Review of Black Mountain Quarries BMQ Stone

Overview

Black Mountain Quarries BMQ Random Building Stone is a natural sandstone suitable for stone walling and as gabion facing stone. The product is quarried in the Black Mountains which border England and Wales. It has a colour combination of warm brown, cool grey and green sandstone.

I have used the stone on a number of garden projects and found it to be a straightforward and enjoyable product to use and has a beautiful finish. I have been able to build sweeping curves as well as straight walls with the product.

I have used it for small low level dry walls, laid the stone with a mortar bed and brushed mortar joints and as facing stone for gabions.

The random sizes takes a little time to get used to using, mortar joints can obviously provide more sturdy structure for those who are inexperienced with building natural stone walls.

The grey tones provide a good contrast to Cotswold stone gravel, new railways sleepers or as a back drop to vivid coloured flowers and foliage.

The companies customer service has always been helpful, and provide a prompt turn around time between order and delivery. This company also offers other natural stone.

Specification

Colours:

Walling Sizes: Random length and height. Depth 6", 9" or wider.

Coverage: 6" stone: 1 tonne will build approximately 3 - 3.5sqm

9" depth stone: 1 tonne will build approximately 2 - 2.5sqm

Weathering: Some weathering is to be expected.

Lichen Growth: Lichen is possible but I would consider it part of the natural ageing / weathering.

Maintenance: Clean with warm soapy water and brush if required.

High pressure washers can damage surface and pointing so be careful !

Cutting: Diamond cutting blade should only be used on non visible faces to maintain natural look. Recommend a brick or stone hammers, baluster and mallet for a natural finish.

Size: Random length and height. Depth 6", 9" or wider.

Ease of Laying: The natural stone sizes can make laying difficult and takes some patience but achievable with basic skills. Can be laid as a small natural dry stone wall or with mortar bed and brushed joints.

Delivery: Small quantities 1 - 3 tonne delivered in 1 tonne bulk bags on a pallet, l cannot comment on larger loads.

Price Guide: Approximately £155 / tonne + vat + delivery

February 2011 but an up to date price available from company.

Official Guide: Black Mountain Quarries BMQ Random Building Stone

Summary

Pros: A versatile range of natural stone that enables you to achieve a number of walling styles.

Cons: Obviously dearer than man made alternatives and can take a little time to get used to laying the different stone thicknesses.

Photos

Review written by Craig McGibbon - www.craigmcgibbon.com

Source of photos Black Mountain Quarries and Craig McGibbon's portfolio.

This review is based upon personal opinion; the reviewer receives no financial gain from the supplier and/or manufacturer to write this review

Replies

Craig McGibbon February 10, 2011 at 6:59pm

Thanks Gary,

Was really quick to do the review using the format. My next review 'gabions' so watch this space... can't expect you to write all the reviews ;o)

Craig

Gary @ Acer Paving & Landscaping said:

I especially like the stone gabions Craig. There's a wealth of information in your review, far more than available on suppliers websites I would suggest.