Preparing for Patio Season: Incorporating Flag Stone and Washed Rock into Your Backyard

As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, many homeowners in Salt Lake City, Utah, are eager to transform their backyards into inviting outdoor retreats. Using materials like flag stone and washed rock can significantly improve the aesthetic and functionality of these spaces. At Kilgore Landscape Center, a division of Asphalt Materials Inc., we have been supplying quality landscaping products to the Wasatch Front for over 40 years. Our expertise in landscaping products such as decorative landscaping rock, colored landscaping rocks, washed rocks, landscaping sand, bulk road salt and more positions us as a trusted partner for your next project.

Understanding Flag Stone and Washed Rock

Flag stone is a sedimentary rock that splits into flat layers, making it ideal for creating patios, walkways, and stepping stones. Its natural, earthy appearance adds timeless beauty to any landscape design. Washed rock, on the other hand, refers to stones that have been mechanically washed to remove dirt and debris, resulting in clean, smooth surfaces. These rocks are excellent for drainage solutions, decorative ground cover, and creating contrast in landscaping projects.

Benefits 

• Durability: Both materials are known for their longevity and ability to withstand Utah's varying climate conditions.

• Low Maintenance: Once installed, stone patios and washed rock areas require minimal upkeep, saving time and resources.

• Aesthetic Appeal: The natural textures and colors of these materials blend with outdoor environments, improving visual interest.

• Versatility: Suitable for various applications, from functional pathways to decorative features, these materials offer flexibility in design.

Incorporating Flag Stone into Your Backyard

Designing a Patio

A flag stone patio serves as an excellent foundation for outdoor living spaces. Its irregular shapes and earthy tones create a rustic charm that complements various architectural styles. When designing your patio, consider mixing this stone with other materials to create distinct zones. For instance, combining the stone with landscape rocks can delineate dining areas from lounging spaces, adding depth and texture to the design.

Creating Walkways

Walkways guide guests through your garden while adding structure and elegance. The design possibilities are vast; you can opt for a storybook forest path using irregular stones interspersed with ground cover plants, or a smooth, straight sidewalk with stone pavers for a more formal look.

Building Steps

For properties with varying elevations, steps provide a natural transition between different levels. They are perfect for connecting a raised garden, sloping hill, or leading from a driveway to the front patio. The natural look of these stones integrates smoothly with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Incorporating Washed Rock into Your Backyard

Improving Drainage

Washed rock is an excellent material for improving drainage around your property. Its clean, smooth surfaces allow water to flow freely, reducing the risk of erosion and water pooling. Installing this rock around downspouts or in low-lying areas can effectively manage runoff and protect your landscape.

Decorative Ground Cover

Using this type of rock as a ground cover offers a clean and modern look to your garden beds. It suppresses weed growth, retains soil moisture, and provides a contrasting backdrop for plants. The variety of sizes and colors available allows you to customize the appearance to suit your design preferences.

Creating Dry Creek Beds

“A dry creek bed manages a common landscape challenge—drainage—with an easy-does-it approach that fits most budgets. In some situations, a dry creek bed simply directs and disperses water that would typically puddle and stand for a few days. In other cases, a dry bed transforms into a temporary stream. In the process, it adds beauty to the setting, whether wet or dry,” says Better Homes & Gardens. Dry creek beds constructed with rock add visual interest and serve functional purposes. They mimic the appearance of a natural stream, guiding rainwater away from structures and preventing erosion. This feature can be both a practical drainage solution and an attractive landscape element.

Combining Flag Stone and Washed Rock

Integrating both materials can result in a cohesive and visually appealing landscape design. For example, surrounding a flag stone patio with washed rock creates a defined border and improves the natural look. Similarly, using this rock between stone pavers in walkways can provide stability and contrast, highlighting the unique shapes and colors of the stone.

Additional Landscaping Ideas

To further improve your outdoor space, consider incorporating landscaping boulders or decorative cobblestones as accents in your design. Using mulch in garden beds alongside stone walkways can create a seamless transition between different landscape elements. Additionally, integrating outdoor lighting along pathways and patios can highlight the textures and colors of your materials, adding to the ambiance of your space.

Another creative approach is to build a fire pit or seating area using this stone, complemented by rock for surrounding ground cover. This creates a cozy, functional space for entertaining guests or enjoying quiet evenings outdoors. For a more dynamic design, consider layering various sizes of rock to create a natural, flowing landscape that mimics riverbeds and enhances visual depth.

Insider Tips for a Successful DIY Project

• Proper Planning: Before starting, sketch your design and measure the area to determine the quantity of materials needed.

• Base Preparation: A stable base is crucial for the longevity of your project. Make sure the ground is properly excavated and compacted before laying materials.

• Material Selection: Choose flag stone and washed rock that compliments your home's exterior and existing landscape. Visiting a Salt Lake landscape center like Kilgore Landscape Center can provide inspiration and access to a wide range of options.

• Edge Restraints: Installing edge restraints helps maintain the integrity of your design by preventing the movement of materials over time.

• Maintenance: While these materials are low maintenance, periodic cleaning, and inspection will keep your outdoor space looking its best.

For added protection, consider sealing your patio to prevent staining and preserve its natural beauty. Rock areas can be refreshed periodically by rinsing them with water to remove dust and debris, ensuring they maintain their clean appearance.

Why Choose Kilgore Landscape Center?

At Kilgore Landscape Center, we pride ourselves on offering a huge selection of landscaping materials to suit any project. Our inventory includes decorative landscaping rock, colored landscaping rocks, landscaping soils, Mexican beach cobble, landscaping sand, bulk road salt and more!

With over four decades of experience serving the Salt Lake City area, our team is dedicated to providing high-quality materials and expert guidance to help you bring your landscaping vision to life. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or working with a professional landscaper, we have the products and knowledge to ensure success.

Transform Your Backyard Today

Incorporating flag stone and washed rock into your backyard landscaping can elevate both its beauty and functionality. From stunning patios and walkways to decorative ground cover and drainage solutions, these materials offer endless design possibilities. Visit Kilgore Landscape Center to explore our selection and get started on your outdoor transformation today!