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What’s Stone Cobble?

You can look up cobblestone on Wikipedia and get the whole “run-down”.  But basically I’m referring to the use of natural stone that is set in the ground to create a fitted, almost mosaic-like surface.

You might call this a “paver-surface” of sorts, but in the landscape we can also use stone cobble on sloped and even contoured grades.

Stone Cobble In The Landscape

I don’t know about you, but I think stone cobble is just beautiful.

And the real advantage to using this type of stonework is its functionality – or should I say multi-functionality. There’s no way in this one post I could illustrate all the uses I’ve come across for stone cobble.

As contractors we’ve all had the challenge of providing roadside parking on curbless streets.

There’s either an unattractive (often muddy) shoulder area or a nicely kept lawn – neither of which is great for driving or parking on.

Stone cobble offers an attractive and durable surface for parking and the everyday postal truck delivering mail. (See top pic)

Just Another Tool In The Design Toolbox

Shapes and lines in design add interest. Stone cobble is one of those malleable materials that can be arranged in endless shapes.

Stone cobble can be used to accommodate parking areas, pathways, drainage swales, and many other situations.

Like with everything else, quality construction is paramount, especially if it’s to be driven on. The base preparation is most important because it provides the strength that will insure a long lasting, durable surface.

The stones should be large enough that a good amount of their mass can be sunk into the base.

Care should be taken to arrange them thoughtfully so there are minimal spaces between joints and a pleasing mix of sizes & shapes.

In future posts I’ll show other interesting applications for stone cobble.

I’ll also show you manufactured, concrete paver products that are designed to look like natural cobble.

Some look pretty darn good and are efficient to install because of their uniform thickness.

2 Comments
  • Anonymous
    4:15 PM, 23 February 2007

    You didn’t say what the stones are or where you get them.

  • Roger
    9:45 AM, 24 February 2007

    In the picture are native fieldstone from here in northern NJ. You can get them by contacting local excavators, top soil producers and stone yards. There are other type stones that resemble this look and you should investigate those possibilities. One, for example, would be Delaware River Stones. They’re smoother, but give another nice look in this application.

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