Starting a new landscape project is always exciting. Focus on the work on hand—and not the worry about where to find the right materials. Here are our tips on where to begin when visiting a stone supply in York and State College, PA, areas.

Related: THE 3 BEST FINDS AT A STONE SUPPLY FOR RUSTIC LANDSCAPE DESIGNS IN YORK AND LANCASTER, PA, AREAS

1. Browse the Materials for Inspiration

You may know exactly what you’re looking for, or you may have some ideas but are open to alternatives. Either way, it’s good to familiarize yourself with the selection of quality stone, concrete pavers, wall blocks, fire pit kits, steps, and veneers. This will help you with planning as well as a clear idea of what’s trending. 

2. Understand the Pros and Cons of Each Material

There is no single perfect building material. All materials have their unique characteristics, pros, and cons. Often, if a particular look is predetermined, such as bluestone, you may want to use it throughout the landscape but because it is not suitable for driveways or around pools (because it can become slippery when wet), there’s a determination that needs to be made on whether to use bluestone at all. Fortunately, our professionals can help you find alternatives that will result in the desired look. With bluestone, for example, you can find several concrete paver options that are suitable for driveways and pool decks, to give you that unified aesthetic you’re hoping to achieve.

3. Design Choices for a Satisfying Project

Choosing materials can be a big challenge. Many people can narrow their choices down to a handful, or three, within one or two visits. If you need help choosing a paver color or paver size, it’s nice to be able to see them in a real setting where you can see their sizes in relation to other materials, and observe how rain or snow affects colors. The finished outdoor living space should be treasured—whether it’s sunny, cloudy, rainy, or snowy!

4. Stock Up and Minimize Surprises

When budgeting for landscaping materials, be sure to ask one of our helpful stone supply experts who can help you plan for the correct amount of visible materials (pavers and wall units, for example) as well as the behind-the-scenes materials including substrate, bedding sand, edge restraints, joint sand, and sealant. 

Knowing how much you need will save the headache of having to put a project on hold because a material is out of stock and you’re just a few square feet from finishing.

4. Remember Outdoor Lighting Needs

The right landscape lighting can transform an outdoor living space into a magical getaway once the sun sets. From submersible lighting for a water feature to specialty lighting such as moonlighting fixtures, we have it all. And our staff will help you create a lighting design that will give you exactly the right amount and type of lighting for each zone in the backyard—from a welcoming front entry to a romantic walkway and cozy backyard dining nook, and everything in between.

5. Tie in the New Stone Features With Other Outdoor Structures

A backyard can feel incomplete without vertical structures that provide shade and establish a relaxing atmosphere, such as a pergola or gazebo. Not only do these types of structures offer shelter, but they also make a backyard feel like a truly special place to be.

Related: GET THE MATERIALS FOR YOUR YORK, PA, RETAINING WALLS FROM OUR STONE SUPPLY