When planning a high-end outdoor living space, few materials carry the architectural prestige of bluestone. Known for its dense composition and striking color palette, it has become a staple for homeowners and builders alike who are looking to create a lasting impression. With so many types of stone flooring to choose from, understanding the investment required is the first step in turning a design vision into a reality—and can help you recognize why bluestone pavers are an ideal selection.
Defining the Material: What Is Bluestone?
To understand the cost, one must first understand the value of the stone itself. So, what is bluestone exactly? Historically, this term refers to a specific type of feldspathic sandstone quarried primarily in the northeastern United States. It is prized for its fine grain and exceptional density, which makes it significantly more resistant to the freeze-thaw cycles common in the Oklahoma climate compared to softer alternatives.
The stone is characterized by its unique color spectrum. While the name suggests a singular blue hue, natural bluestone actually features a sophisticated mix of blues, grays, greens, and even occasional lilac or rust tones. This variety is what gives the material its natural, organic feel, ensuring that no two stones look exactly alike.
Factors That Influence Bluestone Pricing
Not all bluestone is created equal. Several variables determine where your project will fall on the pricing spectrum:
1. The Finish of the Stone
The way the stone is processed significantly impacts the price per square foot.
- Natural Cleft: This is typically the most cost-effective option. The stone is split along its natural layers, resulting in a textured, slightly uneven surface that provides excellent slip resistance.
- Thermal (Flamed): This finish is usually more expensive. The stone is saw-cut and then treated with a high-temperature flame, which causes the surface to pop and creates a uniform, smooth, yet non-slip texture.
2. Color Consistency
Bluestone is typically sold in two color categories. “Full Range” includes the entire spectrum of natural colors and is generally more affordable. “Select Blue” is a premium grade where the stones are hand-sorted to ensure a consistent, solid blue-gray color throughout the entire batch, which often commands a higher price.
3. Size and Pattern
Large-format pavers or custom-cut patterns (such as a French pattern) require more labor at the quarry and during installation. Standard rectangular sizes are typically more budget-friendly than irregular shapes or oversized slabs.
Because so many factors influence the price of bluestone pavers, speaking with your local stone supplier about pricing is recommended. They can provide you with insight into their specific prices, as well as assistance in choosing the right quantity for your project.
Bluestone vs. Other Types of Stone Flooring
When comparing bluestone to other types of stone flooring, it is important to look beyond the initial, face-value investment and consider long-term performance. One of the hidden advantages of bluestone is its exceptional ability to conceal stains, scuffs, and everyday wear. Because of its variegated, multi-toned surface and natural texture, it is incredibly forgiving in high-traffic outdoor environments.
| Stone Type | Durability Level | Stain & Wear Concealment | Maintenance Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluestone | High (Freeze-Thaw Resistant) | Excellent (Variegated tones mask dirt/spills) | Low (Occasional sweeping) |
| Marble | High | Poor (Prone to etching and visible scratching) | High (Frequent sealing required) |
| Travertine | Moderate (Heat Resistant) | Moderate (Pores can trap debris if unsealed) | Moderate (Requires pore cleaning) |
| Granite | High | Good (Dense, but uniform colors show surface dust) | Low (Scratch-resistant) |
As seen above, bluestone offers a distinct “sweet spot” when it comes to low-maintenance living. While lighter, uniform stones easily showcase muddy footprints, leaf stains, or backyard spills, the organic color blending of bluestone keeps your outdoor space looking pristine with only minimal effort needed.
Planning Your Oklahoma Stone Patio
For residents in the Oklahoma City area, selecting a flooring material that can handle intense summer heat and sudden winter shifts is critical. An Oklahoma stone patio built with bluestone offers a unique advantage: thermal performance. Despite its density and darker color profile, natural bluestone stays relatively comfortable underfoot compared to manufactured concrete pavers, which tend to absorb and hold more heat.
When budgeting for an outdoor space, remember that the “total cost” includes more than just the stone. Site excavation, drainage solutions, and the base material (usually a combination of crushed rock and sand) are all essential components of a stable, long-lasting installation. Professional masonry work ensures that the stone remains level and secure for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the cost of natural stone helps ensure a worry-free project. Here are the answers to common questions regarding bluestone investments.
How does bluestone handle the Oklahoma weather?
Bluestone is one of the most durable options for an Oklahoma stone patio. Its density prevents the flaking (spalling) that often affects softer sedimentary rocks when water gets trapped and freezes inside the stone.
Can bluestone be used indoors?
Absolutely. Due to its precision-sawn thickness (typically 1” to 1.5”), it is an excellent choice for interior mudrooms, entryways, or commercial lobbies that require a slip-resistant and heavy-duty floor.
Elevate Your Home With Richburg Stone
At Richburg Stone, we understand that a thoughtfully crafted landscape feature is more than just a backyard addition—it is a foundation for memories. Since 1932, we have been providing the Oklahoma City community with the highest grade of natural building materials. We take the guesswork out of the process by managing the logistics from the quarry directly to your job site.
We maintain a vast inventory of premium stone, including bluestone, strategically stocked and ready for immediate delivery. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate the different finishes and sizes to find the perfect fit for your budget and aesthetic. Whether you are a homeowner embarking on a DIY project or a contractor managing a commercial build, you can rely on our 90-year legacy of quality and service.
Ready to see the stone in person? Visit our showroom to explore our sample panels and discuss your project with our staff.
