Patio stones is a broad catch-all term that covers many types of outdoor building materials. Popular patio stones include flagstone and natural rock, brick, and concrete pavers, each offering its own aesthetic, installation considerations, and ideal applications.
Below is a clear breakdown of the pros, cons, and best locations for each material so you can choose the right option for your next patio, walkway, or driveway project.
Flagstone & Other Natural Stone
Flagstone and natural stone provide a timeless, organic look that blends seamlessly with outdoor landscapes. Because they’re sourced from the earth, they offer natural variation and unmatched weathering durability. When installed properly, natural stone can last for decades with minimal upkeep.
Pros
- Local stone often costs less and is more environmentally friendly due to lower shipping emissions
- Excellent durability once properly installed
- Requires little to no ongoing maintenance
Cons
- Shipping from store to home can increase overall project cost
- Installation is highly labour-intensive
Best Locations
- Around pools
- Accents along a driveway
- Walkways up to your door
- Porches
Brick
Clay bricks offer a classic, old-world aesthetic that remains popular for patios and walkways. The material’s texture and natural porosity create a comfortable, low-slip surface ideal for high-traffic areas.
Pros
- Provides a charming, traditional look
- Porous surface offers low-slip performance, great for walking
Cons
- Bricks can shift over time
- Shifting may create trip hazards
- Can make snow shoveling more difficult
Best Locations
- Patios
- Paths in and around a garden
- Deck or fountain surrounds
- Driveways
- The deck of your pool
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are engineered for strength, stability, and versatility. Their interlocking shapes improve performance, helping them resist movement while offering a wide range of styles and finishes.
Pros
- Interlocking design reduces shifting compared to traditional brick
- Easy to repair—lift and replace individual pavers as needed
- Less prone to cracking than a solid concrete slab
Cons
- Installation can be labour-intensive
- Requires careful base preparation for best results
Best Locations
- Patios
- Around a pool
- Paths in and around a garden
- Driveways
- The area around your pool
A Word on Calculating the Materials You’ll Need to Buy
Before choosing the right patio stones, it’s important to understand how much material your project will require.
Start by measuring the total square footage of your patio, walkway, or driveway. Once you have those dimensions, factor in the base layers—typically 8–12 inches of compacted base material plus a one-inch setting bed. Always add an additional 5–10% of stone or pavers to account for cuts, breakage, and design adjustments.
Calculating accurately not only prevents delays but also ensures your finished surface remains stable, even, and long-lasting. Try our calculator to make the process even easier!
Visit Grand River Natural Stone for Expert Buying Guidance
This has been a basic look at the building materials available. The options for patio stones to build your deck or walkway are nearly endless.
If you’re ready to move forward on your project, our team can help you compare materials, plan your layout, and source everything you need for a long-lasting build. We proudly serve homeowners, contractors, and landscapers across:
- Kitchener – Contact us here
- Stoney Creek – Contact us here
- London – Contact us here
- Fergus – Contact us here
Your perfect patio, walkway, or driveway starts with the right stone. Request a Quote today.
