Whether you’re framing out a luxury patio, laying the foundation for a retaining wall, or enhancing curb appeal with custom hardscaping, the stone is one of those timeless building materials that delivers on both form and function. But not all stone is created equal—and knowing which type to use (and where to get it) can seriously elevate the quality of your projects.

So if you’re a builder, contractor, or landscape designer looking to stay sharp, let’s walk through the top 5 types of stone you should know, why they matter, and where to find a reliable stone supply that won’t leave you hanging.

1. Flagstone: The King of Outdoor Living

Flagstone is a favorite in the world of outdoor design—and for good reason. This flat, layered stone is perfect for patios, walkways, and pool decks thanks to its natural non-slip surface and earthy look.

Why Builders Love It:

  • Great traction—even when wet
  • Comes in a range of colors like buff, red, blue, and gray
  • Can be dry-laid or mortared in place
  • Adds instant character to hardscapes

Pro Tip: Opt for irregular cuts for a rustic vibe, or go geometric for modern symmetry.

Where to Source:

Look for a supplier that offers a wide selection of flagstones in different finishes and thicknesses. Outdoor Warehouse Supply in Plano, TX, is a trusted go-to for builders in the South. Their curated stone supply inventory includes high-quality flagstone varieties that fit both residential and commercial builds.

2. Limestone: The Versatile Workhorse

If you’re in Texas, odds are you’ve already worked with limestone. This sedimentary rock is abundant, easy to cut, and incredibly adaptable—whether you’re building steps, garden walls, or accent columns.

Why Builders Love It:

  • Easy to shape and install
  • Has a clean, modern aesthetic
  • Holds up well in hot, dry climates
  • Works for structural and decorative applications

Bonus: The light color of limestone helps reflect heat, making it a smart pick for sunny spaces.

Where to Source:

For top-grade limestone, choose a stone supply partner that offers bulk options for both cut and chopped stones. Outdoor Warehouse Supply has been a go-to for custom limestone cuts—whether you’re after rough-face blocks or sawn slabs for clean edges.

3. Granite: The Heavy-Duty Option

Granite is the beast of building stone—dense, durable, and highly resistant to weathering. It’s not cheap, but when you need strength that lasts generations, it delivers.

Why Builders Love It:

  • Extremely hard and scratch-resistant
  • Low maintenance once sealed
  • Gorgeous natural grain and coloration
  • Ideal for columns, stairs, curbs, and monuments

Heads up: Because it’s so dense, granite can be tougher to cut and shape. It’s usually best left to specialized tools or suppliers that provide pre-cut pieces.

Where to Source:

Choose a supplier that’s well-versed in handling granite fabrication and transport. Look for pre-cut steps, edging, and curbing to save on install time. A seasoned stone supply company like Outdoor Warehouse Supply typically offers regional varieties with minimal lead times.

4. Sandstone: Texture Meets Warmth

Sandstone is a crowd-pleaser thanks to its warm tones and inviting feel. It’s softer than granite or quartzite but still holds up well in the right conditions.

Why Builders Love It:

  • Naturally textured with rich, earthy hues
  • Easy to work with—great for carving or shaping
  • Ideal for vertical cladding or garden walls
  • Ages beautifully over time

Builder’s Tip: Seal it regularly if used in high-moisture environments to prevent staining or erosion.

Where to Source:

Not every supplier stocks premium-grade sandstone in the textures or formats you’ll need. Work with a stone supply company that offers sandstone in both veneer and block form—ideally with options that match your project’s climate zone and visual goals.

5. Quartzite: The Stylish Powerhouse

Quartzite blends beauty and brawn like few other stones can. It’s formed under intense heat and pressure, giving it a marble-like appearance but with way more resilience.

Why Builders Love It:

  • Higher hardness than granite
  • Subtle sparkle and color variation
  • Resistant to etching and staining
  • Adds a high-end finish to outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and water features

Visual Tip: Quartzite often comes in shimmering whites, soft blues, or steel grays—perfect for modern or luxury builds.

Where to Source:

Since quartzite can be pricier, make sure your stone supplier offers slabs that are both visually consistent and pre-tested for durability. Companies like Outdoor Warehouse Supply typically provide samples and expert guidance to help you select the right stone for high-impact areas.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Stone, Build Smarter

Every material tells a story—and stone, with all its variation and history, can set the tone for an entire space. When you understand the strengths and best-use scenarios of each type, you’re not just building walls or pathways; you’re crafting experiences that last.

Choosing the right stone supply partner matters just as much. From sourcing premium limestone for a stately entryway to finding the perfect flagstone for a winding garden path, companies like Outdoor Warehouse Supply make it easy to get exactly what you need—on time, on budget, and without headaches.

🛠 Ready to Elevate Your Next Build?

Make smarter material decisions and take the stress out of sourcing. Explore Outdoor Warehouse Supply’s full catalog of natural and manufactured stone supply options to turn your ideas into solid craftsmanship.

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Media Contact:

Company Name: Outdoor Warehouse Supply

Phone: (972) 423-4001

Address: 1212 Municipal Ave

City: Plano

State: TX

ZIP Code: 75074

Country: United States

Website: https://www.outdoorwarehousesupply.com/plano-location/

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