If you’re planning a home renovation, incorporating natural stone can add a touch of sophistication and boost your property’s value. In Australia, several types of natural stone are commonly used, each with its own set of benefits, drawbacks, and price points. Here’s a breakdown of two popular choices—Stack Stone and Bluestone—to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
1. Stack Stone
Price Range: Around $80 to $150 per square metre, depending on whether it's natural or manufactured and the quality of the material.
Pros:
- Stunning Aesthetic: Offers a rustic, textured look that works well for feature walls, fireplaces, and outdoor facades.
- Durability: Can withstand Australia’s harsh weather conditions, making it great for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Versatility: Available in different colours and sizes, giving you plenty of design options.
Cons:
- Tricky Installation: The irregular shapes and sizes mean you’ll need a skilled tradesperson to get it looking right.
- Maintenance Needs: Natural stone may need sealing to prevent staining and weather damage, especially in outdoor areas.
Best Uses for Stack Stone:
- Feature Walls: Adds depth and texture to living rooms, hallways, or dining areas.
- Fireplaces: Works beautifully in both modern and traditional fireplace designs.
- Outdoor Cladding: Commonly used on house facades, garden walls, and even outdoor kitchens.
- Landscaping: Ideal for retaining walls, garden borders, and decorative outdoor features.
Real-Life Applications:
- A striking stack stone feature wall in a modern living room.
- A durable and stylish retaining wall in a landscaped garden.
2. Bluestone
Price Range: Usually between $100 and $200 per square metre, depending on thickness, finish, and origin.
Pros:
- Highly Durable: Can handle heavy foot traffic and is resistant to wear and tear.
- Timeless Look: The classic blue-grey shade works well with various architectural styles.
- Multi-Purpose: Suitable for indoor and outdoor spaces, including flooring, paving, and wall cladding.
Cons:
- More Expensive: It’s pricier than some other stone options, so it may not suit every budget.
- Heavy & Dense: Professional installation is recommended due to its weight and density.
Best Uses for Bluestone:
- Paving: Perfect for pathways, driveways, and patios, as it can withstand constant exposure to the elements.
- Flooring: Works well in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
- Outdoor Cladding: Gives exterior walls a sleek, natural finish.
- Stairs & Steps: Great for outdoor staircases and garden steps thanks to its durability.
Real-Life Applications:
- Bluestone paving for a stylish and long-lasting outdoor patio.
- A sleek and practical bathroom floor that complements modern interiors.
Final Thoughts
Both Stack Stone and Bluestone are fantastic choices for home renovations, offering durability and aesthetic appeal in different ways.
- Go for Stack Stone if you love a rustic, textured look for feature walls, fireplaces, or landscaping.
- Choose Bluestone if you need a tough, elegant material for high-traffic areas, driveways, or outdoor paving.
Your final choice depends on your design preferences, functional needs, and budget. Either way, investing in natural stone is a great way to elevate the look and feel of your home while ensuring longevity and durability.
At Joshua Tiles, we stay on top of the latest trends to bring you the best options. Whether you’re after a sleek modern look, a cozy natural feel, or a budget-friendly solution, we’ve got you covered. Ready to update your space? Get in touch with us today!