Families are enjoying the outdoors like never before. Custom designs for nice backyards, kitchens, and pergolas are becoming commonplace, and for good reason. Blueprints and materials are becoming easier to use than they were ten years ago. No one wants construction crews tearing up a yard for an entire season in an effort to bring a bit of beauty to their favorite area. Stone is an attractive way to offset landscaping, but it can be destructive in the moving process.
Today’s manufactured stone is a way to install the look and durability of stone without bringing in heavy equipment. It is lightweight and can be molded to almost any type of landscape or construction scene. Before you think about the fake plastic replicas that were around just a few years ago, look at the manufactured stone on the market today. Made from Portland cement, real stone elements, various polymers, iron oxide pigments, and water repellents, even experts have trouble telling the difference between stone and real siding. Precise blending and testing have led scientists to create a durable, realistic natural material that performs extremely well in the harsh elements of the outdoors.
There are hundreds of types of stone that can be selected for any project you have in mind. Build a pergola and design a fireplace with a chimney at one end. Cover the exterior fireplace and fireplace walls with manufactured stone that will look like perfect masonry work. A wooden deck can make a stately appearance by building a fireproof box around the grill and extending it to allow for counter space. Line the outer box with carved limestone or granite and it will catch everyone’s eye. Finish off the countertop area with a stone veneered marble top and never worry about weather damage.
All kinds of ideas for treating an outdoor space with natural stone are possible with the lightweight molded pieces available today. Different companies offer a variety of options depending on your needs and some can even be manufactured to your exact specifications. Some manufacturers have designers available to help portray a stone curb appearance that is complementary to your home.
Whether you’re looking for an accent to your home’s exterior, a great backyard entertainment center, or thinking about building some subtle posts around your favorite flower garden, using manufactured stone will add character and depth. The natural appeal of stone is becoming popular due to its ease of construction and affordable cost for everyone. Think about what projects could be started to enhance the look of your home and include manufactured stone in your plans. The difference will be incredible.
