Custom Natural Stone Masonry Services

The Timeless Beauty of Natural Stone

There is something special about natural stone. Every piece is unique, shaped by millions of years of geological forces. When you build with natural stone, you are creating something that connects your home to the earth itself. No two stone projects look exactly alike, which means your masonry work will be truly one of a kind.

Natural stone also has practical benefits beyond its beauty. It is incredibly durable, weatherproof, and requires almost no maintenance. While other materials fade, crack, or deteriorate over time, stone just gets more character. Many of the world's oldest structures are built from stone and still standing strong after thousands of years.

At DEM Des Moines Masonry, we have been working with natural stone for years. We understand the properties of different stone types, how to select the right stone for each application, and how to install it properly so it lasts for generations. Whether you want a dramatic stone wall, a natural stone patio, or custom stone accents, we bring craftsmanship and artistry to every project.

Types of Natural Stone We Work With

Each type of natural stone has unique characteristics that make it suited for different applications. Here are some of the stones we use most often in Des Moines projects:

• •Limestone: A classic Midwest stone with warm tones ranging from cream to gray. Limestone is relatively soft and easy to work with, making it great for detailed carving and decorative features.
• •Sandstone: Available in earth tones from tan to red to brown. Sandstone has a textured surface that adds character to walls and patios. It is durable and weather-resistant.
• •Granite: One of the hardest natural stones, granite comes in many colors and finishes. It is perfect for high-traffic areas, countertops, and structural applications.
• •Fieldstone: Rounded stones collected from fields and riverbeds. Fieldstone has a rustic, natural appearance that works beautifully for walls, columns, and landscape features.
• •River rock: Smooth, rounded stones in various sizes and colors. Great for decorative features, drainage solutions, and natural-looking landscapes.
• •Flagstone: Flat stones perfect for patios, walkways, and steps. Available in irregular shapes for a natural look or cut into uniform pieces for a more formal appearance.
• •Bluestone: A dense, durable stone with blue-gray tones. Excellent for patios, pool decks, and any application where you need a non-slip surface.

We help you choose the right stone for your project based on your aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and budget. We work with trusted suppliers to source quality stone in the colors and sizes you want.

Custom Stone Applications

Natural stone is incredibly versatile. Here are some of the most popular ways we use it in Des Moines homes:

Stone Walls and Features

Stone walls can be functional, decorative, or both. We build retaining walls that manage elevation changes, freestanding walls that define spaces, and decorative accent walls that become focal points. We can build walls using mortar for a refined look or dry-stack them for a more natural, rustic appearance.

Stone Patios and Walkways

Natural stone patios age beautifully and require virtually no maintenance. We design and build custom stone patios using flagstone, bluestone, or other flat stones. Stone walkways provide safe, attractive pathways that complement your landscaping.

Outdoor Kitchens and Fireplaces

Stone creates stunning outdoor kitchens and fireplaces that become the centerpiece of your backyard. Natural stone provides excellent heat resistance and creates an organic, natural aesthetic that blends beautifully with outdoor settings.

Steps and Entryways

Stone steps make a grand entrance and can last for centuries. We build custom stone steps using solid stone slabs or construct them with natural stone veneers over concrete bases.

Stone Veneer Siding

Want the look of solid stone without the weight and cost? Stone veneer siding provides the beauty of natural stone at a fraction of the weight and expense. We install thin stone veneers over existing walls to transform the appearance of your home.

Whatever stone application you have in mind, we bring the craftsmanship needed to make it reality. Each stone is carefully selected and placed to create a cohesive, beautiful result.

The Art of Stone Masonry

Working with natural stone is as much art as it is construction. Unlike uniform manufactured materials, every stone is different. It takes skill and experience to select stones that fit together aesthetically and structurally.

Our masons study each stone before placing it. We look at color, texture, shape, and how it relates to surrounding stones. We might test-fit dozens of stones before finding the perfect one for a particular spot. This attention to detail is what separates beautiful stone work from mediocre installations.

We also understand the structural requirements of stone masonry. Proper foundation preparation, drainage considerations, and installation techniques ensure that your stone project is not just beautiful but built to last. Natural stone is heavy, and it needs solid support underneath.

This combination of artistic vision and technical expertise is what makes truly exceptional stone masonry. When we finish a project, you get a unique creation that enhances your property and increases its value.

Maintenance and Care for Natural Stone

One of the best things about natural stone is how little maintenance it requires. Stone does not rot, rust, or fade. It does not need painting or staining. Rain naturally cleans it, and it just gets more character as it ages.

That said, there are a few things you can do to keep your stone looking its best. Occasionally sweep or rinse off dirt and debris. For mortared stone work, check the joints every few years and have them repointed if the mortar starts to deteriorate. This is especially important in areas exposed to freeze-thaw cycles.

Some homeowners choose to seal their stone, especially for patios and high-traffic areas. Sealing can help prevent staining and make cleaning easier, though it is not always necessary. We can advise you on whether sealing makes sense for your particular stone type and application.

With minimal care, your natural stone masonry will outlast every other material on your property and potentially last for centuries. It is an investment that pays dividends in beauty and durability for generations.

Why Choose Natural Stone

You might be wondering whether natural stone is worth the investment compared to manufactured alternatives. Here is what you need to know.

Natural stone costs more upfront than some other materials, but it lasts far longer. When you factor in the lifespan of natural stone, the cost per year is actually quite reasonable. You will not be replacing or repairing it every few years like you might with wood, vinyl, or even some manufactured stone products.

Natural stone also adds significant value to your home. Quality stone work is a selling point that appeals to buyers and sets your property apart from others. It shows craftsmanship and permanence that manufactured materials simply cannot match.

Most importantly, natural stone just looks better. No manufactured product can replicate the authentic beauty of real stone. When you walk up to a natural stone entry or sit on a stone patio, you can feel the difference. It is real, solid, and timeless.

Frequently Asked Questions