• Create a decorative patio floor using natural stones.patio image by fotogis?¡§le from Fotolia.com
  
  Natural stones for patio designs are sometimes the actual rocks removed from quarries or outcroppings. You can also find natural stone pavers to make a patio that is more uniform in size and shape. Whether you choose pavers or a natural stone configuration, the beauty of the finished patio lies in the color and texture variations of the natural stones.
  
  

Natural Slate and Slate Tiles

• Natural slate stones have different thicknesses and dimensions; laying a patio with natural slate is similar to working a puzzle. Natural slate tile sizes range from 12-inch squares to 12x24-inch rectangles for patio floor designs. Natural slate tiles are textured; the uneven surface keeps the patio floor from becoming slippery when wet.
  
  

Natural Pebble Tiles

• Pebble tiles create a mosaic style patio floor using a variety of small, natural stones. Pebble tiles are made by attaching individual stones to a mesh backing that is uniform in size. The tiles interlock to make the installation appear seamless and natural, not tiled. Like other mosaic patterns, seal pebble tiles with exterior grout to complete the natural stone patio floor.
  
  

Limestone Pavers

• Limestone is a reliable, long-lasting building material used in the U.S. since the late 1800s. Natural limestone pavers are absorbent, so seal and maintain the stones properly to prevent staining.
  
  

Natural Marble and Granite Pavers

• Marble and granite pavers or tiles are both made from natural stone. The stones are cut into specified sizes for the patio floor design. Marble tiles and pavers may have a polished or tumbled finish. Travertine marble has a tumbled, buffed appearance and is a favorite choice for interior and exterior patio floors. Granite pavers and tiles may also have a muted, tumbled finished or come polished with a high gloss sheen.
  
  

Flagstone

• Like natural slate, flagstone is another natural stone that is used in its natural form or in sizes and shapes manufactured for uniformity. Natural flagstone is quarried from limestone, sandstone and bluestone and is available in shades of red, tan and blue. Cover an existing concrete patio with natural flagstones or build a new patio with flagstones placed on a bed of gravel or sand.