Natural Stone Patios & Walkways in Richmond, VA
Natural stone has a look that pavers can't quite copy. Every piece is a little different, and it weathers in rather than wearing out. RVA Hardscapes builds flagstone and bluestone patios, walkways and landings for homes across the Richmond area.
Flagstone, bluestone and other stone
• Flagstone is irregular, naturally split stone. It suits a relaxed, garden-style patio or a path with planted joints.
• Bluestone can be cut into rectangles and squares for a cleaner, more formal pattern, or used as irregular flagstone. Its blue-gray color sits well next to red brick.
• Fieldstone and other stone can be used for borders, steps and edging.
Dry-laid or mortared
Stone can be dry-laid on a compacted gravel base with stone dust or sand joints, which lets water drain through and makes small repairs easier. It can also be mortar-set on a concrete slab for a rigid surface with tight mortared joints. Each has trade-offs in cost, look and upkeep, and we'll explain which suits your site and how you'll use it.
Brick and natural stone for older Richmond homes
Many homes in the Fan District and the Museum District are brick rowhouses and early-1900s houses with their own character: aged red brick, stone and slate details, narrow side yards and small back gardens. New work should look like it belongs there. That usually means:
• Matching the brick. Older Richmond brick often differs in size, color and texture from today's standard brick. Getting close may mean comparing several options side by side, or using reclaimed brick when a new one won't blend in.
• Using traditional patterns. Herringbone and running bond are classic patterns for brick walks and patios. Herringbone locks together well underfoot, and running bond is simple and timeless.
• Pairing brick with flagstone or bluestone. A bluestone walk with a brick border, or flagstone landings at the foot of brick steps, adds contrast while staying true to the house.
• Keeping the historic character. That means keeping good existing brick or stone where possible, and choosing joint colors and edge details that look as if they've always been there.
Newer homes, too
Natural stone isn't only for old houses. A bluestone patio or a flagstone path to the side gate works just as well in Short Pump, Midlothian or Chesterfield, especially if you want something that looks a little less uniform than pavers.
Common questions
- • Is natural stone slippery? Most patio stone has a natural or textured surface. We'll help you choose a finish that suits where it's going, such as a shaded walk versus a sunny patio.
• Does stone crack in winter? The base and drainage matter most. A well-drained, compacted base keeps freeze-thaw movement to a minimum.