Bluestone is a great and lovely natural stone that is blue, gray, and even brown at times. It is everybody’s favourite choice for the outdoors because it is pretty and long lasting. Used for patios, pathways, or Blue stone retaining walls , this stone brings charm and durability to any yard.
If you are considering bluestone use, you may be wondering, “How long does bluestone actually last?” That is a fantastic question! In this blog, we are going to discuss how long bluestone will last, how to maintain it, and why bluestone is one of the most popular landscaping options. We will also discuss if it cracks, changes colour, or tolerates heat.
How Durable is Bluestone walls?
Bluestone is one of the most durable stones used in outdoor construction. If Bluestone walls installed correctly and maintained well, it can last between 30 to 100 years—sometimes even longer!
That is why you will often see it in old homes, walkways, and walls that have stood the test of time.
This stone is strong enough to handle:
- Foot traffic – It does not wear down easily, even in busy areas.
- Weather conditions – It withstands rain, snow, sun, and freezing without disintegrating.
- Hard abuse – It is used commonly in driveways, steps, and patios.
In relation to other stones such as granite or limestone, bluestone provides an excellent combination of beauty and durability. It is less troublesome to work with than granite and more resistant than most types of limestone.
When applied to blue stone retaining walls, it serves to resist soil, contour your yard, and make lovely levels in your garden all while lasting for decades.
Does Bluestone walls Crack Easily?
Bluestone is durable, but as with all natural products, it can crack if it’s not properly installed.
The most typical causes of cracking are:
- A weak or unstable base under the stone.
- Heavy load on thin slabs of stone.
- Ground settling or freezing and thawing.
However, relax—there are easy ways to prevent this from occurring:
Get the base right: Ensure the ground beneath the stone is flat, firm, and solid.
Go thicker on the stone: Thicker slices are ideal for areas with a lot of pressure.
Seal the surface: A good sealant can keep the stone
safe from water, stains, and heat changes.
Due to its durability, bluestone finds extensive use in constructional works such as Blue stone retaining walls, where stones should remain strong for years.
Does Bluestone Change Colour Over Time?
Yes, bluestone does change colour gradually, particularly if used outdoors. This is natural weathering. After several years, you may see it losing some colour or developing rusty patches. This occurs because:
Rain and sunlight – These natural forces can subtly alter the colour.
Air exposure – Oxygen leads to the stone’s “oxidizing,” which can produce warm colours.
Application of sealers – Sealers may either preserve the colour or subtly alter it, depending on their type.
The finish on the surface of the stone also plays a role:
Thermal finish: This is smooth and more evenly coloured.
Natural cleft finish: It is coarser and has more colour shifts and texture.
Others prefer how the stone evolves over time—it makes it look like a naturally aged stone. To preserve the original colour, simply seal the stone often and clean it carefully.
Can Bluestone Be Power Washed?
Yes, you can power wash bluestone, but you must be cautious. Too much pressure may harm the surface or put tiny chips in the stone. Here are some precautions:
Use a pressure washer that has been set between 1,000 and 1,200 PSI.
Always use a fan tip nozzle rather than a thin one.
Clean a small area first to observe how the stone will respond.
Avoid using harsh chemicals. Use stone safe, pH-neutral cleaning products.
Clean the stone every year or two—more frequently if it is in a shaded or wet location.
Power washing is an excellent method to eliminate grime, moss, and stains, but avoid overdoing it. Excessive cleaning will erode the stone with time.
Does Bluestone Crack Under Heat
Bluestone is heat-resistant by nature, meaning it will not crack easily when heated. It is therefore ideal for outdoor spaces such as:
- Pool decks
- Fire pits
- Patios and grill stations
It will not melt, warp, or break with regular heat. However, if the bluestone is extremely thin or improperly installed, heat will still destroy it.
Here is how to keep it safe:
Utilize thicker sections of bluestone in high-heat zones.
Leave some space between stones to accommodate expansion.
Seal the stone to make it resistant to heat and extreme temperature changes.
Due to its excellent heat resistance, bluestone is ideal for sunny yards as well as spaces where you would like to incorporate fire features or grills. These tips will help to prevent wall failure.
Ideas for Best Bluestone Walls
Bluestone is perfect for more than floors. It also forms great, durable walls. You can construct. Here are 4 best blue stone retaining walls ideas.
- Garden walls
- Raised flower beds
- Outdoor seating
- Blue stone retaining walls
There are two primary methods for constructing with bluestone:
Dry-stack: Bluestone is stacked without the use of cement. This provides a natural, country appearance and enables water to seep through freely.
Mortared walls: Bluestone is bound by cement or mortar. These are more solid and can support greater weight.
For a breathtaking blend of form and function, Blue stone retaining walls are perfect for both sloping yard spaces and tiered garden beds. They create contours to the land, stand against erosion, and give your area a natural appearance.
Conclusion & Key Takeaways
Bluestone is a hard, gorgeous stone that can survive for generations if properly maintained. It is a popular choice for outdoor areas because it withstands weather, wear, and heat.
Here is the takeaway:
- Bluestone will survive 30–100 years if cared for.
- It won’t crack easily as long as it’s properly installed.
- It might change colour as the years go by, and this can be a blessing!
- You can power wash safely, but low pressure.
- It is heat-resistant and great for sunny, warm spaces.
- Blue stone retaining walls are long lasting and look amazing.
If you are ready to improve your outdoor space with Blue stone retaining walls , contact John Walters Landscaping. Our team can help you choose the best stone and design for your home—whether it is a patio, walkway, or Blue stone retaining walls.