Innovations in Lifting and Setting Heavy Natural Stone in Hardscape Projects
Natural stone is one of the most beautiful and durable materials used in hardscape construction. Whether you’re installing stone slabs for a patio, large steps for a landscape feature, or heavy coping stones for retaining walls, the weight and irregular shapes of natural stone can present serious challenges on the job site. Fortunately, recent innovations in lifting and installation technology are transforming how contractors handle heavy stone, increasing safety, efficiency, and precision.
In this article, we’ll explore the top tools, equipment, and techniques that make lifting, moving, and setting heavy natural stone easier and smarter than ever before.
The Challenge of Handling Heavy Natural Stone
Trim products in hardscaping refer to finishing elements that define edges, create transitions, or provide acStone materials like granite, limestone, bluestone, and basalt can weigh hundreds of pounds per piece. Handling them manually is not only inefficient—it poses significant risks of injury and material damage. Traditional methods such as pry bars, straps, and brute force labor are still used, but the industry has evolved.
Common Problems When Moving Stone:
Back and joint injuries
Chipped or broken stone edges
Uneven placement or settling
Time-consuming setups
To address these issues, the hardscape industry has turned to specialized stone handling equipment and lifting technology.
Top Tools and Technologies for Lifting and Setting Heavy Stone
While coping is often associated with pool edges, it plays a far broader role in landscape architecture. Natural stone coping can be used to cap retaining walls, edge raised patios, border garden beds, and finish stair treads. Wherever there’s a vertical edge or a transition between materials, coping brings both protection and polish.
1. Vacuum Lifting Systems
Vacuum lifters have become a game-changer in hardscaping. These systems use suction to securely grip the surface of the stone, allowing workers to lift and set large slabs or steps with minimal physical strain.
Benefits of Vacuum Lifters:
Safe and secure grip on smooth or textured stone surfaces
Reduce labor needs—one operator can often do the work of two or three
Precision placement for alignment and leveling
Battery-powered or hydraulic options for on-site flexibility
Popular brands include Pave Tech’s Quick-E-Vac, Kenco’s Stone Lift, and Probst SM vacuum lifters, all designed to lift slabs, coping, or large stone treads.ne wall, or transitioning between outdoor zones, coping is the element that brings structure and style.
2. Stone Lifters and Grabs (Mechanical Clamps)
Mechanical stone clamps or slab lifters are ideal for rough or irregularly shaped natural stones. These tools grip stone with adjustable pressure and are commonly used with skid steers, mini-excavators, or cranes.
Common Uses:
Moving step treads, retaining wall blocks, or irregular boulders
Handling landscape stone without surface damage
Working with materials that vacuum systems can’t lift due to porosity or rough texture
Clamps such as the Probst Stone Grab, Kenco Rocklift, and Vacuworx PHD system are industry favorites.
3. Dollies, Carts, and Slab Movers
For smaller or mid-sized stones, heavy-duty slab carts and multi-surface dollies offer ergonomic and time-saving solutions. These tools reduce the strain of transporting stone across job sites, especially in areas where heavy machinery can’t be used.
Features to Look For:
Pneumatic or foam-filled tires for rough terrain
Tilting platforms for easier stone unloading
Load capacities ranging from 300 to 1,000+ lbs
Brands like Bon Tool, Pave Tool Innovators, and OX Tools offer specialized stone transport gear for pavers, slabs, and blocks.
4. Skid Steers and Compact Track Loaders with Specialty Attachments
Modern skid steers and compact loaders can be outfitted with specialty stone lifting attachments, including vacuum pads, hydraulic clamps, and adjustable forks, making them one of the most versatile tools on site.
Advantages:
Power and stability for large stone movement
Compatibility with multiple lifting systems
Maneuverability in tight or uneven outdoor spaces
This technology allows for precise placement of coping stones, steps, and caps without risking injury or material damage.
5. Setting and Leveling Tools for Accuracy
Once heavy stone is in place, precision setting tools help ensure the final position is level, secure, and visually aligned.
Examples Include:
Quick-E-Laser for accurate height setting
Leveling bars and paver aligners
Vibrating plate compactors with rubber pads for gentle adjustment
Investing in setting tools can drastically improve the finish quality and durability of natural stone hardscapes.
Smart Practices for Handling Heavy Natural Stone
Beyond equipment, using smart practices can further streamline your project:
Pre-plan stone placement to reduce unnecessary handling
Use protective pads or shims to prevent chipping
Train your crew on proper lifting techniques and tool operation
Choose the right tool for the stone’s shape, weight, and surface type
Final Thoughts: Work Smarter, Not Harder
As natural stone continues to grow in popularity for patios, walkways, outdoor kitchens, and retaining walls, the demand for efficient stone handling solutions grows with it. Embracing modern lifting tools like vacuum systems, mechanical grabs, and specialty carts not only protects your crew—it increases job site productivity and delivers better project outcomes.
Whether you’re a contractor, mason, or landscape designer, using the right technology to lift, move, and set heavy stone is no longer a luxury—it’s essential for safety, quality, and staying competitive in today’s market.
Why Trim Products Are Essential In Natural Stone Hardscape Projects
When designing a natural stone hardscape—whether it’s a backyard patio, garden walkway, outdoor steps, or retaining wall—attention to detail is what elevates a good project into a great one. Among the most critical details are trim products like natural stone coping, steps, and steppers. These components not only enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space but also improve functionality, safety, and long-term durability.
In this article, we’ll explore the importance of trim products in hardscape design and why investing in quality stone coping, steps, and steppers is a smart choice for any residential or commercial landscape.
What Are Trim Products in Hardscaping?
Trim products in hardscaping refer to finishing elements that define edges, create transitions, or provide access across changes in elevation. These include:
Natural Stone Coping
Stone Steps
Steppers and Garden Path Stones
Wall Caps and Edging Stones
Often fabricated or cut to complement the main surface material (like flagstone or pavers), trim products provide both visual cohesion and functional integrity.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes Blue Mist/GraniteAura™ Natural Landscapes Silver/Travertine
The Role of Natural Stone Coping in Hardscape Design
While coping is often associated with pool edges, it plays a far broader role in landscape architecture. Natural stone coping can be used to cap retaining walls, edge raised patios, border garden beds, and finish stair treads. Wherever there’s a vertical edge or a transition between materials, coping brings both protection and polish.
Key Benefits of Stone Coping:
Edge Protection: Helps prevent erosion or chipping along exposed edges of patios, walls, or raised surfaces.
Water Management: Directs water runoff away from structures, reducing the risk of damage or staining.
Safety and Comfort: Rounded or bullnose coping can make steps and wall edges safer to navigate and more comfortable to sit on.
Aesthetic Continuity: Coping provides a clean, finished look that frames outdoor spaces and ties design elements together.
Whether you’re edging a sunken patio, topping a stone wall, or transitioning between outdoor zones, coping is the element that brings structure and style.
Aura™Natural Landscapes – Blue Mist/Irregular Pattern
Enhancing Accessibility and Elevation with Natural Stone Steps
Natural stone steps are more than just functional—they’re an architectural feature that defines movement and flow within your landscape. From hillside gardens to split-level patios, stone steps offer a durable and attractive way to manage grade changes.
Why Choose Stone Steps?
Blended Transitions: Stone steps can be integrated seamlessly into patios, walkways, or retaining walls, making them feel like a natural part of the landscape.
Durability: Stone resists wear from foot traffic, weather, and time far better than many manufactured alternatives.
Custom Design Options: Choose from straight or curved designs, various thicknesses, and a wide range of stone types to match your vision.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Walnut/Travertine
Creating Functional Flow with Natural Stone Steppers
Stone steppers—flat stones placed in a series to create informal paths—are a subtle yet powerful tool in landscape design. They guide movement through lawns, gardens, and gravel areas while preserving a natural, relaxed feel.
Benefits of Using Steppers:
Preserve Green Space: Steppers reduce wear on lawns and planting beds by providing a designated walking route.
Add Texture and Interest: Available in irregular or uniform shapes, steppers add visual rhythm and organic character to outdoor environments.
Flexible Layouts: Easily installed with varying spacing to accommodate different stride lengths or path widths.
Steppers are especially effective in transitional areas like the route from a patio to a garden, around the side of a house, or across a landscaped yard.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Silver Ridge/Granite
Why Trim Products Matter in Hardscaping
Every great outdoor design has a strong foundation—and a strong finish. That’s where trim products come in. Whether it’s coping that defines an edge, steps that connect elevations, or steppers that invite exploration, these elements:
Elevate Aesthetics: Professional detailing creates a polished, high-end look.
Improve Safety: Non-slip finishes and thoughtful transitions reduce hazards.
Support Structure: Trim pieces help prevent cracking, edge failures, and erosion.
Add Cohesion: Consistent materials and finishes bring unity to different parts of your landscape.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Misty Blue/Marble and Blue Mist/Granite
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a hardscape project using natural stone, don’t overlook the value of trim products like coping, steps, and steppers. These features complete your design both visually and functionally. Investing in high-quality trim elements ensures that your landscape will not only look exceptional but also stand the test of time.
Looking to build or renovate a hardscape? Choose a landscape professional or stone supplier who specializes in custom trim products to bring your project to life with expert precision and lasting beauty.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Blue Mist/Granite Irregular Pattern
Enhance Your Backyard Design with Custom Fabricated Natural Stone
When designing a dream backyard, natural stone elements are a game changer. Custom-cut and fabricated stone pieces offer endless possibilities, bringing beauty, durability, and sophistication to your outdoor space. Whether you’re updating your patio, adding a pool, or enhancing your landscaping, natural stone is an ideal choice. Below are some of the best ways to use custom-cut natural stone in your backyard design, along with the many benefits they offer.
Custom Pathways & Walkways
One of the most popular ways to incorporate custom-cut stone into your backyard is through unique pathways and walkways. Whether you use flagstone, granite, or sandstone, custom stone allows you to create one-of-a-kind shapes and patterns that follow the natural flow of your landscape. These tailored paths guide guests through your yard while adding visual interest and sophistication.
Benefit: Customized pathways provide durability, resist wear, and add curb appeal. Tailored designs ensure your paths blend seamlessly with your landscape, making them a standout feature of your backyard.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Blue Mist Granite / Irregular Flagging
Outdoor Fire Pits & Kitchens
Natural stone is perfect for building stunning outdoor fire pits and kitchens. Custom fabrication ensures the stonework complements your overall backyard design. Popular choices include granite, travertine, and slate for their aesthetic appeal and heat resistance. A custom fire pit or outdoor kitchen creates an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings and outdoor entertaining.
Benefit: Custom stone features, like fire pits and kitchens, increase outdoor living space, are heat-resistant, and provide a luxurious and functional focal point for your yard.
Pangaea® Natural Stone – Sierra Ridge / Roman Castlestone
Custom Pool CopingStones
If you have a pool or are planning to add one, custom pool coping stones are a must-have. Pool coping stones are the edge stones that surround your pool, offering both functional and aesthetic value. Custom-cut stone, such as limestone, travertine, or bluestone, is a great choice because it provides a smooth, durable finish that complements the water. Custom pool coping stones can be designed to suit any style, from sleek and modern to rustic and natural.
Benefit: Custom pool coping stones ensure a seamless transition between your pool and the surrounding deck. They’re durable, non-slip, and designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, all while adding a touch of elegance to your pool area.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Blue Mist / Granite Coping
Stone Walls & Retaining Structures
Custom-cut stone walls are ideal for creating privacy, building retaining walls, or adding a decorative touch to your backyard. Whether it’s a dry-laid stone wall or a more intricate, mortar-set design, natural stone offers exceptional strength and beauty. A custom stone wall can be built to fit any size or shape, providing functional and aesthetic benefits to your landscape.
Benefit: Retaining walls made from custom-cut natural stone offer structural support, prevent soil erosion, and create beautiful focal points. These walls are low-maintenance and provide timeless beauty to your outdoor space.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Blue Mist / Granite
Patios & Outdoor Seating Area
Natural stone is a top choice for patios and outdoor seating areas, offering both durability and elegance. Custom-cut stone slabs can be used to design a personalized patio that fits your specific style and dimensions. Stones like bluestone, travertine, and sandstone are popular for their versatility, and they provide a low-maintenance, long-lasting surface for dining, lounging, and entertaining.
Benefit: Custom stone patios add value to your home, extend your living space, and require little upkeep. They are a long-lasting investment that transforms your backyard into a beautiful and functional outdoor oasis.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes: Blue Mist Granite
Conclusion
Incorporating custom-cut and fabricated natural stone elements into your backyard design is a fantastic way to enhance its beauty, functionality, and value. Whether it’s custom pathways, a fire pit, pool coping stones, or retaining walls, the possibilities are endless with natural stone. Custom fabrication allows for a personalized touch, ensuring your backyard design is as unique as you are. Choose natural stone to create an outdoor space that stands the test of time and becomes the perfect spot for relaxation and entertaining.
Aura™ Natural Landscapes – Blue Mist / Granite – Irregular flagging and pool coping
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Installing Natural Stone Pavers for Your Hardscape Project (part two)
Once you’ve selected the perfect natural stone pavers for your hardscape, the next step is choosing the best method to fill the joints between them. Joint fillers not only impact the aesthetics but also affect the stability and maintenance of the pavers. Here are some of the most popular options for filling joints in your natural stone pavers:
Polymeric Sand for Paver Joints
Polymeric sand is a popular choice for filling joints between pavers because of its durability and functionality.
Considerations: One downside is that polymeric sand can leave a fine residue on the surface of the pavers if not carefully cleaned off during installation. In addition, it may need to be reapplied after several years, particularly in high-traffic areas.
How It Works: Polymeric sand is a mixture of fine sand and special binding agents. When activated with water, it hardens and bonds the pavers together, providing a solid joint that resists shifting, erosion, and weed growth.
Benefits: Polymeric sand creates a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution for keeping your pavers securely in place. It also helps reduce the growth of weeds between the joints.
Application of Polymeric SandPolymeric Sand JointsAura™Natural Landscapes: Sandy Point/Granite
Crushed Gravel for Paver Joints
Crushed gravel is an effective, natural option for filling the joints between pavers, especially if you’re aiming for a rustic or informal look.
Considerations: Gravel can shift over time, especially in areas with heavy rainfall or high foot traffic. It may need to be replenished periodically.
How It Works: Crushed gravel, such as pea gravel, is placed into the joints and compacted to form a stable base. This method allows water to drain freely between the pavers while preventing weed growth.
Benefits: Gravel is cost-effective, easy to install, and adds a natural, organic aesthetic to your hardscape. It’s also great for creating a permeable surface that allows rainwater to pass through.
For areas with heavy traffic or specific structural needs, mortar or concrete can provide a permanent solution for filling the joints between pavers.
Considerations: Over time, mortar or concrete may crack if the pavers shift or settle. This method is more permanent, making repairs or replacements more difficult if necessary.ndscape, including plant life and other materials. This ensures a balanced and cohesive design.
How It Works: Mortar or concrete is applied between the pavers, providing a strong, solid bond. This method is ideal for driveways or areas that need to support heavy loads.
Benefits: Mortar and concrete create durable, long-lasting joints that help prevent shifting and weed growth. They also offer a solid surface for high-traffic areas.
For an eco-friendly, visually appealing option, you can fill the joints between pavers with groundcover plants, moss, or low-growing vegetation.
Considerations: Groundcover plants require more maintenance, such as watering, trimming, and occasional replanting. Depending on your climate, some plants may not thrive and could need additional care.
How It Works: Small plants are placed in the gaps between the pavers. As the plants grow, they fill the joints and provide a lush, green look that softens the hardscape.
Benefits: Groundcover plants add beauty and texture to your hardscape, improving its overall appearance. They also contribute to water absorption and help maintain a sustainable, eco-friendly design.
Aura™Natural Landscapes: Italian Bluestone/Sandstone
Gravel or Sand Sweeping for Paver Joints
For a simple, budget-friendly solution, gravel or sand can be swept into the joints between pavers.
How It Works: Fine gravel or sand is poured into the joints and swept into place, filling the gaps between the stones. This method is easy to install and works well for smaller-scale hardscapes.
Benefits: This option is low-cost and easy to maintain. Gravel or sand also provides good drainage and flexibility, allowing for simple replacement when needed.
Considerations: Over time, the gravel or sand can shift, particularly in areas with heavy rainfall or foot traffic. Periodic replenishing may be necessary.
Sand Swept JointsAura™Natural Landscapes: Blue Ice Natural/Sandstone
Conclusion
The best method for filling the joints between your natural stone pavers depends on your design vision, traffic load, and maintenance preferences. Whether you choose polymeric sand for its durability, crushed gravel for its rustic charm, or groundcover plants for their natural beauty, selecting the right joint filler ensures your hardscape will remain stable, attractive, and functional for years to come. Choose a joint filler that complements your chosen pattern and finish to complete your perfect outdoor space.
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Installing Natural Stone Pavers for Your Hardscape Project (part one)
When designing a beautiful and lasting hardscape, selecting the right natural stone pavers is essential to creating an outdoor space that not only looks amazing but also stands the test of time. From patios and walkways to driveways and garden paths, choosing the ideal profile, pattern, color, and finish for your natural stone pavers can transform your space. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choices for your hardscape project.
Choosing the Right Profile
The profile of your natural stone pavers refers to their shape, size, and edge details. Your choice of profile impacts the overall aesthetic of your hardscape project. Here are some of the most popular profile options:
Cobblestone Pavers: Small, round stones that evoke old-world charm and timeless elegance, cobblestones are often used for vintage-style walkways or to create a European-inspired outdoor space.
Rectangular and Square Pavers: These pavers offer clean, modern lines that are perfect for contemporary landscapes. They can be arranged in various patterns, ranging from sleek linear arrangements to more intricate interlocking designs.
Irregular or Flagstone Pavers: Flagstones are large, flat stones with irregular edges, giving them a natural, organic appearance. They are ideal for creating a rustic, freeform look, perfect for informal garden paths or naturalistic outdoor settings.
Aura™Natural Landscapes: Silver Ridge/GraniteAura™Natural Landscapes: Blue Mist/Irregular Flagstone
Selecting the Perfect Pattern
The pattern you choose for your pavers can completely change the visual effect of your hardscape. Here are some of the most popular paver patterns:
Irregular Pattern: The irregular pattern uses stones of various shapes and sizes to create a free-flowing, natural look. Each stone is carefully chosen for its unique shape, fitting together like a puzzle to form an organic, almost random arrangement. Unlike the structured randomness of the random pattern, the irregular pattern intentionally embraces the natural variations in stone, creating a more curated, yet still rustic, design. This pattern is perfect for rustic pathways, garden areas, and informal patios, where a natural, earthy aesthetic is desired.
Running Bond: This traditional pattern features staggered rectangular pavers, providing a neat and uniform look. It’s ideal for creating a classic, structured design in your outdoor space.
Herringbone: Characterized by its distinctive zig-zag pattern, herringbone creates a bold, dynamic effect. It’s particularly suited for high-traffic areas like driveways and walkways.
French Pattern: Also known as the Versailles pattern, the French pattern uses four different sizes of pavers arranged in a repeating geometric design. This pattern offers a luxurious, old-world feel and is perfect for both formal and informal spaces, such as patios or garden paths.
The color of your natural stone pavers plays a significant role in complementing the surroundings and enhancing the overall look of your hardscape. Natural stone comes in a variety of hues, from earthy neutrals to bolder tones. Here are some options to consider:
Neutral Tones: Shades like beige, gray, tan, and brown are versatile and work well in most outdoor settings. These colors create a soothing, harmonious environment and blend effortlessly with surrounding landscaping.
Warm Earthy Tones: Rich reds, oranges, and golds add warmth and vibrancy to your hardscape. These colors are ideal for Mediterranean, Southwestern, or rustic-style designs.
Cool Blues and Grays: Slate-gray and blue-toned stones create a sleek, modern look, making them ideal for contemporary outdoor spaces and coastal designs.
When choosing the color for your pavers, consider the surrounding landscape, including plant life and other materials. This ensures a balanced and cohesive design.
Oxford Buff/SandstoneAutumn Brown Natural/SandstoneMisty Blue/Marble
Choosing the Right Finish
The finish on your natural stone pavers affects both their appearance and their functionality. Depending on your aesthetic preferences and the intended use of the space, there are several finishes to choose from:
Natural Finish: A natural finish retains the stone’s inherent texture and rugged surface, which works well in informal landscapes. This finish gives your pavers an organic, earthy appearance, making it ideal for casual, nature-inspired designs.
Thermal Finish: Thermal finishing involves exposing the stone to high heat, which results in a slightly textured surface with a naturally rough appearance. This finish enhances grip, making it ideal for outdoor spaces that require a non-slip surface, such as pool decks or walkways. It also provides a rugged, natural look.
Tumbled Finish: Tumbled pavers have a worn, weathered appearance, giving them a rustic, old-world charm. They are also less slippery, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or poolside.
Blue Ice/Sandstone/Natural FinishAutumn Brown/Sandstone/Thermal Finish
Continue to part 2 to learn more about the best methods and options for filling the joint between your natural stone pavers.
Behind the Beauty: What Really Goes into Proper Hardscape Patio Planning and Preparation
Embarking on a hardscaping project is akin to crafting a masterpiece. It’s not just about laying stones or constructing patios; it’s about sculpting an outdoor oasis that exudes beauty and functionality. To the untrained eye, a nice patio can look deceptively simple – you just pull out the grass, flatten the dirt, and lay the stones on the ground, right?
The reality is, the area where you’ll have pavers installed should be regarded as a construction site. The beautiful layout of stones will be what catches everyone’s eye, but beneath is a foundation that was painstakingly prepared to ensure your surface remains stable for a lifetime.
This is specialized work that requires experience and often heavy equipment and should not be approached as a do-it-yourself project. For property owners getting ready for backyard makeover, the following is an overview of the basic steps of the installation process so you’ll know what to expect.
Planning and Preparation
The first part of the process could be described as a research phase, and you may be able to help. Your contractor will want to learn everything they can about the spot where the stones will be installed. The drainage, soil composition, and existing masonry that needs to be removed or built around can all impact the design. So can mature trees with bulky roots and the natural grade of the yard.
The team will also need to know if there are any underground pipes, cables, tanks, or other features in or close to the construction area. This may require a review of construction records in your local government office. Any knowledge you can share about the property’s condition and history could be useful.
You may also need to make a trip or two to the town hall to take care of permitting paperwork. Regulations can vary widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but beyond the standard construction approvals, it’s possible you may need soil and erosion permits, waivers if your land is on a sensitive waterbody, or zoning board approvals if the project will exceed impervious surface or setback regulations. Consult your contractor and check with your municipal government at the start to make sure you have everything covered.
With all of the needed permits and site information in hand, the masonry team can now finalize its plan to make your vision for a backyard oasis a reality.
Preparing the Base
The “Ultimate Backyard Makeover” episode of Instone’s InBuilding Design video series offers an excellent glimpse at what a typical foundation preparation process looks like. Once the dimensions of the patio or paved area are determined, the contractors will begin clearing soil to make room for a new foundation. The depth will be calculated based on factors like the ground conditions and the desired elevation of the pavers.
In the video above, the crew begins by filling the hole with a layer of large rocks, then covers it with a layer of medium-size gravel and compacts it. They then add a sand-like layer that can fill the gaps between the stones and compact it once more.
The result is a base of material that is strong enough to support heavy pavers without any risk of shifting or crumbling due to freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rains, extreme heat, or other conditions they’ll endure over the years. Natural stone pavers (e.g., granite, sandstone, marble) are significantly less susceptible to these issues than concrete products and can better withstand the pounding of foot traffic. Visit Instone’s Aura Natural Landscapes page to learn about its wide variety of stone types and color options.
If your design includes heavyweight features like an outdoor kitchen and fireplace, the crew will dig further and fill the ground with concrete for support. They may also lay a tarp-like liner called a geotextile beneath the foundation materials to help control drainage, weeds, and erosion.
When the foundation is set, work may need to pause briefly to allow the town to complete an inspection. Contact your local construction office before the project begins or talk to your contractor, who should be familiar with your town’s requirements.
Laying the Pavers
As a homeowner, here’s where the excitement really begins. With every stone that’s laid, you’ll see your dream yard design emerge before your eyes.
This is where the artistry of your masonry team will shine through. While your overall project design will have been worked out well before the first stone is laid, there are many details and decisions that will be sorted out on the ground. Among them are how to arrange the stones, which may come in a variety of shapes and sizes, in beautiful patterns. Another highly popular style right now is irregular flagging, pavers that are not uniform in shape and size. Arranged together, they create attractive mosaics with a rustic appearance.
Aura Blue Mist Irregular Pattern
Aura Silver Ridge Irregular Patio
Aura Silver Ridge Irregular Pattern Patio
Aura Silver Ridge Irregular Pattern Patio
Styling choices and careful measurements will determine how to cut edge pieces in ways that look symmetrical and artful. Sometimes a few custom-cut pieces can make or break a project. In these cases, your team may look to the Instone Fabrication and Design Services crew for help with the cuts and shapes that can only be accomplished with specialized equipment.
With the stones laid, a final step is to fill the joints (gaps) between them with a sand or polymeric sand filler of your color choice. Polymeric sand is a type of material that bonds together after its exposed to water, tightly sealing the spaces to prevent problems like excess rainwater intrusion, weed growth, and ants carrying away the grains. The clip above shows a crew applying polymeric sand to a Mid West patio project.
Learn More
No one knows stone like Instone. Whether you have a large-scale backyard hardscaping project or a small stone veneer accent wall coming up, we have the materials and experience to help.
Precision in Every Cut: A Guide to Handling Manufactured Stone Veneer
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Precision in Every Cut: A Guide to Handling Manufactured Stone Veneer
Aura Natural Landscapes revolutionary new product wows installers and homeowners
This seasons’ most sought-after product for backyard patios bring a rustic, natural look that standard backyard pavers can’t beat. Thanks to consistent cuts, and stone pavers that fit together like pieces of a puzzle, irregular flagging is in high demand. Irregular flagging is showing up in backyard patios, walkways, and poolside hardscaping.
Installers commonly assume that irregular flagging projects take more time and money than standard ones. This is because the stones used have different thicknesses and shapes. However, Aura Natural Landscapes is turning this notion on its head by producing precut, consistent stones. They are 10 times faster to install than other irregular flagging products. .
Irregular flagging, sometimes called irregular pavers, are flat pieces of stone that are not uniform in shape and size. Arranged together, they create attractive mosaics that can call other patterns in nature to mind, like the turtle shell or rocks scattered along a brook. Irregular stones are often also spread apart as stepping stones. They can form a paver walkway on surfaces like grass lawns, gravel paths, or mulch bedding.
Eliminate Joint Pains in Paver Installations
“Irregular flagging is most attractive when masons can work the stone and create consistent joints throughout the whole patio or surface,” Instone’s Vice President of Natural Stone Products Justin Alicandro said. He noted that many irregular flagging applications aren’t completed this way, though, due to the cost of installation. With most products on the market, achieving consistent joints requires the mason to shape each stone so it fits smoothly next to the other irregular shapes. This is a process that can be laborious and lead to waste.
“Just in a 2-foot stretch of one joint, you’ll see some installers go from 3 inches to a half-inch wide,” Alicandro said. “They just shape it quickly and throw it down, even though it looks sloppy.”
Aura’s irregular flagging solves this issue thanks to its signature precut, repeating pattern of seven stones that fit easily together. The eye sees an irregular pattern, but for the installer, it’s a no-hassle job.
Consistent Thickness Reduces Time and Waste
Another challenge with installing the majority of irregular flagging products is their varying thickness. Most are extremely inconsistent in thickness which creates installation issues. This forces the mason to either shape or cut the stone to a routine width in order to lay the pavers. Or, they need to add/remove subbase material beneath every stone to ensure they don’t bulge or dip.
Aura eliminated the need for that work by producing its irregular flagging stones at a consistent 1.5” thickness. Installers can simply screed the sub-base and start laying stones one after another. Installing Aura irregular pavers proceeds at a pace no different than regular pavers.
“With most install jobs, the cost is 70 percent labor and 30 percent material,” Alicandro said. “Because Aura is precut and the thickness is gauged, it saves a tremendous amount of labor.”
Landscape designer Cysilia Schaub chose Aura irregular flagging when she needed hardscaping materials for an extensive lakefront backyard project. The job called for materials that accentuated the property’s natural environment and were durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic and could be delivered and installed on a tight deadline.
“The way this product came – precut, premeasured in each pallet to fit the pattern, the material was gauged, thermaled on the top, the joints were perfect – the installation was really quick,” Schaub said.
Aura’s irregular granite stones range from 4 square feet at their smallest to 12 square feet at their largest. The larger stones can be faster and less complicated to install because they each cover so much ground and are easy arrange. DIY installers should ensure they have proper help to handle the materials, Alicandro advised, as the largest stones can weigh in the 200-pound range.
Versatile for Outdoor Living Designs
Aura has two attractive colors of standard stock irregular stones available for a quick order: Blue Mist and Silver Ridge granite. For projects with lead times greater than about four months, Aura can make just about any other color in its stone catalog available for order, Alicandro said.
The stones can be cut easily with a regular masonry saw to fit them against a house, steps, or other structures. Instone’s in-house fabrication and design service is available to assist with any special cuts needed for your project. Coordinating treads, coping and widestock are also available for a cohesive outdoor space.
Irregular flagging projects have been especially hot in markets like the Midwest and northern New England, where people tend to have larger properties that can showcase the sizable stones. Although they are commonly used in projects 1,000 square feet and larger, Alicandro said it ultimately comes down to the taste and vision of the property owner.
To learn more about the possibilities for a property you own or are working on with irregular pattern products, visit our Aura Natural Landscapes page.
How to Achieve Superhero Status With Clients & Boost Sales
We all know that spring signals the start of a busy season for those in the construction, masonry, and hardscaping fields. Homeowners are eager to kick off their long-awaited renovation projects. This is an excellent time to lay the groundwork for a successful sales year.
Achieving success goes beyond simply providing top-notch materials. It demands a strategic approach that prioritizes quick and efficient service, outstanding product quality, and, most importantly, the satisfaction of your clients.
This guide is designed to arm you with actionable advice to enhance your interactions with customers, ultimately helping you secure more contracts and boost your sales.
Prompt & Accurate Quotes: First Impressions
The first step towards a successful spring should be no surprise: communication is key. Many homeowners will shop around when starting a large home project. Swift, detailed, and professional quotes are essential and do more than provide numbers; they showcase your engagement, dedication, and professionalism.
You can influence their hiring decisions from the start by ensuring your quotes exude clarity, accuracy, and a comprehensive outline of expectations and deliverables. A messy quote can come across as unprofessional and unbothered and be seen as a reflection of your work on the job site.
Toro Stone Calculator
Use tools like the Toro Stone Calculator to help you estimate how much stone and other materials you need for a project. Additionally, Instone dealers can easily log in, create a quote in minutes, save the quote, and send it or print it for the customer, ensuring a professional-looking quote is provided instantly. Of course, you can always reach out to us for swift and detailed quotes as well. A precise quote reflects your professionalism and can be the deciding factor for potential clients.
Advise on Material Choices: Quality Meets Budget
While some homeowners will have researched materials independently, many only know what they want the final product to look like — but not how to achieve it. You can help guide homeowners through a maze of options to find what suits their desired aesthetic best. Your expertise can help them make informed, budget-conscious decisions. This is where you can highlight the value of investing in Instone’s premium materials for lasting satisfaction and peace of mind.
Incorporate Innovative Techniques: Building for the Future
Stone masonry is an ever-evolving art that shifts as innovative new techniques and tools emerge. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of — and to quickly incorporate — industry-leading building techniques, like new moisture management systems, into your work whenever possible.
It is important for you to educate homeowners on the benefits of using these industry-leading systems and solutions in their projects. Understanding these long-term advantages ensures that their investment is not just for the present but a contribution to their home’s future. Plus, it helps build your authority as an industry leader.
instonecoNov 4
Experience the true power of natural stone with @pangaeanaturalstone’s innovative GripSet® Technology.
Increasing the surface area where mortar is applied, GripSet® maximizes the friction between the stone and the vertical substrate, allowing the stone to attach quickly and proficiently. With this exclusive technology, you can experience simplified installation and unparalleled resilience and durability for your stonework.
Discover what sets Pangaea apart and learn about their commitment to innovation and quality with President and CEO Sanjay Nikhanj in our #InBuildingDesign episode. Check the link in our bio to learn more. * * * * * #buildingsupply #curbappeal #exteriordesign #interiordesign #naturalstone #usenaturalstone #homeconstruction #constructionproject #hardscapers #landscapers #buildersofInsta #hardscapebrotherhood #builder #construction #pangaeagripset
Experience the true power of natural stone with @pangaeanaturalstone’s innovative GripSet® Technology.
Increasing the surface area where mortar is applied, GripSet® maximizes the friction between the stone and the vertical substrate, allowing the stone to attach quickly and proficiently. With this exclusive technology, you can experience simplified installation and unparalleled resilience and durability for your stonework.
Discover what sets Pangaea apart and learn about their commitment to innovation and quality with President and CEO Sanjay Nikhanj in our #InBuildingDesign episode. Check the link in our bio to learn more. * * * * * #buildingsupply #curbappeal #exteriordesign #interiordesign #naturalstone #usenaturalstone #homeconstruction #constructionproject #hardscapers #landscapers #buildersofInsta #hardscapebrotherhood #builder #construction #pangaeagripset...
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Promote Upselling Opportunities Wisely: Enhancing Value
Any upselling must be done strategically for the homeowner’s benefit and must align with the homeowner’s budget and expectations. This approach not only improves the outcome but also enhances customer satisfaction.
Here’s how you can apply this strategy effectively:
Offer bundled product options that enhance the overall project—like combining landscape stone with stone veneer for outdoor kitchens or fireplaces. This not only simplifies the purchasing process for your clients, making your shop a one-stop solution but also enhances their space’s aesthetic and functional value.
Instone’s Visualizer
Utilize Visualization Tools: Seeing is Believing
Looking for ways to stand out from the competition? Elevate your proposals by incorporating visualization tools. These innovative tools can transform your quotes from simple documents into engaging visual experiences that better communicate the value and vision of your work. By allowing your clients to see their projects’ potential outcomes, you’re enhancing their understanding and excitement and establishing your commitment to transparency and quality. In a market where first impressions are crucial, leveraging visualization tools can be a game-changer in convincing homeowners to choose your services over others.
Maximize the benefits of this approach with the Instone Visualizer, a powerful tool designed to bring your client’s vision to life right before their eyes. Here’s how you can integrate this tool into your sales strategy:
Interactive Kiosks: Establish interactive kiosks at your business locations where clients can actively engage with the visualizer. This allows them to visualize the impact of different stone and color combinations on sample home exteriors, interiors, and patios, enhancing their decision-making process with an immersive, hands-on experience.
Staff Training: Ensure your staff knows how to guide clients through the visualizer. Well-trained employees can assist clients in exploring a variety of design possibilities, helping them reimagine their spaces from creating feature walls to transforming patios.
Website Integration: Embed a link to the Instone Visualizer on your business website, giving clients the convenience to start their design exploration from home. They can effortlessly modify wall colors, trim and compare different stones to ascertain which aligns best with their aesthetic preferences.
Before and After with the Instone Visualizer Tool
The Instone Visualizer allows clients to use sample homes for their design endeavors and allows them to upload their own photos for unique customizations. This tool simplifies decision-making by providing a realistic preview of the finished project. Clients can share their designs, print reports and even access tutorial videos on how to use advanced editing tools within the visualizer. With these capabilities, designing a home with stone has never been easier or more accessible, making the Instone Visualizer an essential part of your sales and marketing arsenal.
Maintain Clear Communication: Building Trust
Trusting someone to work on or in your home can be a challenge. Reliability and trust are built through clear and consistent communication. One way to do this is to regularly update homeowners with project timelines and delivery times. This demonstrates your commitment to meeting their needs and provides them with a sense of comfort, as they aren’t left wondering about these details.
Understanding the importance of prompt service is why we offer optimal lead times that can be conveniently checked on our website—just enter the quantity for an approximate lead time. This feature allows homeowners and dealers to plan precisely, knowing when to expect their materials.
Our commitment to efficient service delivery is a testament to our dedication to ease and efficiency. Our route truck delivery system is designed to simplify the delivery process, removing any uncertainty by utilizing pre-scheduled weekly lanes that service our dealer network from one of our three distribution centers. It’s a testament to our dedication to ease and efficiency—when you need the product now, we make it easy.
By integrating these logistics details into your communication strategy, you promise reliability and deliver on it. This reinforces trust with your clients, ensuring they feel well-informed and confident in their choice to work with you.
Respect the Workspace: A Reflection of Professionalism
It is essential to remember that your ‘workspace’ is someone else’s home. Keeping this in mind and respecting their personal space will go a long way to making for a happy homeowner.
No matter how good the results are, a disrespectful contractor will likely cost you work in the future, while a well-executed job done by someone respectful can lead to good word of mouth and more jobs.
Aura Blue Ice Natural Sandstone
Document Your Projects: Showcase and Inspire
Visual storytelling is a powerful tool that should not be overlooked. Keep homeowners engaged with your work with pictures. Document the various stages of your projects and use them to enhance your social media and website presence.
The adage “seeing is believing” rings particularly true here; providing tangible examples of your completed work highlights the quality and diversity of your offerings and inspires and attracts potential clients. In today’s digital age, a visually compelling portfolio is indispensable for standing out in a crowded marketplace and fostering trust in your craftsmanship.
Leverage Social Media: Build Your Brand
Social media platforms like Instagram are invaluable because they are indispensable extensions of your professional portfolio. These platforms serve as a vibrant showcase for the photos you capture while documenting your work and the testimonials you garner from satisfied clients. Social media amplifies your visibility and significantly enhances your credibility in the eyes of potential clients. A robust social media presence does more than just display the quality and scope of your projects; it also creates a dynamic platform for attracting new clients and engaging with your community.
By actively sharing updates, progress shots, final reveals, and client testimonials on social media, you effectively broadcast your commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. This ongoing dialogue with followers and the broader community fosters a sense of engagement and belonging, transforming your social media space into a lively forum for exchange and inspiration. Plus, social media offers an easily accessible avenue for prospective clients to discover your work and envision the potential transformation of their own spaces.
Consider creating events like a customer appreciation day or an open house to thank your existing customers and also entice potential clients. Promote these events through your social media channels and feature highlights and updates on your website to showcase your active community involvement and commitment to customer service.
Keeping Your Website Updated: A Digital Storefront for Your Brand
Speaking of your website, remember it’s the digital storefront of your business and is just as crucial as your physical location. It’s the hub where potential clients land to explore what you offer and make decisions. That’s why regularly updating your website with your latest offerings and ensuring that the digital reflection of your brand is current and comprehensive is valuable time spent. This step is vital and often missed, which can be a significant oversight in a digitally-driven market.
By consistently refreshing your website content with the latest product information and updates, you’re not just aiming for more sales; you’re enhancing the value and experience for your clients. This dedication to providing up-to-date and accessible information aligns with client needs and reinforces their decision to choose your services. A well-maintained website, paired with a vibrant social media presence, builds credibility and solidifies your position as a forward-thinking and client-focused leader in your industry.
Looking for assistance to keep your website fresh and your marketing on point? Instone has got you covered. Our dealers have exclusive access to our wide array of resources from web developers to social media experts, ensuring your marketing stays updated and search-friendly.
IG: @brickworkssupplycenter
Dealer event held at Instone’s Alsip location.
Obtain Certifications: The Power of Education
Securing a competitive edge in the construction, masonry, and hardscaping industries is crucial for winning contracts and building a reputable business. One strategy to achieve this is through a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. This commitment to professional growth does more than just elevate your technical capabilities; it signals to prospective clients that you are a forward-thinking contractor who values innovation, safety, and the highest standards of quality.
The certifications and knowledge you acquire become powerful tools in your marketing arsenal, allowing you to confidently articulate the value you bring to every project. Plus, staying on top of the latest industry trends, techniques, and materials ensures that you can offer cutting-edge solutions that resonate with homeowners looking for modern, durable, and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.
Enhancing Your Expertise: Instone’s Educational Resources
Deepen your knowledge of stone masonry by leveraging Instone’s comprehensive suite of educational and training resources. Videos covering state-of-the-art stone veneer techniques, on-site installations, and specialized instructional content are just a click away. Gain valuable insights into our premium natural stone collections, like the Aura Natural Landscape line and Pangaea Natural Stone veneer, and learn to confidently recommend the best solutions to clients. By subscribing to our YouTube channel, you ensure you’re always at the forefront of the industry, ready to deliver excellence to your clients with the best-in-class materials for veneer, hardscaping, and fireplaces.
Spring is all about growth and opportunity. You can achieve sales and build long-term relationships with your clients by providing prompt service, utilizing high-quality materials, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Let this season bring you to new heights of professional excellence and customer delight.
With the Instone Visualizer, you can complete a wall-to-wall virtual home makeover in a matter of minutes. The free online tool allows you to simulate what a home or property would look like after a renovation with any combination of stone products from Instone’s expansive catalog.
Powerful yet simple, the Visualizer offers installers and dealers a way to show clients renderings of projects that can be used to assist with sales, and homeowners a way to browse their options for veneers, pavers and other stone products. Users can upload photos of a job site and redo a wall or patio area with new masonry in a couple of clicks.
Instone Vice President of Natural Stone Products Justin Alicandro said the Visualizer has made the need to assemble stone samples or create mockups for clients obsolete.
“This is so much more efficient than the way we used to do things,” Alicandro said. “Homeowners can come out of a session knowing pretty much what they want, and if they don’t like the products once they see real samples, they can tweak the project again in the Visualizer and try a plan B. The Visualizer is such a great tool.”
Visit the Instone Visualizer Page for More Tips & Techniques To Create The Perfect Rendering.
How It Works
To get started, find or snap a digital photo of your project area and add it to the Visualizer. (If you don’t have an image available, you can browse our samples for one that resembles your property.) Photos should be at least 1600 pixels wide and not exceed 16 MB. A standard camera phone pic will do nicely.
With the photo now online, the Visualizer’s AI will scan its features and automatically identify areas most likely for stonework. The technology will also recognize features like windows and doors and omit them. If it misses a wall or ground section you’re interested in, don’t worry – you can draw a polygon to highlight the area manually.
You can then click on any of these areas and choose the interior or exterior Instone masonry product you’d like to see applied there. Once it appears, you can try different brands, profiles, and colors to see how they look, and even change the stone sizes on the fly. The images you create can be saved, shared, and easily edited later.
Fine-Tuning
The Visualizer has multiple editing tools to help fine-tune your renderings and make them more realistic. You can adjust the opacity of the masonry to totally block out the surface beneath it or to allow important features to peak through. Another tool allows you to adjust the perspective, which can realign the stone if it’s not quite level or doesn’t track the angle of the surface accurately.
For the best results, we recommend taking your photos facing straight ahead toward the surfaces that will be clad. If possible, it’s best to move any furniture or other obstructions out of the way.
The Visualizer will even help you simulate the appearance of non-stone upgrades. You can apply paint colors to your banisters and doors or try out new shingle styles and colors on the roof. These features can be combined with the stone improvements to give you a full picture of how all of the materials will look together.
Before and after using the Instone visualizer with Pangaea® 3 Course Ashlar Oxford
Share & Create a Report
The Visualizer offers a range of options for sharing before and after images with clients or anyone else who may be interested in giving feedback. You can quickly export the renderings as JPG and PNG files or use share buttons to email them or post them to Facebook, Twitter/X or Pinterest.
Of high value to masonry professionals, the system can generate attractively formatted reports showing the finished home and thumbnails identifying all of the products featured in the project.
“For a contractor trying to win a job, price is obviously important, but if you can demonstrate for a homeowner what their house is going to look like when it’s complete, that will definitely set you apart from others trying to quote the job,” Instone Chief Operating Officer Rob McKay said. “Ultimately, a lot of people will still want to see a sample and feel it in their hands, but the Visualizer is a great tool to help them narrow down their choices.”
Watch Our Full Tutorial
For a full demonstration of what’s possible with the Visualizer, watch our training video (“Pro Tips for Selling With The Instone Visualizer”) above. You can also check our Visualizer page for FAQs and a series of shorter videos with tips and demos focused on specific Visualizer questions.
Precision in Stone: Navigating Complex Cuts with Instone’s Fabrication and Design Team
The Instone Fabrication and Design Services team turns big ideas into reality. Whether you need a tricky stone cut done for a single stair tread or guidance for a large-scale design-build project with elaborate outdoor amenities, Instone has you covered.
Fabrication and Design Services offers project management solutions including value engineering, estimating, and global sourcing of natural stone materials. Its fabrication pros can provide any stone cut or finish needed to complete a project or achieve your target aesthetic.
“Not everything drawn on paper by a landscape architect is always possible for a mason,” said Design Services Manager Zach Beaulieu. “We take the concept they’re shooting for in their project and help them physically create it.”
Among the highlights of Instone’s state-of-the-art fabrication shop in Plainville, Massachusetts, are:
A Jaguar bridge saw with the capability for profiling (designing unique edge finishes, slopes, etc. with software).
Tools used for edge treatments, bullnose cuts, and leathering stones.
A sandblast room for giving a variety of finishes to stones.
A dust booth where stone fragments produced by grinding are extracted, ensuring safe air quality.
Instone’s fabrication capacity is not limited to this one shop. The company has access to a vast network of partner suppliers, vendors and quarries that serve as an extension of the Plainville facility. If necessary, any of these specialized or larger facilities in the U.S., Canada and abroad can be tapped to handle big jobs faster and cheaper.
Scroll below for a glimpse at some projects which exemplify what the Fabrication and Design Services team can do.
Contemporary Pool
Beaulieu views high-end outdoor residential renovations like this one as the Fabrication and Design Services team’s specialty. “This is an example of a project that was designed to the nines and we really needed to help detail that out for the client,” Beaulieu recalled. Instone cut all the steps, walkways and pool coping to complete the architect’s vision. Instone also assisted with the outdoor fireplace’s Blue Mist granite hearth.
Courtyard
The signature feature of this courtyard, constructed for a private high school in Massachusetts, is its large, semi-circle seating wall. “Anything radial is a challenge to do,” Beaulieu said. “There’s a lot of computer software programs that you need to work with in tandem with a saw. You also need a skilled fabricator to finish the stone accurately.” To achieve a cost savings for the client, Instone had the granite blocks cut and given their thermal finish by a network partner in Canada.
College Campus
Instone supplied all of the veneer to clad these two buildings on the campus of Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts. Fabrication and Design Services also handled the stair treads and radial wall caps, designed for students to rest on between classes. Beaulieu recalls this as a massive project, with 30-40 containers worth of material needed to complete it over the course of a year. Since it takes time to accumulate that much finished stone, Instone had containers delivered as soon they were ready to keep the project moving.
Rooftop Terrace
Fabrication and Design Services handled the stone cuts for this firepit, the focal point of a Boston apartment building’s rooftop hangout. The gray center ring is made of Stanstead granite with a honed finish. Beaulieu said such one-off stone cuts can be complex and expensive, but have the power to make nice projects into special ones.
Learn more about the various places where your outdoor design may need custom fabrication and what’s possible here.
A Cut Above
Visit our Fabrication and Design Services page to view our catalog, meet our team and learn more about how our team can help you accomplish your goals. You can also use our online form to contact our team with questions or get started. Turnaround times for services can vary based on factors like workload, time of year and material needs, but our team will always respond promptly with answers and estimates.
“The goal is always to give the quickest turnaround time for the best price possible,” Beaulieu said.
