Is your garden in need of a landscaping refresh? If you’re looking for ideas that will both spruce up your garden’s looks and also add value to your property, cast stone is an excellent option. This hard wearing material has been used in landscaping projects for centuries, and it’s easy to see why: cast stone is incredibly versatile and can be moulded into a variety of shapes and sizes, making it ideal for crafting stunning garden features such as fountains, pillars, decorative items and more.
Interested in using cast stone in your landscaping project but aren’t sure where to get started? You’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll provide insights into a range of cast stone garden products, their uses and how to care for them properly.
Why Choose Cast Stone for Landscaping?
There’s a number of reasons why you should consider adding cast stone landscaping to your garden. Some of the biggest benefits of cast stone products include:
Attractive & Cost-Effective
With cast stone, you can achieve the desired aesthetic without any limitations, meaning you get full control over the final look. High-quality moulds allow for the creation of elegant curves, sharp lines and intricate decorative features. What’s more, all of this can be done without dealing with the high costs associated with carving, cutting or shaping natural stone.
Durable
One of the biggest benefits of cast stone is its durability. It withstands harsh weather conditions and requires little maintenance, making it ideal for outdoor use. Unlike natural stone, which can be prone to chipping and cracking over time, cast stone retains its appearance for years with little upkeep.
Cost-Effective
While natural stone can be expensive and tough to source, cast stone acts as a more affordable option - without compromising on quality. Our cast stone products are designed to be both budget-friendly and long-lasting, meaning that you get the best value for your money.
Types of Cast Stone Products
Now that you know a little bit about why cast stone products are a great choice of material, let’s talk about how you can incorporate it into your landscaping project.
Stone Wall Copings
One of the most popular uses of cast stone in landscaping is for stone wall copings. Not only do they add a polished look to your garden walls but also serve a practical purpose by protecting the wall from weather damage.
At Shropshire Brick & Stone, our cast stone wall copings are available in a variety of profiles, from classic flat-topped designs to more intricate, decorative options. Whether you're building a retaining wall, a boundary wall or simply want to enhance an existing structure, stone wall copings can provide the perfect finishing touch.
When choosing stone wall copings, you’ll want to consider both visual and practical factors. For example, if your wall is situated in an area prone to heavy rainfall, opting for a coping with a slight slope can help direct water away from the wall, preventing potential water damage down the line.
Stone Pier Caps
If your landscaping project includes pillars or gateposts, cast stone pier caps are a must-have. Pier caps not only spruce up the appearance of your pillars, but also protect them from weather damage.
Our range of stone pier caps at Shropshire Brick & Stone includes various designs and sizes to suit different architectural styles. Whether you're looking for a simple, understated cap or something more ornate, we have the perfect solution to elevate the look of your pillars.
Much like stone wall copings, pier caps also serve a practical purpose by preventing water from seeping into the top of the pillar, which can cause cracking and erosion over time. For an even more striking effect, you could think about adding lighting fixtures to your pier caps, which can create a stunning focal point for your entrance or garden.
Garden Paths and Paving
Cast stone paving slabs can create beautiful garden paths that are both functional and beautiful. Whether you prefer a contemporary or traditional look, cast stone allows you to achieve the perfect balance of style and durability. Pairing cast stone paving with matching edging stones can create a cohesive look that brings the overall design of your garden together.
For a more personalised touch, you could consider incorporating decorative cast stone elements such as stepping stones or feature tiles into your garden path, which can add unique character to your garden.
Water Features
Water features are a fantastic way to improve your garden , and cast stone is the perfect material for creating elegant fountains, birdbaths and ponds. The smooth finish and natural appearance of cast stone blend in well with the surrounding landscape, and can be easily incorporated into other outdoor features such as pools or ponds.
Seating Areas and Benches
You could also create inviting seating areas in your garden using cast stone benches. Providing a peaceful place to sit, cast stone benches are durable and can withstand the elements, making them a long-lasting addition to any garden.
For a cohesive look, you might want to pair your cast stone seating with matching planters or decorative features. This creates a sense of unity throughout your garden, making it feel well thought out.
How to Care for Cast Stone Products
While cast stone products do require little maintenance, being outside all year round does mean that occasionally, they’ll need a little TLC to look their best. While you should always check with the manufacturer’s instructions for best cleaning practices, here’s a typical cleaning routine for your cast stone.
Remove Debris
Use a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth to remove any dirt, dust or debris from the surface of your cast stone. Doing this will help to avoid scratches or damage to the stone during the cleaning process.
Create a Cleaning Solution
Mix a small amount of mild detergent or soap with warm water. Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
Apply Cleaning Solution
Dip a clean cloth into the cleaning solution and gently apply it to the cast stone surface. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including any crevices or hard-to-reach areas.
Scrub
Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the surface of the cast stone. Be gentle to avoid causing any scratches or damage.
Rinse
Once scrubbed, use a hose or bucket of clean water to rinse the cast stone thoroughly. Make sure to remove all soap suds so it doesn’t linger on the surface.
Dry
Avoid using a cloth or towel to dry off the cast stone, as this can leave behind lint or fibres. Instead, leave it to air dry.
Transform Your Garden with Cast Stone Products
Don't settle for anything less than the best for your landscaping project; our range of cast stone products are manufactured to the highest standard, and can be customised to meet your architectural tastes and the needs of your home. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and discover how our bespoke cast stone products can transform your garden.
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