Resources

Plan Your Project

At Old Station, we know that a successful project starts with the right plan. Whether you choose to browse by category, or use our quick links, finding the right resources has never been easier.

Welcome to Our Blog!

Here, you’ll discover a wealth of articles spanning numerous topics, carefully curated to guide you through every step of your project journey. Our expert guides and planning tools help ensure your outdoor space turns out just the way you envision.

What to Know About Stone Veneer Cultured Stone

Stone veneer cultured stone combines the timeless beauty of natural stone with modern durability and affordability. Perfect for interiors, exteriors, and fireplaces, it offers a lightweight design that’s easy to install and low-maintenance. Available in a wide range of textures and colors, cultured stone veneer from Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply lets you create elegant, long-lasting designs that suit any style, from rustic to contemporary, without the high cost of natural stone.

Cultured Stone Guide: Benefits, Costs and Installation Tips

Cultured stone offers the charm of natural stone with added practicality, making it a favorite for homeowners and designers across Massachusetts. Available at Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, this durable, lightweight veneer enhances fireplaces, facades, and interiors with timeless beauty and easy installation. Combining affordability, versatility, and eco-friendly production, cultured stone delivers lasting style and performance for any residential or commercial project.

Why Does Salt Melt Ice? The Science Explained

Salt melts ice through a process called freezing point depression. When salt is applied to ice, it dissolves into sodium and chloride ions that interfere with the ability of water molecules to bond and freeze. This lowers the freezing point of water, allowing ice to melt even when temperatures are below 32°F. The resulting saltwater, or brine, prevents refreezing and accelerates melting. While sodium chloride works best between 15°F and 25°F, alternatives like calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are more effective in colder conditions. Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply provides salt and eco-friendly de-icers for safe winter surfaces.

Ice Melt Salt: How It Works and Its Environmental Impact

Ice melt salt is one of the most effective tools for clearing icy driveways, sidewalks, and roads. It works by lowering the freezing point of water, helping to melt ice and prevent refreezing. Common types include sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and magnesium chloride, each offering different performance levels in various temperatures. While effective, salt can damage vegetation, concrete, and waterways if overused. For safer results, eco-friendly options like calcium magnesium acetate or sand can reduce environmental impact. Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply offers high-quality ice melt salts and green alternatives to keep winter surfaces safe.

Does Sand Melt Ice? Learn The Effectiveness and Alternatives

Does sand melt ice? The short answer is no. Sand doesn’t melt ice but helps improve traction on slippery surfaces, making walkways, driveways, and roads safer in winter. By adding friction, sand reduces the risk of slips and falls, but it won’t change the ice’s temperature or cause it to melt. For effective ice control, materials like salt, calcium chloride, or eco-friendly de-icers work better. Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply offers sand-salt mixtures that combine traction and melting power for safer, more efficient winter maintenance.

Hardscaping Services for Your Outdoor Space

Transform your yard into a functional and stylish outdoor living space with professional hardscaping services from Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply. Serving homeowners and contractors across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, we provide top-quality materials and expert design support for patios, walkways, fire pits, retaining walls, and more. Our hardscaping solutions combine durability, beauty, and practicality to create outdoor environments built to last. Visit our showroom or contact us today to explore premium materials and expert guidance for your next hardscape project.

Hardscape Contractors: What They Do and How to Hire One

Hardscape contractors design and build the solid features of outdoor spaces such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls. They combine technical skill and design expertise to create durable, functional, and attractive landscapes. Hiring a certified professional ensures proper drainage, stability, and long-term value. Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply provides top-quality materials and expert advice to help contractors and homeowners achieve exceptional results.

What Is Hardscaping? Definition, Types, and Benefits

Hardscaping includes the non-living features of outdoor spaces such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls that add structure, durability, and style. These elements require little maintenance, improve property value, and enhance how you use your yard. Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply provides quality materials and expert guidance to help you create lasting and beautiful hardscapes.

Modern Residential Landscape Design: Timeless Outdoor Living

Modern residential landscape design combines structure, simplicity, and function to create outdoor spaces that feel timeless and refined. Clean lines, balanced geometry, and durable materials like granite, bluestone, and porcelain define this style, offering both beauty and performance through New England’s changing seasons. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we help homeowners and contractors design modern landscapes that complement their homes while standing up to local weather. From patios and pathways to lighting and custom stone fabrication, our expert team provides the materials and guidance needed to build lasting, low-maintenance outdoor living spaces.

Residential Landscaping with Boulders: Expert Tips

Using residential landscaping with boulders adds timeless beauty, structure, and texture to any outdoor space. Boulders bring natural character to gardens, patios, and slopes while improving drainage and preventing erosion. Whether used as focal points, retaining features, or pathway accents, they blend seamlessly with New England’s rugged terrain and seasonal changes. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide durable granite, bluestone, and fieldstone, along with expert guidance to help homeowners and contractors design stunning, long-lasting landscapes across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

Residential Landscaping Design Features for Outdoor Space

Well-planned residential landscaping design features bring together beauty, function, and lasting performance for every season. By blending hardscape elements like patios, retaining walls, and outdoor kitchens with softscape details such as native plants and seasonal color, homeowners can create outdoor spaces that feel both elegant and practical. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide premium materials and expert guidance to help you design landscapes that enhance curb appeal, comfort, and long-term value across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

Natural Stone Retaining Wall: Costs, Design and Tips

A natural stone retaining wall combines lasting strength with timeless beauty, making it a popular choice for enhancing outdoor spaces. It not only prevents soil erosion but also adds structure, style, and value to your landscape. Each wall features authentic stones such as granite, bluestone, or fieldstone, creating a natural look that blends seamlessly into New England settings. With proper design, drainage, and installation, these walls can last for decades while improving both function and appearance. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide premium natural stone materials and expert support to help homeowners and contractors build durable, elegant retaining walls that stand the test of time.

Natural Stone Flooring: Types, Costs and Maintenance Resource

Natural stone flooring combines beauty, durability, and timeless appeal, making it one of the most sought-after materials for homes and outdoor spaces. Each stone tile has its own color, pattern, and texture, creating a unique look that enhances any environment. From granite and marble to slate and bluestone, every option offers distinct benefits in strength, style, and maintenance. While natural stone flooring requires more care and comes with a higher upfront cost, its longevity and elegance make it a valuable investment. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we help homeowners and contractors choose the perfect natural stone flooring to match their design and performance needs.

Natural Stone Countertops: Types, Costs, and Care Guide

Natural stone countertops offer a blend of beauty, durability, and timeless style, making them a top choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. Each slab features unique patterns and colors that bring character and elegance to any home. Whether you prefer the strength of granite, the luxury of marble, or the natural charm of soapstone, every material has its own advantages and care requirements. With proper sealing, cleaning, and professional installation, natural stone countertops from Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply can last for decades while enhancing your home’s value and appeal.

Fireplace Surround Ideas: Top Styles, Materials, and Tips

A fireplace surround is more than just a decorative frame. It protects your walls from heat while transforming your fireplace into a stunning focal point. From sleek modern designs with marble or concrete to rustic surrounds made of reclaimed wood or stone, there are endless styles to suit any home. Eco-friendly options such as recycled stone and porcelain pavers make it easy to combine beauty with sustainability. Whether you choose a DIY project or opt for custom stone fabrication, the right surround enhances your living space, adds value to your home, and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.

Outdoor Fireplace and Grill Combo: Top Picks for Backyard

An outdoor fireplace and grill combo is the ultimate backyard upgrade, combining warmth, style, and functionality in one space-saving feature. Perfect for year-round use, it creates a cozy gathering spot during cooler months while doubling as a versatile cooking station for summer barbecues. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of wood-burning designs or the convenience of gas-fired options, these dual-purpose units bring comfort and efficiency to your outdoor living area. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we offer premium materials and expert guidance to help you design an outdoor fireplace and grill that fits your space, enhances your landscape, and elevates every backyard gathering.

Best Outdoor Fireplace Ideas to Elevate Your Backyard

Outdoor fireplaces add warmth, beauty, and functionality to any backyard, creating a cozy focal point for gatherings year-round. From traditional stone fireplaces that bring rustic charm to sleek gas designs that offer modern convenience, there are countless ways to elevate your outdoor space. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide high-quality materials like granite, bluestone, and veneer to help you achieve a design that matches your style and withstands the elements. Whether you envision a wood-burning hearth, a freestanding centerpiece, or a double-sided fireplace that connects multiple zones, the right design transforms your backyard into a welcoming retreat.

What is Commercial Landscaping? Benefits, Types, and Tips

What is commercial landscaping? It’s the professional design, installation, and maintenance of outdoor spaces for businesses, combining hardscaping features like walkways, patios, and retaining walls with softscaping elements such as trees, shrubs, and native plants to create attractive, functional, and sustainable environments; by enhancing curb appeal, improving employee well-being, and reducing long-term costs with eco-friendly practices like efficient irrigation and rainwater harvesting, commercial landscaping not only boosts property value but also strengthens brand image, and at Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide premium materials, expert guidance, and reliable services to help businesses create inviting, eco-conscious landscapes that leave a lasting impression.

What Is Commercial Landscape Design? Benefits and Tips

What is commercial landscape design? It’s a strategic approach to planning, building, and maintaining outdoor spaces for businesses that goes far beyond planting trees or adding decorative elements—combining hardscaping features like walkways, retaining walls, and seating areas with softscaping elements such as trees, shrubs, and native plants to create attractive, functional, and sustainable environments; when done well, commercial landscape design improves curb appeal, strengthens client impressions, boosts employee morale, and even reduces long-term costs through energy-efficient practices like green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and eco-friendly materials, and at Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide the expertise and premium hardscaping products needed to help businesses design outdoor spaces that reflect their brand and deliver lasting value.

How to Get Commercial Landscaping Estimates Automatically?

Learning how to get commercial landscaping estimates automatically can save contractors and property managers significant time while improving accuracy, reducing errors, and streamlining project management; instead of relying on manual spreadsheets that are prone to mistakes and outdated pricing, automated estimating software uses real-time data for materials like granite pavers, stone veneer, and concrete products, while also calculating labor and equipment costs, allowing landscapers to generate professional bids in minutes; at Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we not only provide premium hardscaping materials but also guide businesses in Newton and beyond on choosing the right tools and practices to automate their estimating process, helping you deliver reliable, cost-effective landscaping projects at scale.

Modern Patio Pavers: Top Materials & Design Tips

Transforming your backyard starts with choosing the right modern patio pavers, which combine durability, versatility, and sleek design to create a stunning outdoor living space. From low-maintenance porcelain and budget-friendly concrete to timeless granite and bluestone, today’s pavers offer endless options in colors, textures, and patterns to match any style, whether you prefer minimalist lines or a more natural look. Modern patio pavers not only enhance aesthetics but also ensure long-lasting performance against weather and heavy use. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide premium paver materials and expert guidance to help you design and build a beautiful, functional patio that elevates your outdoor lifestyle for years to come.

Pavers for Pool Deck: Best Materials for Your Poolside

When designing a poolside retreat, choosing the right pavers for pool deck is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, balancing beauty, safety, and durability. From budget-friendly concrete and manufactured pavers to luxurious natural stone and low-maintenance porcelain, each material offers unique advantages in terms of style, comfort, and long-term performance. Non-slip and heat-resistant surfaces are essential for ensuring safety and comfort, while eco-friendly options like permeable pavers support sustainability. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide a wide selection of premium pool deck pavers designed to withstand water exposure, heavy foot traffic, and changing weather conditions, helping you create a functional, stylish, and lasting outdoor space.

Paver Sealing Cost: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering sealing your patio, driveway, or walkway in 2025, understanding paver sealing cost is essential for making the right investment. Prices generally range from $0.50 to $2.50 per square foot, with factors like paver material, surface preparation, climate, and whether you choose DIY or professional services all influencing the final cost. While DIY sealing can be more affordable upfront, hiring a professional ensures expert application, high-quality sealants, and long-lasting protection. Beyond cost, sealing your pavers enhances curb appeal, protects against stains and weather damage, and extends their lifespan, making it a smart choice for preserving both beauty and durability. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide premium pavers, expert advice, and trusted contractor connections to help you get the best results for your outdoor space.

Large Format Patio Pavers: Tips for Your Outdoor Space

Large format patio pavers are a stylish and practical way to transform your outdoor living space. With sizes like 24x24, 36x36, or even 24x48 inches, these oversized pavers create a clean, modern look with fewer joints, making patios, walkways, and driveways appear more open and seamless. Available in durable materials such as concrete, granite, limestone, and porcelain, large format pavers combine long-lasting performance with sleek design. In this guide, we’ll cover the benefits, design ideas, installation tips, and maintenance essentials to help you choose the perfect large format pavers for your project.

Outdoor Fire Pit Pavers: Create a Safe, Stylish Backyard

Outdoor fire pit pavers are the perfect way to create a safe, durable, and stylish gathering spot in your backyard. Designed to handle high heat while enhancing your outdoor décor, pavers come in versatile options like brick, concrete, natural stone, and refractory materials. Whether you’re planning a rustic fire ring or a modern square design, the right pavers ensure long-lasting performance, easy maintenance, and timeless appeal. This guide covers how to choose, install, and maintain fire pit pavers so you can enjoy cozy nights by the fire for years to come.

Creative Paver Edging Ideas for Every Outdoor Project

Paver edging is more than just a finishing touch, it’s the key to keeping your patio, driveway, or garden paths both functional and beautiful. The right edging prevents shifting, adds structure, and enhances curb appeal by giving outdoor spaces a clean, polished look. From durable concrete and versatile plastic to timeless stone, sleek metal, and classic brick, there are countless ways to define your landscape with style. In this guide, we explore creative paver edging ideas, material options, and design tips to help you build an outdoor space that lasts.

Stone Patio Ideas to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space

Stone patio ideas can completely transform your backyard into a beautiful and functional outdoor living space. From rustic flagstone paths to sleek bluestone grids, natural stone offers durability, timeless style, and unique character that manufactured materials can’t match. Whether you want a cozy fire pit area, an elegant dining space, or a laid-back retreat, the right stone patio design adds lasting value and charm to your ho

Backyard Paver Patio Ideas, Styles and Tips

A backyard paver patio is one of the most versatile and durable ways to upgrade your outdoor space, offering both beauty and function. With endless design options, from concrete and brick to natural stone, you can create a patio that perfectly matches your home’s style. Beyond looks, pavers are strong, low-maintenance, and easily repairable compared to poured concrete, making them a smart long-term investment. Whether you’re planning a cozy corner for relaxation or a large space for gatherings, building with the right base, materials, and finishing touches will ensure your patio lasts for years.

Enhance Your Outdoor Space with Paver Walkway Designs

Paver walkway designs can instantly elevate the beauty and function of your outdoor space, creating inviting paths that enhance curb appeal and improve accessibility. Whether you prefer the clean lines of straight walkways, the relaxed flow of curved paths, or the charm of stepping stones, pavers offer endless design possibilities to match your home’s style. With options like concrete, brick, natural stone, and eco-friendly permeable pavers, you can choose materials that balance durability, aesthetics, and sustainability. Beyond looks, paver walkways are easy to maintain, cost-effective to repair, and customizable, making them a timeless addition to any yard or garden.

Paver Driveway Ideas: Designs, Patterns, and Expert Tips

Transform your home’s curb appeal with stunning paver driveway ideas. From classic brick and elegant natural stone to modern concrete and eco-friendly permeable options, paver driveways offer unmatched durability, style, and functionality. Explore patterns like herringbone, basketweave, or running bond, and add borders, edging, and lighting for a polished finish. At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we provide premium pavers, granite, bluestone, and expert tips to help you design a driveway that’s beautiful, long-lasting, and perfectly suited to your style.