Difference Between Fieldstone & Flagstone

Difference Between Fieldstone & Flagstone
Written By
Janet Bayers
Janet Bayers
Published: Mar 30, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Rough Fieldstone

Fieldstone complements a natural environment.

Fieldstones are stones found above ground. Their attractiveness lies in their natural look. They aren’t quarried but are byproducts of glacial action or rock outcroppings from which loose stones have fallen. Color and size vary with locale.

Smooth Flagstone

Flagstones offer a smooth, regular walking surface.

Flagstones are flat, quarried sedimentary rock slabs. Bluestone and limestone are two common kinds. The rocks sometimes are further honed by sandblasting or polishing and can vary in weather-resistance and water-absorption properties.

Different Uses

Mixing fieldstone and flagstone yields a unique look.

Flagstones provide a flatter, more even walking surface, so they’re often chosen for patios or steps. Fieldstones have rougher surfaces and irregular shapes, often with rounded edges, and look appropriate around ponds or used as natural focal points in a garden. They’re also a good choice for dry-stacked walls.

The Drip Cap

  • Fieldstone and flagstone are two types of rock used in landscapes.
  • Fieldstones are stones found above ground.
  • Fieldstones have rougher surfaces and irregular shapes, often with rounded edges, and look appropriate around ponds or used as natural focal points in a garden.

Photo Credits

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Janet Bayers

Since 1981 Janet Bayers has written on travel, real estate trends and gardening for "The Oregonian" newspaper in Portland. Her work also has appeared in “Better Homes & Gardens,” “Traditional Home,” “Outdoor Living” and other shelter…

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