Limestone vs. Rundle Stone: Choosing the Right Rock for Your Landscaping Project

Selecting the right stone for your landscaping project can make a significant difference in the overall look, feel, and longevity of your outdoor space. The right stone not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also ensures ease of maintenance. Whether you’re planning to build a charming garden pathway, an inviting patio, or a robust retaining wall, selecting the appropriate stone is crucial. Limestone and Rundle Rock are two popular choices that offer distinct advantages and unique characteristics.

Understanding the differences between these two materials will help you make an informed decision that meets your landscaping needs. In this article, Soil Kings will provide a comprehensive comparison between limestone and Rundle stone to help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each stone, ensuring that your landscape not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time. Let’s dive into the specifics to help you choose the right material for your upcoming projects.

What is Limestone?

Limestone is a sedimentary rock primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). It forms from the accumulation of organic debris such as shells, coral, and algal fragments, or through the chemical precipitation of calcium carbonate. Its colour ranges from white to gray, but it can also appear in shades of brown and pink depending on its mineral content.

Types of Limestone

Crushed Limestone: This is one of the most common types of limestone used in landscaping. It’s produced by crushing larger pieces of limestone rock into smaller aggregates. Crushed limestone is versatile and used for various applications, including as a base material for patios and walkways, or as a decorative element in garden beds.

Limestone Pavers: These are cut and shaped pieces of limestone used for creating walkways, driveways, and patios. Limestone pavers are valued for their aesthetic appeal and natural texture, providing a rustic and elegant look to outdoor spaces.

Limestone Slabs: Larger, flat pieces of limestone are used in construction and landscaping for creating stepping stones, garden borders, or retaining walls. They are durable and offer a more substantial appearance than smaller crushed limestone.

Limestone Chippings: Small, decorative stones used for pathways, driveways, and as a ground cover. They provide a clean, finished look and are easy to maintain.

What is Rundle Rock?

Rundle Rock, also known as Rundle Stone, is a type of fine-grained sandstone predominantly found in the Canadian Rockies. Rundle Rock offers both aesthetic beauty and practical benefits for outdoor spaces. This unique stone is known for its rich, dark colour palette, primarily featuring shades of black, grey, and charcoal, with occasional hints of blue and rust. Its natural texture and durability make it ideal for various landscaping applications.

What Makes Rundle Rock Special?

Rundle Rock stands out for its distinct look and versatility. Unlike lighter stones such as limestone, Rundle Rock’s dark, neutral tones allow it to blend well with a variety of landscape designs. It adds a contemporary feel to gardens, pathways, and outdoor spaces while maintaining a rustic charm, making it popular in both modern and traditional landscaping projects.

Rundle Rock is also highly durable. It is a type of sandstone, meaning it has excellent weather resistance and can handle the freeze-thaw cycles common in Canadian climates. This makes it a long-lasting option for outdoor installations like walkways, retaining walls, and decorative features.

Physical Characteristics of Limestone vs Rundle Rock in Landscaping

Appearance

Limestone: Limestone is known for its natural, earthy tones and diverse colour variations. It can range from soft creams and light grays to deeper shades of tan and brown. Its texture varies from smooth to slightly rough, depending on the processing and type of limestone. This variability in appearance allows limestone to blend seamlessly with various landscaping styles, from traditional to contemporary.

Rundle Rock: Rundle Rock, in contrast, typically offers dark and dramatic tones, often in shades of black, charcoal, and deep gray. Its natural split-face finish gives it a rugged texture, adding character to outdoor spaces. While not as smooth as limestone, the rich colour palette of Rundle Rock makes it ideal for creating striking, modern designs. Its distinct appearance, combined with its irregular shapes, provides a unique look that enhances the visual interest of any landscaping project.

Durability

Limestone: Limestone is generally durable but tends to be softer compared to Rundle Rock. This can make it susceptible to scratching and chipping, especially in high-traffic areas. Its weather resistance is moderate; while it can withstand typical weather conditions, it may not perform as well in extreme climates or freeze-thaw cycles. Over time, limestone can develop a patina or wear down, particularly if not properly sealed and maintained. Its longevity in landscaping applications is impressive but requires regular upkeep to preserve its appearance and structural integrity.

Rundle Rock: Rundle Rock is renowned for its durability, particularly in outdoor settings. It’s more resistant to chipping and cracking compared to limestone, making it a great option for high-traffic areas or regions with fluctuating weather conditions. The rock’s ability to withstand freeze-thaw cycles without significant deterioration makes it an excellent choice for colder climates. Its robust nature ensures that Rundle Rock will maintain its structural integrity and appearance for many years with minimal maintenance.

Porosity and Water Absorption

Limestone: One of limestone’s notable characteristics is its porosity. Being a sedimentary rock, limestone has small pores that can absorb water. This can lead to issues such as staining, mould growth, and erosion if the stone is not sealed properly. The water absorption rate of limestone can vary depending on its type and finish, but it generally requires regular sealing to prevent moisture-related damage. In landscaping applications, this means that limestone may need more frequent maintenance to ensure it remains in good condition.

Rundle Rock: Rundle Rock, by comparison, has a much lower porosity than limestone. Rundle Rock’s natural properties make it less absorbent, meaning it doesn’t suffer from the same moisture-related issues that limestone might. This lower porosity results in better resistance to water damage and staining, reducing the need for regular sealing. However, occasional maintenance is still recommended to ensure its long-term durability, especially in wetter environments.

Cost Comparison

Initial Cost

When considering initial costs, limestone generally falls into a lower price range compared to Rundle Rock. Limestone’s cost can vary based on its quality, colour, and pattern, with standard types being more affordable than decorative or rare varieties. Rundle Rock, on the other hand, can be slightly more expensive due to its durability and unique appearance, but it still remains a cost-effective option for landscaping when compared to premium stones.

Installation Costs

The installation of limestone tends to be less complex and, therefore, less costly. This is partly because limestone is softer and easier to handle, which simplifies the installation process.

Rundle Rock, being harder and often irregularly shaped, may require more precision during installation, which can slightly raise labour costs. However, the end result is a distinct, natural-looking landscape that is worth the additional effort, especially for those seeking a unique outdoor design.

Maintenance Costs

Maintaining limestone and Rundle Rock involves ongoing costs that should be factored into the total investment. Limestone, while generally less expensive to maintain, requires regular sealing to protect against moisture absorption and staining. Limestone is porous, making it susceptible to water damage and discolouration if not properly sealed.

Rundle Rock, on the other hand, is less porous and resistant to water damage, making its maintenance simpler and less frequent. Its rugged surface and natural resilience make it easy to maintain with occasional cleaning and sealing, which helps preserve its aesthetic and structural properties over time.

Limestone vs Rundle Stone Applications in Landscaping

Limestone Applications in Landscaping

1. Patios: Limestone is a popular choice for patios due to its natural beauty and versatility. Available in a variety of colours and textures, limestone can enhance the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces. Its ability to be cut into various shapes and sizes allows for creative and customized patio designs. Limestone patios are not only visually pleasing but also durable, capable of withstanding foot traffic and weather conditions. The stone’s natural colour variations and patterns add character to any patio, creating a warm and inviting outdoor area.
   
   
2. Walkways: Limestone is also commonly used for walkways and pathways. Its slip-resistant surface makes it a safe choice for high-traffic areas. Limestone’s natural texture provides a non-slippery surface even when wet, which is ideal for garden paths or walkways leading to entryways. Additionally, limestone can be laid in a variety of patterns and designs, allowing for a personalized touch. The stone’s porous nature means it can also help with water drainage, reducing puddling on walkways.

3. Garden Borders: Using limestone for garden borders helps define and organize garden spaces. Its natural and earthy appearance blends seamlessly with plantings and landscaping features. Limestone edging can be used to create clean lines between different garden areas or to outline flower beds. The stone’s durability ensures that garden borders remain intact and visually appealing over time. Additionally, limestone’s ability to withstand the elements makes it a practical choice for long-lasting garden boundaries

Rundle Rock Applications in Landscaping

1. Pathways and Patios: One of the most popular uses of Rundle Rock in landscaping is for pathways and patios. Its natural cleft surface provides a non-slip texture, making it a safe option for outdoor walking areas. The large, flat slabs can be easily fitted together to create seamless, elegant pathways, or used as stepping stones in garden spaces.

2. Retaining Walls: Rundle Rock is frequently used for retaining walls due to its structural integrity and ability to support large amounts of soil. The stone’s natural durability allows it to withstand pressure from soil and moisture over time, making it an ideal material for retaining walls that need to prevent erosion. Its irregular shapes and rich, dark tones give retaining walls a distinctive, rugged appearance, blending seamlessly with the natural environment. Rundle Rock retaining walls offer both functionality and a visually striking element to the landscape.

3. Water Features: Rundle Rock is a popular choice for water features such as ponds, waterfalls, and rock gardens. Its resistance to moisture and weathering makes it suitable for outdoor water features that are exposed to the elements. The rough texture and deep shades of Rundle Rock create a natural and calming aesthetic, perfect for integrating into water features that emphasize a more organic or rustic look. Rundle Rock’s ability to maintain its structure and appearance even when exposed to water ensures that these features remain a stunning focal point in the landscape for many years.

4. Decorative Accents: Rundle Rock’s rugged texture and rich colour make it perfect for use as a decorative element. It can be used as standalone boulders in a garden, added to rock gardens, or used as accent pieces around trees and shrubs to enhance the natural feel of the space.

Maintenance and Longevity of Limestone vs. Rundle Rock in Landscaping

Limestone Maintenance

Cleaning: Limestone, being a porous sedimentary rock, requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance and durability. To clean limestone, use a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft brush or mop. Harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners, such as vinegar, can erode the surface and should be avoided. For stains, a poultice made from baking soda and water can help absorb and lift the stain. It’s crucial to clean spills promptly to prevent staining and maintain the stone’s natural beauty.

Sealing: Due to its porous nature, limestone needs to be sealed to prevent water infiltration and staining. Sealing helps to fill the pores and create a protective barrier. It is generally recommended to apply a penetrating sealer every 1-2 years, depending on the stone’s usage and exposure to the elements. This will help in maintaining the stone’s integrity and appearance over time.

General Upkeep: Regular maintenance includes removing debris, such as leaves or dirt, that can trap moisture and lead to mould or mildew growth. Ensure that water does not pool on the surface, as excessive moisture can lead to deterioration. For high-traffic areas, periodic resealing may be required to keep the stone in top condition.

Rundle Rock Maintenance

Cleaning: Rundle Rock, being denser and less porous than limestone, is relatively easy to maintain. It can be cleaned using water and a mild detergent, along with a soft brush or sponge. The rough surface of Rundle Rock tends to hide dirt and grime, but regular cleaning helps maintain its natural, rugged appearance. Abrasive cleaners should be avoided to preserve its texture, and for tougher stains, a mix of water and baking soda can be applied.

Sealing: While Rundle Rock is naturally resistant to moisture and stains, sealing is still recommended to preserve its look and prevent water absorption in very wet environments. A penetrating sealer applied every 2-3 years is generally sufficient to protect the stone and enhance its longevity in landscaping applications. Sealing helps ensure the rock maintains its rich tones and natural texture over time.

General Upkeep: Like limestone, Rundle Rock benefits from regular removal of debris like leaves and dirt that can accumulate on the surface. Its naturally rough texture makes it less prone to wear and erosion, but it’s still important to keep water from pooling, as excessive moisture can lead to staining or moss growth. Occasional resealing in high-traffic or water-exposed areas will help prolong the rock’s natural beauty.

Longevity

Limestone: The longevity of limestone in landscaping projects can vary based on several factors, including the stone’s quality, the climate, and the level of maintenance. Generally, with proper care, limestone can last several decades. However, in regions with high moisture or extreme weather conditions, limestone may show signs of wear and erosion more quickly. Factors like acid rain or frequent exposure to water can accelerate the stone’s deterioration. Choosing a high-quality limestone and adhering to a regular maintenance routine can significantly extend its lifespan.

Rundle Rock: Rundle Rock is known for its durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Its dense, rugged nature makes it resistant to wear, cracking, and weathering, especially in outdoor settings. Even in regions with freeze-thaw cycles or heavy foot traffic, Rundle Rock can last for decades with minimal maintenance. The stone’s ability to resist moisture and its inherent strength ensure that it remains an attractive, functional material for landscaping over the long term, making it a solid choice for those seeking longevity.

When choosing between limestone and Rundle Rock, consider the specific requirements of your project. For projects that demand durability and a rugged, natural look, such as driveways or retaining walls, Rundle Rock is an excellent choice due to its strength and low maintenance needs. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a softer, classic appearance for less demanding areas, limestone may be the better fit. Both materials offer unique advantages, so your decision should be based on the functional demands and aesthetic goals of your landscaping project, as well as your budget.

At Soil Kings, we provide a wide selection of premium aggregate products to suit your landscaping needs. For projects requiring a smooth, refined finish, our 10mm Limestone Fines and 10mm Rundle Fines are ideal for pathways. If you need versatile, mid-sized stones, we offer 20mm and 40mm Limestone, as well as 25mm and 40mm Rundle Rock, both of which add a natural, durable touch to any landscape. For larger, decorative applications, our 50-90mm Rundle Rock is perfect for ground cover or flowerbeds, offering stability and a striking, dark charcoal hue. Contact us today to discuss your project and get expert advice on the best stone for your outdoor space. Let Soil Kings help you achieve stunning results with our top-quality limestone and rundle rock products.