Natural stone is the original green building material.
TOP 5
Types of Stone for Outdoor Construction in Calgary
Calgary outdoor construction has come a long way from just making patios and walkways. Nowadays, owners are converting their backyards into hip, functional outdoor areas. No matter what kind of outdoor space you’re searching for — whether it’s a patio for entertaining or a stone-clad fireplace you can cozy up to — the choices you make will determine its overall function, look, and feel, and these days, stone is still the leading option.
Read on to find the top 5 types of stone for outdoor construction in Calgary, and learn how natural and engineered varieties stack up against each other so that you can make your choice with absolute certainty for your home and climate.
Perfect For Outdoor Projects in Calgary – Why Stone Is So Effective
Calgary’s variation in temperature can also be attributed to its location near the foot of the Rocky Mountains, which makes it prone to heavy wind chill and even snowstorms. These are harsh conditions that call for durable, low-maintenance building materials — stone is a perfect choice.
Stones (natural and artificial) are appreciated for their:
Popular outdoor uses include: • Patios and outdoor dining areas • Walkways and stepping stone paths • Fire pits and fireplaces • Retaining walls and garden borders • Outdoor kitchens and BBQ surrounds • Pool decks and water features
While other materials, such as wood or composite alternatives, can warp, fade, and need replacing often, this is not the case with types of stone for outdoor construction in Calgary that provide a durable and lasting finish that will endure the elements of Alberta’s climate.
How Stone Rates Against Other Outdoor Materials
Before getting into the details of individual stones, you might want to compare stones with these other common outdoor materials:
Material
Durability
Maintenance
Aesthetics
Cost
Natural Stone
High
Moderate
Unique, timeless
High
Concrete
Moderate
Low
Customizable
Moderate
Wood
Low
High
Warm, rustic
Moderate
Composite
Moderate
Low
Uniform look
High
Stone, as well as the property value, and a better warranty compared to wood and composite decking, some of which are poor performers in the long run.
Top 5 Types of Stone for Outdoor Construction in Calgary
Flagstone
Flagstone is a flat, layered rock similar to sandstone, famous for earth-tone colors and a virtually non-slip surface. Thanks to its superior slip resistance and funky, natural appearance, it is widely used in patios and walkways.
Typical Applications: Patio, swimming pool, garden paths Available colors: Gray, brown, red, blue slate Weight: Approx. 150–170 lbs per cubic foot
Advantages: • Naturally slip-resistant • Each piece is unique • Performs well in freeze-thaw conditions
Considerations: • Installation takes some skill because the shapes are uneven • More expensive than poured concrete
Flagstone provides a rough, natural-looking surface great for patios and walkways, giving you excellent traction and visual appeal.
Granite
Granite is a type of igneous rock that is well-known for its durability, resistance to scratches, and sleek, shiny look. Great for outdoor countertops, stairs, and high-traffic areas.
Advantages: • Extremely hard and durable • Stain and heat resistant • Gives an upscale look in outdoor spaces
Considerations: • Heavy and hard to install without a crane • Must be sealed to avoid water absorption
If you’re planning a more elaborate outdoor kitchen with virtually all the bells and whistles, or a stone-clad fire pit, granite can be a great long-term option.
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is smooth, uniform, and relatively light in color. Its low density also helps in cutting operations, and it is popular for custom machining.
Uses: Seat walls, paving, columns, accent walls Colors: Cream, pale beige, pale gray, pale yellow Weight: Approx. 169 lbs per cubic foot
Advantages: • Contemporary, light-toned aesthetic • Easy to cut and shape • Suitable for modern landscape designs
Considerations: • More porous than granite • Must be sealed regularly and protected from acids
Limestone makes a perfect match for the modern landscape wanting clean lines and a color palette on the brighter side.,
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are industrially made pavers of concrete. They are popular because they are inexpensive, modular, and available in various colors.
Common Uses: Driveways, walkways, patios Colors: Tan, red, gray, and charcoal, custom colors Weight: Approx. 150 lbs per cubic foot
Advantages: • Uniform and easy to install • Wide design and color flexibility • Cost-effective alternative to natural stone
Considerations: • Possible cracking in severe freeze-thaw cycles • May discolor in direct sunlight over time
Concrete pavers, with the right sealer and a good base, can be a practical option.
Manufactured Stone Veneer
Manufactured stone veneer is a man-made, lightweight product that has been engineered for use on vertical applications. It looks like natural stone but is not as heavy, structurally.
Typical Uses: Outdoor fireplaces, garden walls, kitchen cladding Styles: They mimic flagstone, ledgestone, river rock, and beyond
Advantages: • Lightweight and easy to apply • Lower material and labor costs • Visually appealing for non-structural elements
Considerations: • Not suitable for structural loads • May not age as well as quarried stone
For non-structural elements that you want to upgrade visually, manufactured veneer stone is more economical than real stone.
Tips for Maintaining Stone
Stone may be hardy, but well-maintained means lasting, especially in a tough climate like Calgary’s.
Sealing: Seal with a good-quality sealer every 1-3 years, as necessary, especially for porous stones (limestone, granite).
Cleaning: Use pH-neutral stone cleaners. Do not use acidic products, which can affect the surface of the stone.
Seasonal Care: There are no chemical products for removing snow; instead, plastic shovels should be used to prevent scratching. Avoid de-icers that can harm the stone.
Drainage: Good grading and water runoff will keep water from freezing under the stone and causing it to crack or shift.
With proper care, stones can last for decades with virtually no maintenance.
The Influence of Calgary’s Climate on Your Choice of Stone
Calgary has long, harsh winters with regular freeze-thaw cycles that can challenge exterior building materials.
Here’s how to prepare:
• Use solid, low-porosity stones and avoid using porous or spongy stones for counters and floors. • Your foundation and joints should be well-drained to prevent frost heave. • Ensure slip resistance for walkways around the pool or poolside areas. • Choose paler colors that reflect rather than absorb heat in full sun.
Professional installation by a local stonemason would be recommended to make sure your stonework is appropriate for Calgary.
Internal or External: Compare at a Glance
Feature
Natural Stone
Manufactured Stone
Appearance
Unique, high-end finish
Consistent, customizable
Longevity
Lasts a long time if well maintained
Not as durable in harsh weather
Weight/Installation
Heavier, needs more labor to install
Lighter, easier to install
Cost
Higher upfront investment
More budget-friendly
Maintenance
Needs sealing and cleaning
Low maintenance
Climate Performance
Excellent (sealed)
Fair to good; depends on variety
Question and Answer: Outdoor Stone Selection
What is the hardest stone for Calgary winters?
Granite is very strong and does great in freeze-thaw.
How frequently should I seal my outdoor stone?
Generally every 1–3 years, depending on stone type and climate.
Can I DIY stone?
Smaller projects, such as pavers, may be DIY-friendly, but natural stone typically needs to be professionally installed to ensure that it lasts.
Few things are as long-lasting or can add to your home’s curb appeal the way stone can. Whether you prefer fine granite, the rugged, organic feel of flagstone, contemporary limestone with a clean look, or a man-made product, choosing the right stone types for construction can change the way your outside construction project turns out. At Martini Stone Masonry, we provide professional advice and stone installation for homeowners and business owners throughout Calgary. From guiding you through stone selection to professionally installing it, we make sure that your outdoor living space can stand up to the test of time.
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At Martini Stone Masonry, we’re passionate about transforming spaces with the enduring beauty of natural stone. Our team sources the finest materials and provides expert guidance to bring your design ideas to life.
