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7 Ways Instone Makes It Easy for Dealers to Succeed

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Instone team

7 Ways Instone Makes It Easy for Dealers to Succeed

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“We Make It Easy” isn’t just our motto, it’s the very foundation that Instone was built on. But we’re going to let you in on a little secret – making it easy for our dealers to get the products they need for their customers faster than other outlets isn’t actually easy. We’ve spent the past 30 years building a nationwide network of warehouses and distribution centers, creating a digital system for faster service, and helping dealers build their businesses.

For the first time, our Chief Operating and Marketing Officer Rob McKay shares the secrets behind Instone’s success in delivering for our dealers – and their customers.

Secret #1. What You Need When You Need It

It all started in the mid-1980s when Instone founder Gordon Strout started buying Cultured Stone and realized how difficult it was to get it from where it was manufactured in California to the East Coast. He designed a truck routing system that’s still in place to this day. 

“The dealers tell us what they want, and we get it to them,” says McKay. “That way, they’re not sitting on inventory, taking up space, and tying up cash. They just buy what they need when they need it,”

The route trucks take the guesswork out of deliveries with pre-scheduled weekly lanes servicing customers from Instone’s distribution centers. Dealers get their product within days, not weeks.

Secret #2. What You See Is What We’ve Got

Every company these days has a website. But it’s what’s on Instone’s website that makes the difference: inventory information.

“We show our inventory availability without having to log in. So, when a sales rep gets a request from a customer, they can look at our website and see what we have in stock. They can order it today and get it tomorrow. It’s super easy,” says McKay.

And an upcoming site update will tell dealers when the next shipment of a particular product is coming in. “If we don’t have enough of something in stock that day, you will know when we will,” he says.

Secret #3. A Digital Organization System

We know that the faster a dealer can get a product, the quicker an entire project can go. That comes down to knowing where the product is in the first place. And that’s why all of Instone’s products are barcoded and entered into a digital system.

“We can put anything anywhere, and the system will tell us where it is,” says McKay. “We can utilize space differently and store more materials and diverse products to serve our customers better.”

Nothing is more annoying than wasting time looking for something, other than not finding it at all. And companies without a robust digital system like Instone’s run the risk of losing track of what they have, where it is, making it impossible to get it to you.

ARTEPISO
Aura Natural Landscape Products by Instone
Aura Natural Landscapes
BEON STONE
Echo Ridge Country Ledgestone Cultured Stone by Boral - Installed on teh front of a beautiful home
CULTURED STONE
Dutch Quality
Dutch Quality
Interloc
ISOKERN FIREPLACES
PANGAEA NATURAL STONE

Secret #4. Offering Way More Than Thin Veneer

As a product fulfillment company, inventory in multiple locations across the service area is key for fast delivery. Instone recently expanded the number of its warehouses by acquiring sites in the Ohio and New England areas to allow for more diversification of products.

“We started as a strictly thin veneer company. Now we’ve become more valuable to our dealers by having a broader offering of products,” says McKay. “And we’re always looking for new products within those product lines and the next big product itself.”

Secret #5. Information At Your Fingertips

Instone is proud to offer support that goes the extra mile to dealers. One of the ways we do that is through the information we include on our website.

“The dealers don’t have to be experts on every product,” says McKay. “They can sit at the counter, have our website up and know everything there is to know about the product. They have all the technical information and what’s in stock.”

We know that if people don’t feel knowledgeable about a product, they can’t sell it. “You can feel comfortable selling our products compared to other products that you’re not as familiar with and shy away from. We’ll make you look like a stud!”

Secret #6. Here to Help You Sell More

We believe customer service isn’t just about getting the dealer what they need; we want to help them build their business. Our competitors have a lot of inventory, but it’s just a pile of goods and that’s it. We’re here to provide any training, education, or support that you need to take your business to the next level.

“We want to help dealers sell the product,” says McKay. “We want to educate them so they can get more business. We want to bring them leads, get them involved and trained. We’re always doing training sessions. Our sales team partners with the manufacturers. We want to ensure everyone who comes in contact with the product is comfortable knowing how to sell it.”

McKay says the next step is teaching the businesses we work with to market themselves. A lot of these businesses have been family-owned for decades, and the dealers are great at what they do. But they’re not marketers. They want to do more, but they don’t know how. We’re here to teach them how to do marketing so they can grow their business.

The Instone Team Having Fun

Secret #7. We’re Not All Business

The Instone team enjoys coming to work because of the environment we’ve created.

“We’re very inclusive, and we treat everyone like a winner,” says McKay, who stresses that we value everyone’s ideas because we’re all part of the team. Even the idea for our brand of beer came from an employee. “That came from one of our customer service reps. He said, ‘Hey man, we should have a beer!” And we made it happen.”

This attitude includes how we interact with dealers and customers.

“We have an openness here, and that makes people relaxed. They can be real. But we’re all working our tails off!” says McKay, who adds the company has a “Work Hard, Play Hard” approach.

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“We like to have fun. We have lunches together, and celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. And we invite customers to sit in with us at meetings and offer feedback. Those relationships are important to us. That’s just who we are.”

Partnering with Instone means having access to all these benefits and more, giving you and your business the tools you need to grow. So why wait? Contact Instone today and see how easy we can make it for you to succeed.

Backyard Makeovers: What You Must Know Before Planning a Backyard Project for Summer

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Backyard Makeovers: What You Must Know Before Planning a Backyard Project for Summer

The Do’s & Don’ts Of Planning a Backyard Makeover

Dreaming of summer already? Even though the weather outside may be too chilly for dining al fresco or a dip in the pool, the winter is actually the perfect time to start planning your backyard makeover projects. We recently interviewed Paul Saladino, owner of Stone Creations of Long Island, who shared his dos and don’ts to make sure that your project goes as smoothly as those summer days you’re day dreaming about while the snow falls. Whether building a pool, patio, fireplace, outdoor kitchen or the full works, Saldino will set you on the right path to completing your build in time for outdoor fun and entertaining with family and friends. 

DO Have Inspiration

Saladino says the first question he always asks his customers is, “what inspired you to do this project?” Is it something you saw on social media, something at a neighbor’s house?” “Years ago, everyone got their ideas from catalogs. Now it’s all social media,” says Saladino. “Once they tell me the idea for what they want, I can start a design and work in the different elements.”

If you don’t have an inspiration yet, there is a wealth of content online, from Pinterest to Instagram, to get ideas for your backyard stone project. You can even check out our very own Pinterest page for some more backyard makeover inspiration.

Still have a creative block and need some help getting started and inspired? Our good friends at Tilly Design can hold your hand through the design process.

DO Build in Phases

Creating a backyard oasis sounds like a dream come true. But it’s a big project and investment. Saladino suggests setting the expectation of doing your backyard amenities in phases. “You don’t want to go and spend a quarter of a million dollars and get yourself deep in debt. Phase it out. Start with a pool, then a patio the following year,” he says.

Check out our Guide to Building a Backyard Oasis for design and material inspiration for for pools, patios and outdoor kitchens to more extravagant pavilions and beyond. 

DO Plan Ahead

Saladino says one of the most frustrating things he experiences as a builder is when a customer comes to him with a request for pool in May, expecting the project to be installed in two weeks. Contractors book jobs far in advance, and summer is their busiest time of year. If you want a pool in time for summer entertaining, the winter is the ideal time to get started planning. “I always say two seasons out. Give yourself six months to get your inspiration together, get the permits, get the contract done, check the liabilities and insurance of the people doing the work, then book them,” he says.

DO Make The Time 

There’s no set amount of time a job will take. It depends on the project’s complexity and also making allowance for bad weather days when the project needs to be paused. Saladino says to expect about two weeks for each phase.

Natural stone pavers and stone veneer are the star of this backyard makeover.

DO Your Research

A must is to check out the company that is doing the work and make sure you get along with them. Check references, check licenses and check insurance. Saladino says to ask to see their paperwork, don’t just take their word for it. “Some guys are like, ‘yeah, yeah I got it,’ real nasty about it when asked for papers. These are not people you want to work with. Tell them you want to see it. Any licensed contractor would be more than happy to show their papers.”

A liability contract is important with coverage of a million or two. Also, make sure every worker on site is covered under the company’s workman’s comp. “You want to know they’re not just picking up workers on the corner,” says Saladino. And check that the state attorney licenses your contractor.

Most importantly, get everything in writing. “You want to have the contract, the warranty and go over every single detail,” Saladino says.

DON’T Go with The Lowest Bid

Backyard makeover build projects can run from affordable to luxurious. The cost depends on the size of the project, the materials you use, the labor, and the job’s complexity. Saladino says whatever you do, don’t try to save money. “You’ll get prices that are on the high end and the low end. Try to stay in the middle. Never go with the lowest bid and try to save money. Those contractors will try to skimp on the materials they use and cut corners. Skip a few dinners, save your money and get it done right,” he advises.

He adds to also plan for a little extra in case something comes up that will increase the cost of the project. “If a contractor gives you an estimate, add 10% just in case. If you don’t spend it, great. “You don’t want to get halfway through a job and run out of money. Put a little extra in the cookie jar.”

DON’T Disappear During the Job

When you have builders doing work on your property, it’s your responsibility to check the work daily and ensure the work is going according to your plan. “Don’t go on vacation with the idea that when you come back, you’ll have a pool,” says Saladino. All the decision makers in the household should also be looking at the job daily to make sure it’s what was agreed upon by all. Revisiting any work will cost you more money, time, and aggravation.  

DON’T Be Afraid To Ask Questions 

Saladino says you shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions before or during a build. “Check progress daily to ensure everything is going as planned. Sometimes they miss things and you’ll want to catch any mistakes right away. Morning meets are often the best time to connect with your contractor. “

Checklist for Homeowners When Planning an Outdoor Project

Get Inspiration 

Pinterest is a wonderful platform to explore for outdoor project inspiration. Search for terms like these to explore boards and starting pinning your favorites……..

  • Patios
  • Outdoor living
  • Stone veneer
  • Pavers  

There are many online sources to help you create a vision or plan for your backyard oasis. Here are a few from Instone: 

  1. 6 Places Your Outdoor Design Needs Stone Fabrication and What’s Possible
  2. Use Aura Natural Stone To Turn An Ordinary Backyward Into An Oasis
  3. Summer is the Perfect Time for a Pizza Party with the ISO’ven

Make sure your backyard makeover ideas and materials are appropriate and available for your area. Instone can assist you and your contractor/builder with locating a dealer in your area. Contact us here. 

Plan Ahead 

  • Start planning your backyard makeover project in winter to break ground in spring/summer.
  • Plan for larger projects in phases and anticipate two weeks for each phase of work.
  • Check that you have the space to accommodate your project(s).
  • Find out what building permits are needed.
  • Review bids and consider the quote that comes in the middle, never go with the lowest bid to save money. 
  • Check out the license and insurance of the company you want to work with.

During The Build

  1. Make sure you have the money to pay in full when the build starts and anticipate that the cost can go up as the project moves along.
  2. Put it on your schedule to be home during construction.
  3. Review the work daily to maintain good communication with your builder and to ensure there are no mistakes that would cost you more money and delay the project.
Download Your Checklist Here!
Backyard makeover that mix and matches natural stone for a wonderful result.

Terms To Know Before Starting A Backyard Makeover

Stone Samples – Ask your local dealer for stone samples to pair with other finishes and colors and to perform your own tests. Place the samples in different areas in the stone installation area to see how it changes in various lighting and with different conditions (i.e. when wet, dry). 

Square Footage – Learn how to calculate the area for your stone project to set realistic estimations and a budget before you meet with your contractor. The calculation at its basics is length multiplied by width, but this can get a little tricky if the space is not perfectly rectangular or square. This means there may be times where you need to get approximate square footages instead. There are other variables as well of where you may need to subtract from the area like if there was going to be a firepit, water feature or flower beds in that area. This work will help save time and effort on everyone’s part. It will also help you to determine if that material you fell in love with is a fit for your project. 

Stone Fabrication – Seeing, understanding and approving of your backyard design before it is sent to a fabrication shop is key to ensuring that your project meets your expectations. You may also learn more about the wide-variety of finishes, edge profiles (split face, eased edge, bevel), and the cuts that can bring your project to life and in line with your vision.

The Instone Team - Here To Help With Backyard Makeovers

When Instone’s Fabrication and Design teams receive a plan (or drawing) set of a full backyard design, takeoff and stone schedule, they then provide an estimate to your local stone distributor. Once the quote is approved, the shop drawing process begins for each stone. It includes the type of stone, dimensions, finish and fabrication work such as edging and placement according to the stone schedule. Instone works closely with local distributors, landscape designers and contractors to ensure the shop drawing is perfectly constructed and accommodates the needs of their projects. 

Technical data – Instone will give your contractor the technical data including the stone’s stocking sizes and country of origin, as well as mechanical properties such as density, water absorption, and rupture compression strength. This information is helpful so you can have a conversation with your contractor when they reference the materials you select for the backyard makeover project. For example, will the stone you use around your pool be slip resistant and suitable for a salt water or chlorine? Will the stone be warm or cool on bare feet? What are the care and maintenance considerations? These are all good questions to ask when sourcing your project materials. 


If you have questions or need assistance sourcing material or a dealer in your area, contact Instone today. Start planning in the winter months for a fun-filled summer in your new outdoor space. 

Guide to the Home’s Hottest Natural Stone Colors for 2023

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Guide to the Home’s Hottest Natural Stone Colors for 2023

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instone

The start of a new year is the ideal time to gather inspiration for those exciting outdoor living spaces and home exterior upgrades. In recent years, homeowners have claimed more outdoor space than ever before, transforming neglected square footage into thriving year-round outdoor spaces for entertaining and dining. Many homeowners also boosted their curb appeal and property value with easy exterior stone siding. But let us not forget those interior updates as well, where stone fireplaces and feature walls can make all the difference in your home’s wow factor. Make a resolution to update your home, inside and out, in 2023 with Instone’s hottest stone colors and styles on the market.

So what’s trending in stone colors and style? To find out, we spoke with Justin Alicandro, Instone’s VP of natural stone products, who shared the most popular stones from the Midwest to the East Coast.

Blues and Grays Dominate

Beautiful blue and gray tones and tints have been extremely popular along the East Coast for years. The demand has almost outpaced the availability, which is why Alicandro brought Aura’s Blue Mist Granite to Instone. It quickly became a best-selling product. The timeless elegance of the bluestone wash mixed with the grainy grays of granite makes this stone pleasing to the eye. The blue tones pair nicely with homes with a cooler color palette. Alicandro says the blue and gray colors will continue to dominate along the East Coast for years to come.

Looking to go with blues and grays for your home’s exterior siding or outdoor renovation project? Here are some complementary stone veneer colors, styles and brands available through Instone:

Make Way for the Buffs

Look out blues, there’s a new color in town! Alicandro says buff tones are gaining traction as a popular look for landscaping, with Aura’s Phoenician Buff leading the charge. 

This stone features pale speckles and veins of gray and pink mixed with beige-buff coloring to create beautiful texture and movement with a gentle warmth.

Another buff stone is Aura’s Oxford Buff Sandstone, which Alicandro says is relatively new, but quickly gaining popularity. “It’s really catching the eye of homeowners,” he says. The taupe beige sandstone is speckled with darker tones of black and brown for a classic neutral that will go with warm color palettes.

When planning your project in buff tones, here are some complementary colors, styles and brands available at Instone:

Lighter Colors Are In

Lighten up! At least in your backyard space. That’s what Alicandro says is trending at the moment. “I see the lighter colors coming on strong. We have some travertines that are ideal for these palettes.”

Silver Travertine has become in high-demand for pool stone, says Alicandro. “It’s popular because it’s light, and doesn’t get as hot in the summer, so people won’t burn their feet on it.”

As for granites in lighter colors, Alicandro recommends Silver Ridge Granite. “This is really a nice, light granite with a lot of character and movement throughout. It’s very unique,” he says, adding that the product is exclusive to Instone and recommends placing orders this winter for those spring and summer patio and pool projects.

Alicandro says Gray Granite is in the same color range as Silver Ridge but without the movement. “This is a more formal-looking, light-colored granite.” Here are some complementary pairings for a light- color project palette:

Home Improvement Projects

Just fell in love with a stone color and style but not sure how to begin planning your new project? Check out our blog on creating a backyard oasis with natural stone for a little help. Some projects to consider:

  • Curb appeal – siding, entryways, driveways, walkways, steps, pavers, curbing, walls
  • Interior – fireplace surrounds, feature walls, bars, kitchen islands
  • Backyard entertainment – patios, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits, pizza ovens
  • Water elements – pools, hot tubs, fountains

This winter, spend some time indoors planning your next home project thanks to a little inspiration from Justin and our wide variety of the hottest stone colors and styles of 2023.

Fill out the form below for access to our 2023 Color Guide!

We want to know your favorite stone color combination! Vote for one of the combos above in the comments below.

The Homeowner’s Guide to Building a Backyard Oasis With Natural Stone

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The Homeowner’s Guide to Building a Backyard Oasis With Natural Stone

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Imagine stepping into your backyard and having everything you love right at your fingertips.

—a pool for cooling off, a fireplace for warming up, and an outdoor entertainment area for drinks and dinners. If you’re planning to create a backyard oasis, whether small or big, there are a few things you should keep in mind. We spoke with landscape designer Cysilia Schaub with The Concrete Service, Inc. to find out what you need to know before you start designing your backyard project.

Landscape Designer, Cysilia Schaub

What’s Your Vision for Your Backyard Oasis?

When you look out back, what do you want to see? Maybe it’s a pool for the kids and a patio dining area for you? Schaub suggests starting by living in your space for a little while to get a feel for how you might want to use it. Then make a wish list. Be sure to have all parties involved who will be using the space, such as both partners in a couple.

“If it’s just the wife doing the design, then the husband may come in and want something different. Then the designer has to do a lot of extra work going back and redoing the plan to accommodate them both, which can also push out the timeline.” Schaub says.

She suggests putting what you want in your wish list and your likes and dislikes. If you see something at a neighbor’s house or online, add it to the list to share with the designer. “That way I can make sure to start steering them in the right direction,” says Schaub.

If you need some more direction when it comes to the design process from inspiration to finalizing a design for a contractor, Tilly Design is a great resource for helping you create a custom landscape design.

Timing Is Everything

Being aware of timing is also important. Schaub says many homeowners want to start a backyard project as soon as the warm spring weather hits. But then they face the reality of waiting for materials, available contractors or the project taking longer than they imagined. She says it’s a good idea to start planning a year to six months in advance. “If you only give your contractor a couple of months to come up with the design, figure out a budget and get everything mobilized, chances are it’s not going to happen. If you want a project for next summer, start planning this summer.”

Start By Contacting a Reputable Landscape Designer or Architect

As a homeowner, it may be daunting to know whom to call to start a backyard project. A little industry insight: A landscape designer can create a backyard project based on their experience and knowledge. They may not be formally educated in the trade or have a degree in a related skill. A landscape architect may have a higher education in engineering or civil architecture. Some design-build firms are both design and install, and have a collection of landscape designers and builders who work for them and can complete a project from beginning to end. Some designers work independently to design a project and then can recommend contractors to do the work.

Schaub says finding the right people is really important. Not only are you making a major investment in your home, and you want the work to be done well, but you also have to work—and live—with these people around your home potentially for months. “You’re going to have to look at and be with them every day,” she says. “You want to trust them and get along with them.”

Be sure to take the time to research them and meet them. Look at their portfolio, understand their experience. Get a sense of how they work and their capability of handling your project so you both feel comfortable going in.

The Onsite Walk-Through to the Design

Your landscape professional will first want to do a walk-through of your property and discuss what you want to do. Keep in mind that functionality is a priority over aesthetics. Your intended use of the area must be established. Then you can make it pretty. Once the designer understands your vision, they will create a design for you to approve or ask for revisions. Schaub says it’s worth including a building contractor in the discussions to note any challenges to technical aspects of the installation and to make sure the design is within budget.

Natural Stone vs. Manufactured Stone or Concrete

Schaub notes that a big part of the budget will be determined by the cost of the materials, followed by the labor cost. When your design is getting to the final stage, your designer will likely bring you samples from a company like Instone for you to select the stone style you want. While natural stone such as Aura Natural Landscapes may be a bit more expensive than manufactured stone, Schaub recommends it because the benefits outweigh the cost. “A big benefit is the aesthetic. The color and movement of natural stone just looks so much better,” she says. “Concrete products are made to mimic natural stone and some do it well, others don’t.”

She adds that the durability of natural stone also can’t be beaten. It’s stain resistant, scratch resistant and fade resistant. It’s been on earth for millions of years and can withstand the elements. While some concrete products try to include these benefits, Schaub cautions, “By the time you’re getting into the price range of a concrete product that has all of these features, it’s pretty close to the price of natural stone. So it’s pretty easy to make that jump and just go with natural stone.”

Here are some selections of Aura Natural Landscapes:

Benefits of Using Aura Natural Landscapes

Schaub says she’s now worked with Aura Natural Landscapes for several projects. She says what she likes about it is how consistent the product is. “The colors and thickness of the stone are exactly what you’re expecting, which is really important from an install standpoint.”

She says the availability is also better than other products meaning short lead times. “It’s not uncommon to have to wait three months for materials. But with Aura, I can usually get it within a couple of weeks. And their customer service is great. I’ve had questions about how to manipulate the product, and they are quick to respond.”

What Can You Put in Your Backyard?

Some options to consider when setting up your backyard oasis include:

Features:

  • Outdoor kitchen/bar
  • Pool
  • Patio
  • Garden
  • Sitting area
  • Fireplace
  • Fire pit
  • Water feature (fountain, waterfall)

Design Style:

  • Formal
  • Informal
  • Modern/Contemporary
  • Woodland/Natural/Rustic

While it’s easy to want everything, and improving your backyard space will bring a higher return on your home’s value, it’s better to start small than go overboard. You want to make sure you’re going to use everything you put in. A simple design may also be more attractive if you want to sell your home later on to someone who will like what you’ve done rather than someone who may want to rip out an overdone backyard. And remember, the more complex the project, the longer the installation will take.

Other Considerations for Your Backyard Oasis

Schaub says you also want to consider what is already in your backyard. Is there a view you want to take advantage of? Are there slopes that need to be accommodated with steps and proper water drainage? Are there mature trees with large roots? Your designer will help you work around challenges and take advantage of the natural beauty of your property.

Also, note what permits you may need to do building work. These can range from county soil and erosion permits, building permits and permits if your property is on an inland lake or stream. Check your local township and state requirements for what’s needed. In addition, check what setbacks you have to follow for your particular property. Your landscape designer should be able to help you find out what permits you need for your specific design.

So if you’re thinking about a backyard makeover, the time to start planning is now. Make your wish list and contact us for samples of Aura Natural Landscaping products!

5 Steps to Expertly Source Natural Stone: The Landscape Architects Resource

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5 Steps to Expertly Source Natural Stone: The Landscape Architects Resource

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With more people spending time outdoors, backyard designs are in high demand. And so is beautiful stonework to create all the amenities for luxurious outdoor living: patios, pools, spas, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and fire pits, as well as the hardscaping: steps, walls and walkways.

5 Steps to Expertly Source Natural Stone: The Landscape Architects Resource

Instone can provide landscape designers and architects with the stone information, samples, technical specs, shop drawings and custom stone fabrication they need to complete projects and satisfy clients.

It starts with a plan set. When that is sent to Instone, the Fabrication and Design Teams get to work to provide the support that landscape architects’ needs.

A Stone Sourcing Checklist for Landscape Professionals:

“Availability is key,” says Instone’s senior estimator, Nicole Blackburn. “We can let them know what standards we have in stock and how fast they can get it. We provide samples for their requests. We’ll also provide options based on our experience and expertise. We will let them know the time it will take to get the product and the price point so they can take it back to the homeowner to decide on what they want.”

Instone also gives landscape architects the technical data including the stone’s stocking sizes and country of origin, as well as mechanical properties such as density, water absorption, and rupture compression strength.

Example of the product specification Instone provides for each of its Aura stone products.

“Usually, they want to know the density of the stone, how durable it is, how it will hold up under the weather conditions and if the stones get hot underfoot. We can provide all of that information,” says Blackburn.

When the Fabrication and Design Teams receive a plan (or drawing) set of a full backyard design, takeoff and stone schedule, they then provide an estimate to a local stone distributor. Once the quote is approved, the shop drawing process begins for each stone. It includes the type of stone, dimensions, finish and fabrication work such as edging and placement according to the stone schedule. Instone works closely with local distributors, landscape designers and contractors to ensure the shop drawing is perfectly constructed and accommodates their needs.

Once all parties approve the specifics, the work begins with fabrication cuts on the natural stones to prepare them for installation.

Because timing is everything with stone, Blackburn advises homeowners and landscape architects to plan ahead. “Most people want to start backyard projects as soon as winter is ending. The weather is warming up, and they want the stone quickly. They may be limited to what we have in stock, or they will have to wait if their heart is set on a particular stone, we work to get it for them.” She recommends people start their planning process before or during the winter months, so if there is some wait time, the project will be completed by the start of summer.

Instone’s Fabrication and Design Teams are here to help landscape architects and designers get what they need quickly and professionally to create beautiful outdoor living spaces for their clients.

6 Places Your Outdoor Design Needs Stone Fabrication & What’s Possible

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6 Places Your Outdoor Design Needs Stone Fabrication & What’s Possible

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instone

When creating a project with hardscaping, most of the work can be created with standard-size products. But if you want something a little more unique or specific to the project, Instone’s in-house fabrication and design teams are at your service.

Going beyond standard will give you the flexibility to create backyard patio ideas uniquely you. Feature non-standard shapes, specialty finishes or cut to size pieces in your outdoor kitchens, fire pits, pool coping, water features, wall caps and staircases.

Our design team can work with you on any project to do custom natural stone cuts and finishes for the specification of Aura® Natural Stone Landscapes products. We can also be your partner in the design of large-scale projects offering project management solutions, estimating, engineering and global sourcing of stone products for a truly turnkey solution.

Our Design Services Manager, Zach Beaulieu, shares the details on all our fabrication and design departments offer.

Introducing Instone’s Fabrication Services 

When you want something custom to match your artistic vision in stone for a residential or commercial project, or you’re inspired by something you’ve seen in-person or on-line, let Instone’s fabrication team bring your hardscaping vision to life. 

“We do custom orders,” says Beaulieu. “Instone carries standard stock sizes of Aura products, but if a client wants something a little different, we can cut it to different sizes and finishes.” There isn’t a request the team can’t handle regarding sizes, cuts, finishes, edges or shapes. “

There are certain situations where most jobsite tools just won’t be able to perform the work needed to cut and finish stones efficiently and effectively. That’s where Instone’s shop equipment and expertise comes into play. Many of the large-scale machines at the shop are stationary and require special calibration to make them operate properly and the expertise of our fabricators is an important factor in getting those nuances and details just right.

From slab countertops to custom stone finishes, Instone’s equipment and craftsmen provide you with access to the most cutting edge technology and customization to get the job done right. 

Some of the options available include:

  • Straight cuts
  • Radial (curved) cuts
  • Edge finishes 
  • Rockface
  • Bullnose
  • Half Bullnose
  • Chamfer
  • Thermal
  • Shotblast
  • Eased – 1/8, ¼, 3/8
  • Slow C
  • Leathered
  • Top finish for countertops such as a leather finish
  • Profiles: custom shapes for countertops such as L-shapes

This customization can be applied to any of the following projects:

  • Outdoor kitchens
  • Sills
  • Firepit caps
  • Spa coping
  • Stair treads and wall caps
  • Monolithic steps

Want more inspiration?

Review our portfolio of custom projects. 

Available materials: 

Introducing Instone’s Design Services 

Instone’s Design Team works on large-scale, high-end residential and commercial projects, including backyard renovations, main street businesses to college campuses. Natural stone can beautify just about any space.

According to Beaulieu, “The design team offers solutions depending on what the project entails.” That usually means working with the landscape architect on the stone aspect of the project. We can help with color recommendations and stone sourcing, fabrication, and estimating the value and engineering. We also create a stone schedule, which assigns each stone piece a code that dictates placement in the project, like a giant puzzle with instructions for assembly.”

Usually with these large-scale projects, there are a number of parties involved, including landscape designers, landscape contractors, project managers, local dealers, wholesale stone distributors and quarries where the stone is sourced. Beaulieu says they primarily deal with the landscape architect, who creates the initial design, but all parties agree on the final outcome.

The timeline of projects of this magnitude can vary from weeks to years, depending on the complexity involved and availability of the materials. Instone’s design team will work efficiently to ensure your stone products meet your needs and source the optimal material for your project and timeframe.

See our webpage for details on the options available for fabrication and design.

Use Aura Natural Stone to Turn an Ordinary Backyard Into an Oasis

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Use Aura Natural Stone to Turn an Ordinary Backyard Into an Oasis

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Turn An Ordinary Backyard into An Oasis Using Aura Natural Stone

Spring means the weather is warming and the flowers are blooming. It also means summer is right around the corner and it’s time to get your outdoor space summer-ready. Upgrading your backyard with a new pool or patio will add to your enjoyment factor and increase the ways you can maximize that real estate you paid for. It will also increase your resale value.

Aura Blue Mist 

We spoke with Andrew Everleigh of Environmental Pools, who uses Aura natural stone on pools and patios around the New England area. He says the color selection is really where a project begins. “The color pattern is crucial. You start there and then think about the texture you want.”

The color you choose depends on what goes with your house and what’s popular in your neighborhood, whether it’s the blues and grays or more of the tans and browns. 

Throughout much of New England it’s blue, particularly Pennsylvania Blue Stone that is often requested. Because of its popularity and recent supply chain issues due to the pandemic, this stone often isn’t in stock. However Aura offers equally beautiful blue hues, including Italian Blue Stone, Blue Sky, and Blue Mist. The newest, Italian Bluestone is a very strong sandstone with no iron in it so the color stays blue with no rusting over time.

Indiana Limestone is another popular stone that is often hard to get. For that, Aura has comparable alternatives like Sandy Point and Oxford Buff.

 Before & After with Aura Sandy Point

Aura natural landscapes can add beauty and durability to your new patio and pool area. Aura is a premier source for domestic and imported natural stone for hardscaping projects. There are a variety of stone options including granite, limestone, pebbles, quartzite, sandstone, and Travertine.

Using natural stone products on and around your home will immediately increase its value thanks to its longevity and because it is resistant to wind, fire, water, and bug infestation. Often, it also has greater slip resistance than manufactured stone. 

Aura Blue Ice Thermal Sandstone

Each stone is uniquely beautiful, and Aura offers a large selection of colors and finishes to choose from, sourced from countries worldwide. See the selections in our Aura brochure.

Aura Silver Ridge

Everleigh says it’s best to work with a professional such as a landscape architect or a contractor like Everleigh’s company, Environmental Pools. They have the experience and knowledge required to suggest colors. “They would help narrow down the color options and source samples to see the color in person and feel the texture,” he says.

Aura Sandy Point Granite With Bluestone Coping

For a homeowner, a pool and patio project may feel like a daunting task. Everleigh breaks down where to start. “Everything starts at the master planning level. An architect, or somebody like myself, would work with the homeowner to create a patio layout and determine where everything sits and consider the size of the stones. Homeowners just need to trust the process. We do this work every day and understand the sequencing and different types of topography. Everybody’s yard is different, so every project will take a different approach. Hiring an experienced firm is really important.”

Everleigh says to be sure to hire someone experienced in installing patios and pools. “Don’t just bring in a mason to layout a backyard just from walking around. It takes studying the topography, the water, everything, to make an effective project come to life.”

If you’re not sure what you want your new patio and pool area to look like, you can try doing a few searches online for ideas or look at what your neighbors have. Pinterest is a great source of design inspiration.

Everleigh has a catalog of his team’s projects that he uses to give people ideas of what’s possible. “We go through and narrow down what they’re looking for and see what they like and don’t like. We help drive the conversation based on what we know, as opposed to just having them find photos on their own. There’s so much out there; it can be overwhelming.”

He says outdoor kitchens and bars have been popular for patios lately along with water features for pools. As for color, Aura’s Blue Mist and Silver Ridge granite are the biggest sellers in his New England area.

Landscape Pebbles Accentuate This Poolside Design with Aura Pebbles Beach

Everleigh says that designs for pools and patios don’t really go by trends, since people aren’t likely to rip out a backyard area based on a new style coming in. The looks stay pretty streamlined based on what a homeowner’s friends have done, their home’s architecture, or what‘s popular in the area.

The best piece of advice Everleigh can provide to homeowners wanting a new patio or pool in their backyard is to make a plan. “The more you can figure out ahead of time the better. Working through a design before you start building saves a lot of headaches on the backend.”

Natural Stone and Outdoor Living Made Easy: Instone Has You Covered

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Natural Stone and Outdoor Living Made Easy: Instone Has You Covered

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Join Instone at the Northeast Hardscape Expo and see why natural stone is trending. Whether you ‘re looking for fresh new natural stone colors or have questions, Instone can help. Meet the A-Team and pick up a free t-shirt at the show!

You won’t want to miss the new products we’ll be bringing. Stop by our booth #500 and meet our A-Team, who can show you samples, provide education on applications and let you know how to order. Now read on to learn more about our featured products!

Pangaea®

Unlike any other stone veneer product on the market, Pangaea® sets itself apart from the rest with its unique packaging and application technology. Just lift the top off a pallet, and you’ll see for yourself, this product is ready for application right out of the box. Each stone is pre-cut, tooled, trimmed and fitted together like layers of completed puzzles, saving you time, money and product waste. Plus, each pallet layer is pre-blended for optimal color variance and size ratio. You can see exactly how much product you’re getting in each palette and the coloring is quality controlled.

Every Pangaea® pallet is cut, tooled, trimmed and fitted before it comes to you.

“Pangaea® really separates themselves by doing things differently,” says Justin Alicandro, VP of Natural Stone Products, who’s been sourcing stone products for over 20 years. “They take the time to make the best quality thin veneer in the world, hands down. The biggest reason is they hand trim the stones and square them up before they package them. The packaging looks like a mockup for a job. With other products, the mason has to trim the stone, creating a lot of waste. Pangaea® has 100% product yield, and the others have maybe 80%, so it’s a more profitable stone. The mason just takes it out of the pallet and puts it on the wall, for a fast and simple installation.”

If that’s not enough, each Pangaea® veneer piece features Gripset® technology, pre-scored grooves on the back of each stone, enabling better adhesion to any surface. No more worrying about your veneer work moving or sliding.

Alicandro says they’ll also be showcasing a new Pangaea color® at the Expo, Pangaea® Providence, “It has some nice earth tone colors with grays and browns. It’s a blend of five different stones.”

New 2022 Pangaea® Color: Providence Shown 

Learn more about Pangaea® on our product page

Aura Natural Landscapes

Supply chain issues? What supply chain issues? You won’t find a shortage of selection when it comes to our natural stone landscape product line, Aura. Available in a variety of products – paving, steps, treads, slabs and more, plus an ever-increasing line of colors sourced from countries all over the world. “Bluestone is the most popular color in the United States,” says Alicandro. “But because of supply chain issues, a lot of people can’t get it. We try to stay ahead of the competition by continually bringing in new selections and finding alternatives to stones that aren’t readily available. We plan ahead. We order early and often.”

Speaking of Bluestone, Alicandro says they’ll be bringing Aura’s new Italian Bluestone to the Expo, “It’s a very strong sandstone and there’s no iron in it so the color will stay blue. It won’t rust or brown over time.”

Aura Italian Bluestone: New for 2022

Learn more about Aura Natural Landscapes on our product page

Alicandro says they’re bringing a full-color palette to the Hardscape Expo for attendees to see it in person. “We’ll be showcasing some new sandstones. They are the densest sandstones in the world. Some say it’s hard as granite. And it’s a very competitive price point.”

Some colors to look for:

  • Blue Mist
  • Blue Sky Grey (a Blue Mist alternative that doesn’t get as hot)
  • Blue Ice
  • Autumn Brown
  • Oxford Buff

Why Natural Stone?

Natural stone comes from the earth; therefore, it has durability on its side. Using stone products on and around your home will immediately increase its value, not only because of its longevity but it is also resistant to wind, fire, water and bug infestation. “It’s the Ferrari of materials. It’s not manufactured. You can’t get a better-quality product for your home,” says Alicandro.

So come see us at the Hardscape Expo. Check out our products, meet the A-Team and get your free T-shirt! We can’t wait to meet you!