Patio Stones Somteimes called flags or slabs, patio stones are flat square or rectangular blocks of pressed concrete. Standard sizes generally include 2' x 2', 2' x 2½' and 2' x 3' (60 x 60 cm; 60 x 75 cm; 60 x 90 cm), with a 2" (5 cm) thickness. They are a very well-known and popular choice for both homeowners and home builders and are favored both for their ease of installation and low price.

Once only grey or greyer, patio stones are now available in a range of colors. Choose a color that blends with your garden or house, or make a patterned floor with two different colors. Patio stones are especially attractive when combined with an edging of a contrasting material. On my web site, I have some suggested patterns combining them with bricks, but you can use a rot-resistant wood such as cedar, landscape rocks, or even aluminum.

You can also purchase patio stones with different surface textures, including those with exposed aggregates. Although these often retain characteristically consistent thickness that makes for their ease of installation, they are usually somewhat pricier than plain stones.

Stone and Slate Stone and slate, also called flagstone, are natural materials whose availability is often driven by local resources. They are also usually cut in standard widths and lengths, but thickness of pieces will vary with stone and cutting. The variable thickness makes material more challenging to install. Natural stone and slate pieces are more expensive than manufactured patio stones.