Question
How is Pennsylvania bluestone installed...rough or smooth side up?

Answer
Hi Donna,

Please forgive my tardiness in getting back with you. I am on an extended vacation traveling in remote areas that do not have Internet access, so I am unable to check my e-mail regularly. I hope that I have not kept you from your work using what I consider some of the most beautiful stone found in the US.

Pennsylvania Bluestone is a very beautiful stone used in a variety of settings and applications, and determining the use of it would determine the side that you want to expose.

If you are using it for a formal walkway where there is potential of bare feet being on it, I suggest the smooth side up.

If you are using it for a fascia for a wall (excluding an interior shower wall) would would recommend texture out since the beauty is extenuated in many applications by the texture of the stone.

I would be happy to provide more insight if you would be not mind terribly in giving me a specific application that you are using it for. Additionally, I would love to see pictures of your application once it is done so that I can admire your work.

Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any further help or encouragement in your construction of the retaining wall you endeavor to build. And again, please forgive my tardiness in getting back with you.

Yours for a more peaceful and greener garden walk,

David Ward
[email protected]