Natural Stone vs Manufactured Stone for Paver Patios

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By Ohio Beauty Cut Stone

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Published June 20, 2023

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In Beautiful Stone Advice

You are finally starting that patio project at your home and the first major decision has you guessing – what is the best material for the pavers?

What in comes to laying a patio, builders have many options today in natural stone and manufactured stone, and both have advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right one for you depends on the look you want, how you intend to use your space, and how much time you will have to devote to maintenance.

Natural stone pavers

Cut from quarries and machined to the proper size and shape, natural stone pavers are eco-friendly and one-of-a-kind. Colors are often earthy browns and golds but having developed in nature, your look will be completely unique and unpredictable.

Natural stone is easy to cut and durable, with a density that holds up well through whatever Mother Nature dishes out. The natural coloring also wears well, with minimal fading over many years of exposure to sun and heat. Attention to cleaning and maintenance keeps your natural stone pavers looking their best. Acidic spills should be cleaned up promptly to avoid stains and cleaners used should be gentle with no abrasive materials.

Manufactured stone pavers

Homeowners often choose manufactured stone for patios and walkways to get a specific color and look. Because these stones are generated through a manufacturing process, your pavers will feel and look exactly like natural stone, but instead of the random colors, shades, and lines that occur in real stone, you will get a consistent color pattern that gives you total control over your design.

A bit more care must be taken if cutting is necessary to avoid exposing the aggregate edge of manufactured stone, but installation is generally easy, especially because of the light weight of these materials. Manufactured stone is typically easy to maintain with a simple wash to remove debris.

Longevity is a little less with artificial stone compared to natural stone and color will tend to fade over time, especially where the pavers are heavily exposed to heat and sunlight.

Plan your paver patio in Akron OH

At Ohio Beauty Cut Stone, our experts can help you choose the right material for your patio, pool deck, or walkway. Consider the following when choosing a natural stone or manufactured stone paver for your project.

If the look you want depends on having a specific color and/or design for your pavers, then manufactured stone is for you.
For an authentic feel or a patio or deck that is unique in color and lines, use natural stone.
If your project calls for veneers or applications that need lightweight material, manufactured stone is best.
Use natural stone where excessive sun exposure could cause premature fading in manufactured materials.

Stone choices from Ohio Beauty include a full variety of natural and artificial options. From natural looking flint and sandstone to rustic travertine to lightweight veneers that mimic stone and brick, we have what you need. Call today!