How to choose the right architectural stone for your project
Natural stone is an attractive and durable material, which is why it’s so popular for both commercial and domestic building projects. However, to make sure you get the right look and feel, alongside the essential structural requirements, you need to make sure to choose the right architectural stone.
In this guide, we’ll explain what you need to ponder when choosing architectural stone for your project, and why.
Functional requirements
The required function of the stone is the most significant consideration. Different design elements require specific architectural stone properties to ensure a safe, functional outcome.
For example, masonry stone for a window surround or load-bearing column needs to support a lot of weight. External cladding must be weatherproof and able to be cut into thin slabs, and natural stone for internal flooring should be durable and easy to maintain.
The aesthetics of natural stone
It’s crucial to decide how you want the finished project to look when narrowing down your choice of architectural stone. The colour, patterning and presence of any inclusions can change the overall style and aesthetic appeal.
This is particularly important if you’re working on a restoration project and need to integrate new stone with the existing stone. When the original stone can’t be sourced, a suitable alternative must match or complement the existing style.
Desired stone finish
Not all types of stone are suitable for particular finishes. Whether you’re looking for an intricately carved design, a smooth, polished finish or a rustic, weathered effect, you might find limitations in the architectural stone you can choose.
Our Clipsham limestone is highly versatile and can be finished in a variety of different ways; this allows you to use the same material for a consistent look and feel throughout the project without compromising on your design vision.
Project budget
Different types of architectural stone vary in price. However, this doesn’t always mean that a particular choice is completely off the table. You might be able to opt for cladding rather than block stone, allowing you to keep costs down while still benefiting from the stone’s visual and tactile appeal.
Along with the cost of the stone, you need to assess the transport and delivery costs. The geographical location of the stone supplier may be a factor here, as the further away they have to deliver the stone, the more costly it may be.
Stone availability
Your project timeline can impact your final decision. While some can keep large quantities of stone products on hand, your options may be limited if you’re working to a tight deadline. As the exclusive global supplier of Clipsham limestone, we can guarantee reserves for the next 900 years.
For bespoke stone sizes, the wait time can be a factor, as some architectural stone companies only keep standard sizes in stock.
Choose the right architectural stone company
Once you’ve decided on the stone for your project, you need to make sure you choose the right architectural stone company to supply it. Not all stone is the same, and limestone sourced from one location can vary in quality and bed size, which can limit your options. You might also want to consider the company’s sustainability policy to minimise the project’s environmental impact.
Take a look at our guide to sourcing natural stone for contract work for everything you need to take into account when deciding which company to work with.
Work with Stamford Stone
If you’re looking for an architectural stone company that can supply high-quality, ethically quarried natural stone, talk to Stamford Stone. Whether you know exactly what you want or you need advice from our expert team, we are happy to help.