Investing in Stone That Lasts
Choosing natural stone is more than a design decision, it’s an investment in your garden’s beauty and longevity. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a patio or a landscaper sourcing materials for a show garden, the right stone makes all the difference. At Caradon Stone, we specialise in Cornish slate and granite, both with unique qualities, textures, and best uses.
This guide will help you compare the two and make a confident choice.
Slate vs Granite: Key Differences
Finish & Texture
- Slate: Fine-grained, naturally split layers create a smooth, slightly riven surface. Ideal for sleek patios, wall cladding, or water features.
- Granite: Coarser texture with a crystalline structure, offering durability and striking sparkle in sunlight. Perfect for steps, driveways, or feature boulders.
Durability
- Slate: Strong yet slightly softer than granite, making it easier to cut for paving and decorative features.
- Granite: Among the hardest natural stones, resistant to heavy traffic, frost, and weathering—excellent for high-use areas.
Best Uses in the Garden
- Slate: Contemporary patios, edging, water features, garden walls, and stepping stones.
- Granite: Driveways, steps, retaining walls, kerbs, or statement landscaping pieces such as Japanese water features.
Appearance Over Time
- Slate: Develops a mellow patina that blends seamlessly with natural planting, particularly in shaded or woodland gardens.
- Granite: Maintains its crisp edges and distinctive sparkle even after decades of exposure, making it ideal for statement features.
Buying Tips for Garden Projects
- Think About Footfall – Choose granite for driveways or steps where wear is heavy; slate is perfect for low-traffic patios.
- Match Colours to Planting – Slate’s grey tones complement grasses, lavenders, and silvery foliage. Granite’s warmer hues suit vibrant planting schemes with reds and golds.
- Consider Texture – Slate’s riven surface offers slip resistance with a refined look, while granite’s flamed finish is both tactile and rugged.
- Plan for Longevity – Both stones age beautifully, but granite is virtually indestructible for structural elements.
- Sample First – Always order a small piece to see how the stone interacts with your planting, architecture, and light.
- Think About Climate – In damp or shaded gardens, slate blends beautifully into the environment, while granite excels in exposed, weathered landscapes.
Why Choose Your Stone with Caradon Stone?
- Cornish Provenance – All our stone is quarried and crafted in Cornwall.
- Sustainable Sourcing – We prioritise reclamation, recycling, and a carbon-neutral future.
- Expert Support – Our geologist-led team helps landscapers and homeowners select the right material for every project.
Both slate and granite are excellent choices for gardens, but each has its place. Slate brings subtle elegance, while granite delivers strength and grandeur. With the right choice, and the right supplier, you’ll create a landscape that endures for generations. Speak to our team today for support with your project.
02 Oct 2025
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Where quality meets sustainability
Our in-house experts, including a qualified geologist, can assist with matching and technical guidance. Trust us to source and deliver the perfect stone for your project.