paver patterns, driveway pavers, flagstone, cobblestones, tile, and tile patterns in the range of flooring. All these stones are perfect for paving surfaces such as kitchen, bathroom, walkways, patio, sidewalks, driveways, etc.

The post A BUYER’S GUIDE TO NATURAL STONE FLOORING first appeared on Natural Stone Supplier | Landscape Supply | CA | TX | WA | MD | USA.