What is Decorative Rock
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Written by webtechs

What is Decorative Rock?

If you are new to the landscaping world, you may not be aware there’s a continual, endless argument since the dawn of landscaping time—decorative landscaping rock or mulch?
Whereas there are tons of landscapers out there that take a pretty steadfast stance on either side of that argument, there’s a time and a place for both decorative rock and mulch in landscaping—it all is subject to your objectives, your landscape, your soil, and a couple of other aspects.

So, if you’ve ever been curious about different kinds of landscaping rocks, adding them to your landscape, or are searching for inspiration on how to create the greatest rock landscape appearance, keep reading!

What Are Decorative Landscaping Rocks?

It’s important to make a fast distinction here prior to this post going into the landscaping rock argument—when the post says decorative rock, it is not in reference to minute little rocks that are going to foul up the soil, irritate you, get jammed in peoples’ shoes, and make your landscaping vivacity more difficult.
Decorative rock or landscaping stones are a natural kind of rock that can be utilized as undergrowth, an alternative for mulch, or for the addition of some decoration and character to your landscape.

Rocks can be an outstanding choice for any landscape for many reasons. For instance:
Besides decorative rocks being great for things such as suffocating weeds (and stopping them from growing in the first place), they’re also resistant to wind, which can add major benefits for soil erosion problems if you live someplace particularly windy.

Rocks are resistant to fire! There aren’t any flammable problems you need to be concerned about with rocks.

Rocks are low in maintenance, they’re rocks. They don’t decay, they are not going to grow mold, they don’t rot out, they’re just laying there, doing what they are meant to do, never causing you any problems. You may need to give them a good spray down or clean every now and then, but other than that that, there’s not much you need to be concerned with.
Large rocks are great for retaining walls. Simply put, they can hold back landslides, keep plants off of roadways, and create interesting characteristics and patterns in your landscape.

Improving Your Outdoor Areas with Decorative Rock

Decorative stone rock is a common term used for describing different styles and sizes of rocks that are used to improve outdoor living spaces. However, beyond the aesthetic attribute, these rocks have other duties in your landscaping project.

Decorative Rock by A & A Materials, Inc., Scottsdale, Arizona

A & A Materials, Inc., offers decorative rock for your landscaping needs. Contact us today or call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

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What is Cinder Rock?
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What is Cinder Rock?

This volcanic rock has been used for many years as a more conventional decorative stone. Black or cinder stands out in a planter or flower bed due to its dark complexion and rough, porous surface.

Use: Cinder, sometimes referred to as “lava rock,” is a fantastic material for landscaping. It can be applied to water feature accents, flower beds, and ornamental landscapes.

Although they are both volcanic landforms, cinder cones and lava domes have different formation, structure, and properties:

Dome of Lava

Formation: Viscous lava builds up close to the vent and slowly extrudes to form lava domes. This lava is more viscous than basaltic lava because it is usually andesitic, dacitic, or rhyolitic in composition.
Shape: They resemble domes and frequently have small bases and steep sides. As the lava cools and solidifies, the surface may become rough and fractured.
Lava domes are typically smaller than cinder cones, though they can vary in size. As more lava is extruded over time, they may enlarge.
Lava dome eruptions are typically less violent, but they can still result in pyroclastic flows in the event that the dome collapses or the lava becomes overly pressurized.

The Cinder Cone

Formation: The accumulation of volcanic debris, mostly tiny lava fragments known as cinders, which are released during violent eruptions, forms cinder cones. Around the vent, these pieces gradually return to the ground to form a hill in the shape of a cone.
Shape: They are conical and steep, and at the top is a bowl-shaped crater. The slopes can be fairly steep and are usually uniform.
Size: Cinder cones can grow to a height of several hundred meters and are typically larger than lava domes.
Style of Eruption: Cinder cone eruptions typically produce a large amount of ash and cinders and are explosive. Lava flows that might emanate from the base can also be produced by them.

In conclusion, cinder cones are constructed from the accumulation of ejected volcanic fragments and have a steep, conical shape, whereas lava domes are formed from the slow extrusion of viscous lava and have a dome-like shape. Lava domes are less explosive than cinder cone eruptions, which are usually more explosive. The eruption styles also vary.

A&A Materials, Inc. specializes in decorative rock landscape materials in Scottsdale and surrounding areas, that make your property look its best year-round. Call us at 480-990-0557 with any questions or for more information.

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Differences Between Rocks and Boulders
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Differences Between Rocks and Boulders

Differences Between Rocks and Boulders 🏔️🔍

Both rocks and boulders are natural stone formations, but they differ in size, use, and formation. Here’s how they compare:

🔸 Key Differences

Feature Rocks 🪨 Boulders 🏔️
Size Smaller, typically under 10 inches in diameter. Large stones, over 10 inches, often several feet wide.
Weight Lightweight to moderately heavy. Very heavy, often requiring machinery to move.
Formation Broken down from larger stones through erosion and weathering. Larger pieces of bedrock that have broken off due to natural forces.
Common Uses Landscaping, gravel, drainage, pathways, and decorative rock gardens. Retaining walls, large decorative landscaping features, and erosion control.
Ease of Handling Can be moved by hand or with small tools. Requires heavy equipment like forklifts or cranes.

🔹 Examples of Each

  • Rocks: Pea gravel, river rock, crushed stone, riprap.
  • Boulders: Large landscape boulders, volcanic rock formations, massive stones in nature.

Are Rocks and Boulders The Same Material?

Are Rocks and Boulders the Same Material?

Yes, rocks and boulders are made of the same geological materials, but they differ in size and formation. Both can be composed of igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic rock types, depending on their origin.

🔹 Key Similarities

✅ Same Geological Composition – Both can be made of granite, limestone, basalt, sandstone, etc.
✅ Natural Formation – Both form through geological processes like erosion, cooling, and pressure.
✅ Similar Mineral Content – Both contain minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica, depending on the rock type.

🔸 Key Differences

Feature Rocks 🪨 Boulders 🏔️
Size Smaller, less than 10 inches. Larger, over 10 inches (often several feet wide).
Formation Often broken down from larger boulders or bedrock. A larger, intact piece of bedrock.
Use Gravel, pathways, decorative rock gardens, drainage. Landscaping features, erosion control, retaining walls.

🌎 Example Materials Found in Both

  • Granite – Common in landscaping boulders and crushed rock.
  • Limestone – Used in retaining walls and gravel driveways.
  • Sandstone – Found in rock formations and flagstone.

So while all boulders are rocks, not all rocks are boulders!

Landscaping Materials Scottsdale, Arizona

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers, all purpose sand, aggregates, river rock, rip rap rock, mulch and wood chips for your landscaping or gardening needs. Contact us or call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

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Landscape Rocks in Scottsdale
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Written by webtechs

Landscape Rocks in Scottsdale

Landscape rocks are natural or manufactured stones used in landscaping to enhance aesthetics, control erosion, and provide low-maintenance ground cover. They come in various sizes, colors, and textures to fit different design styles and functional needs.

🌿 Types of Landscape Rocks

🔹 Pea Gravel (1/4″ – 1/2″) – Small, rounded stones great for pathways, driveways, and drainage.
🔹 River Rock (1/2″ – 3″) – Smooth, multi-colored stones ideal for garden beds and water features.
🔹 Decomposed Granite (DG) – Crushed rock used for walkways, patios, and driveways.
🔹 Crushed Stone (1/2″ – 2″) – Angular rock for driveways, drainage, or decorative use.
🔹 Rip Rap (3″ – 12″) – Large rocks used for erosion control on slopes and drainage areas.
🔹 Boulders (12″+) – Large, decorative stones for accent features in landscaping.
🔹 Lava Rock – Lightweight, porous rock that retains heat, commonly used in desert landscapes.

🛠️ Benefits of Using Landscape Rocks

✔ Low Maintenance – No watering, mowing, or trimming needed.
✔ Erosion Control – Prevents soil erosion in heavy rains.
✔ Improved Drainage – Helps water flow properly in landscapes.
✔ Durability – Long-lasting and doesn’t degrade like mulch.
✔ Weed Prevention – Acts as a barrier when paired with landscape fabric.

📍 Best Uses in Landscaping

  • Xeriscaping (low-water desert landscaping)
  • Garden bed borders & pathways
  • Dry river beds & drainage solutions
  • Accent features with boulders
  • Ground cover around trees & plants

in Scottsdale, AZ, the best landscape rocks should be heat-resistant, low-maintenance, and complement a desert-style landscape. Here are the top recommendations based on function and style:

🌵 Best Landscape Rocks for Scottsdale Yards

1️⃣ Decomposed Granite (DG) – Best for Walkways & Ground Cover

✅ Pros:

  • Affordable and widely available in Phoenix.
  • Compacts well for walkways, patios, and driveways.
  • Allows water drainage while preventing dust.

❌ Cons:

  • Can get hot under direct sun.
  • Needs occasional replenishing to maintain color.

🔹 Best Use: Driveways, pathways, and ground cover.

2️⃣ Pea Gravel (1/4” – 1/2”) – Best for Pathways & Drainage

✅ Pros:

  • Small, smooth, and comfortable to walk on.
  • Excellent for drainage and decorative beds.
  • Comes in beige, brown, and gray tones that match Phoenix desert landscapes.

❌ Cons:

  • Can shift easily, requiring edging or stabilizing.

🔹 Best Use: Pathways, patios, around plants, and as a top layer over soil.

3️⃣ River Rock (1” – 3”) – Best for Dry River Beds & Decorative Areas

✅ Pros:

  • Smooth, polished look with a mix of browns, grays, and tans.
  • Great for dry river beds, drainage, and erosion control.
  • Long-lasting and doesn’t break down like DG.

❌ Cons:

  • More expensive than DG and pea gravel.
  • Can trap heat and may need occasional repositioning.

🔹 Best Use: Dry river beds, decorative accents, and drainage areas.

4️⃣ Lava Rock – Best for Heat Reflection & Low-Maintenance

✅ Pros:

  • Lightweight, porous, and great for desert landscapes.
  • Retains less heat than solid rock, making it good for plant beds.
  • Available in black, red, and brown colors.

❌ Cons:

  • Sharp edges can make it uncomfortable for walking.
  • Tends to blow away in strong winds without a border.

🔹 Best Use: Ground cover around cacti, succulents, and desert plants.

5️⃣ Crushed Granite or Crushed Rock – Best for Driveways & High-Traffic Areas

✅ Pros:

  • More stable than pea gravel, doesn’t shift easily.
  • Great for driveways and patios due to its compacting ability.
  • Matches the natural desert aesthetic.

❌ Cons:

  • Can be rough on bare feet.
  • Needs occasional raking to maintain level.

🔹 Best Use: Driveways, pathways, and areas needing stable ground cover.

6️⃣ Boulders & Rip Rap – Best for Decorative Features & Erosion Control

✅ Pros:

  • Adds a natural, rugged look to desert landscapes.
  • Helps with erosion control on slopes and water runoff areas.
  • Minimal maintenance needed.

❌ Cons:

  • Expensive depending on size.
  • Heavy to install, may require professional placement.

🔹 Best Use: Accent pieces, retaining walls, or stabilizing slopes.

🔥 Phoenix Landscape Rock Buying & Installation Tips

✅ Pick light-colored rocks (beige, tan, gray) to reduce heat absorption.
✅ Use landscape fabric under rocks to prevent weeds.
✅ Buy in bulk from local rock suppliers to save money.
✅ Layer different rock sizes for a natural desert look.
✅ Mix with drought-resistant plants (agave, cactus, yucca) for a true xeriscape design.

A&A Materials, Inc. specializes in decorative rock landscape materials in Scottsdale and surrounding areas, that make your property look its best year-round. Call us at 480-990-0557 with any questions or for more information.

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What is a Retaining Wall?
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What is a Retaining Wall?

A retaining wall is a network of construction materials that keeps or retains ground covering behind it. There are a lot of kinds of materials that can be utilized for creating retaining walls such as crushed rock, boulders concrete blocks, poured concrete, treated timbers or rocks. Some are easier to use, others have a restricted longevity, however, all can “retain” soil.

Gravity Wall or Geo-grid Reinforced Wall?

Several questions must be answered to build the appropriate type of retaining wall. For instance, is the soil clay, sand, or a mixture of the two? What lies above the wall: a driveway or something weightier such as a pool? Is the ground above or below the wall going to be even or inclined? What is going to be the height of the wall? All these aspects are going to determine if you will require a Gravity Retaining Wall or a Geo-grid Reinforced Retaining Wall.

Gravity retaining walls are ones that rely on their own mass and setback to hold back the material and are usually shorter in their height. Many retaining walls are perfect for this kind of wall, since they get stacked together, they lock together to create a setback. This setback assists the wall in supporting the pressures from the materials behind it.

Reinforced retaining walls are ones that utilize some kind of reinforcement to give more durability to the retaining wall itself, therefore improving its capacity to retain the materials behind it. Geogrid is placed between routes of blocks in the wall and rolled back into the incline or hillside throughout installation for creating a stronger and more balanced soil mass. Basically, the blocks, the geogrid and the reinforced material mass work together for making one large, heavy retaining wall framework. Oftentimes grid is not a functional solution on a project because of space or other site conditions, so optional reinforcement materials need to be utilized – like no-granular concrete, soil nails or ground anchors. These kinds of reinforcements usually require an outsourced engineer for design and a licensed contractor for the wall’s installation.

Types of Retaining Walls

In recent years a lot of different retaining walls textiles have helped renew the landscape in which we live. Typical retaining wall products can comprise of railway ties or treated timbers in addition to natural stones, wall stones, concrete blocks and bricks.

Whereas wood is often a low-cost and simple option for a retaining wall, its shorter longevity makes it a relatively substandard option. When the wood breaks down, your retaining wall and the strength of your available space do too. Rocks, stones, or boulders (or a combination of them) can create appealing retaining walls, however, the installation of these materials can be costly and laborious. Additionally, maintenance of stone walls can be challenging, because over time they could break down or become home to pests and invasive weeds.

Mortar or cast-in place retaining walls are another alternative. These walls can be installed with a multitude of flagstones, veneers, bricks, etc. which add consistency and style. Nevertheless, these structures are inflexible and don’t move and flex with environmental changes, monsoons and other natural forces, and can be very costly to build.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers native compost for your landscaping needs. Contact us today or call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

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Mulch vs Rocks
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Mulch Vs. Rocks

Following you planting new trees, foliage and flowers, you want to add the coup de grace–mulch. Mulch is going to make your landscape appear immaculate and refined.

However, does it make a difference what kind of mulch you use? Or should you maybe replace mulch with rocks?

Keep reading to discover the pros and cons of mulching with an organic mulch or an inorganic mulch such as rocks.

Mulch Vs. Rocks – Which Is Better in Gardens & Around Trees?

Pros & Cons of Organic Mulch

Below are the pros and cons of using mulch in your landscaping:

Pros

Improved Growth: Mulch can just about double how fast trees and plants grow, as reported by research studies.

Reduced Water:  Mulch promotes rain-water infiltration and soil water storage and decreases water evaporation, so you can spend less time and resources watering!

Additional Nutrients: As mulch decomposes, it adds nourishment that plants require to flourish.

Less Weeds:  Mulch decreases weed seed sprouting, so you are going to see less weeds in your beds.

The Perfect Temperature:  Mulch keeps soil and roots safeguarded in the winter months and cooler in the summer ones.

Decrease Compaction and Erosion:  Mulch hinders soil erosion, which is going to be uncontrollable in places where the soil is left exposed. Mulch additionally makes the soil more enduring against compaction. Additionally, people are unlikely to walk and/or drive on mulch, so there’s reduced soil compaction from the beginning.

Cons

Yearly Replacement: Subject to your mulch type, you are going to have to replace it or top dress it every 1 to 4 years. Therefore, it’s a continual time and cost expense.

Lavishness: Placing a layer of mulch more than 2 to 3 inches can diminish water movement and deteriorate bases of foliage.

Too Soon = Late Blooms: Putting mulch down too soon might slow how fast the ground gets warmer, meaning you could see blooms a little later than average.

Later than Normal = Weeds: Mulch hinders weeds from going into germination. If you mulch too late, it additionally might not stop them.

Look for Seeds:  Many organic mulches, such as shredded green waste and hay, might have weed seeds in them.

Pros & Cons of Rocks

Below are the pros and cons of using rocks in your landscaping:

Pros

Minimum Maintenance: You probably never need to have them replaced.

Lower Expense: Since they’re longer lasting, it is usually less costly to mulch with rocks in the long term.

Fire-Resistant:  Should you live in an area that has wildfires, rocks offer defensible space because they’re non-flammable.

Weeds Be Gone:  Rocks could keep weeds away longer because seeds have trouble germinating through them.

Resistant to Wind: Heavier rocks are perfect at stopping soil erosion in windy places.

Excellent for Rock and Succulent Gardens: Rocks are ideal for these garden areas!

Cons

Really Hot: Rocks increase the soil temperature and emit heat long after sunset, resulting in stressed-out, thirsty foliage.

Cleaning-out: Clutter and debris must be cleaned out from your rocks to maintain their look. This is a laborious endeavor that also takes away nutrients from the soil which is required to be replaced with fertilizer.

Keep an Eye on the pH: A lot of trees favor acidic soil; however, carbonate rocks produce alkaline soil, which can harm most trees.

The Comeback of the Weeds: Wind is going to eventually blow soil between rocks, creating an area for weeds to germinate.

Removal by Hand: When you want to take out rocks, you must do it by hand, which can be monotonous!

The outcome? Organic mulch is generally better than rocks. However, rock is better than having no mulch at all!

Landscaping Materials Scottsdale, Arizona

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers, all purpose sand, including washed concrete sand, aggregates, river rock, rip rap rock, mulch and wood chips for your landscaping or gardening needs. Contact us or call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

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River Rock Cost 2020
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

River Rock Cost 2020

Of all the types of landscaping rock options offered at A&A Materials, what makes river rocks stand out above the rest? Homeowners starting landscaping projects have an assortment of choices, from boulders, all the way down to cinder rock. But, river rocks can be some of the most sough-after rocks for residential purposes. Here is an overview of average river rock cost in 2020.

River Rock Benefits

River rocks serve many purposes for your landscaping needs. The first obvious benefit is the aesthetically pleasing element they provide for your waterway or walkway. These are typically the smoothest rocks one can find on the market today. The river rocks have been smoothed out over decades by the natural rushing water in which they are generally found. River rocks used for landscaping needs are either fresh out of water or have been sitting in dried up beds. Regardless of the former resting spot, these river rocks will deliver sheer beauty to your landscaping project. If you are deciding between either adding mulch or river rocks to your project, the fact that rocks won’t wear away over time unlike mulch should make the decision easy. The shapes and sizes of these rocks are seemingly limitless. Remember, the more rare the color of the river rocks, the more costly it will be.

River Rock Costs

  • River rocks cost about $100-$280 per ton.
  • Cost per yard can vary a lot, usually going between $130-$910 per cubic yard.
  • Per square foot, the rocks can cost between $1.24-$8.64.
  • Average costs for typical river rock landscaping projects: $650.
  • The high cost could come in at more than $1,000.
  • The lowest possible cost for river rock projects could float around $460.

Costs By Type

As stated above, the rarer the color, the heftier the cost. All pricing listed below is per ton.

  • Arizona: $150-$200.
  • Salt and Pepper: $175-$280.
  • Cherokee: $150-$200.
  • Colorado: $80-$280.
  • Rainbow: $100-$200.

Install Costs

Most landscaping companies in Arizona will likely charge by the hour when installing river rocks in your desired areas. Moving river rocks, especially a large bundle, can be time consuming. Customers should expect fees between $50-$100 per hour for these services. Depending on the load size, manual labor may take up to 8 hours.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers native compost for your landscaping needs. Call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

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Arizona Landscaping Prices
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Written by Brian B

Arizona Landscaping Prices

There is nothing better than a perfectly landscaped front and backyard. The lush greenery or vibrant colors of a desert setting can be enjoyed by all. Flowers, trees and cacti can provide numerous benefits; not just for homeowners, but for the environment as well. Grass alone can help cleanse the environment. Grass captures dust, absorbs water and cleanses the air, among several other duties. Overall, a beautiful landscape provides a calming influence in the air. So, why not get started on an ambitious landscaping project heading into the fall season? Here is a list of averages of some Arizona landscaping prices.

Landscape Rocks

  • Landscape stone: priced between $20-$100 per cubic yard, on average.
  • $0.75-$4 per cubic foot.
  • Arizona river rocks can be costly, running around $230 per yard.

Mulch

  • Economy mulch generally costs $2-$4 per bag.
  • Economy mulch can cost $15-$30 per cubic yard, if you prefer to measure it that way.
  • Colored or hardwood mulch can cost $30-$40 per yard.
  • That same type of mulch can run you between $3-$8 per bag.
  • Mulch delivery can cost between $40-$100.

Wood Chips

  • Wood chips are typically cheap, costing about $2 per bag.
  • Per yard, the average cost is $24 for wood chips.
  • Wood chips delivery can cost between $120-$250, depending on the amount of area covered.

Fill Sand

  • Fill sand runs at a price of $15-$50 per yard.
  • A bulk truck load delivery of sand, dirt or topsoil usually costs between $150-$600.

Boulders

  • Costs of landscaping boulders is between $100-$600 per ton.

Find more information about Arizona landscaping and landscaping materials by clicking here.

A&A Materials, Inc. specializes in decorative rock landscape materials in Scottsdale and surrounding areas, that make your property look its best year-round. Call us at 480-990-0557 with any questions or for more information.

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Landscape Rocks in Scottsdale
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Landscape – Rocks

The addition of landscape – rocks to one’s landscaping project can be invaluable. Whether you use decorative, river, rip rap or cinder rocks, the result will likely please the eye. These types of landscape rocks can be used as bedding, siding or a foundational piece below your latest at-home project. These are a few of the best rock versions to use for your landscaping needs.

Decorative Rock

Decorative rocks can come in all shapes and sizes. From apache brown and pink, all the way to madison gold, the combinations for your landscaping desires are endless. Picking out the right decorative rock is all about taste and need. Some may believe simply choosing river or rip rap rock could be the way to go, since the process of hand-picking various decorative rocks could become tedious. By just searching through our gallery, you will see the many choices one has when searching for the right decorative rocks. Gold, brown and silver are among the various color options that could best serve your landscaping needs.

River Rock

River rocks are generally some of the smoothest rocks you can purchase for your front or backyard needs. Either manually or naturally, these rocks have had all rough edges smoothed out over time. The rough parts have likely smoothed due to constant water rushing over them. That leads to the possibility of using river rocks in your own yard if you choose to have some sort of water on display. The main benefit to choosing river rocks over mulch is that these rocks will not wear away over time.

Rip Rap Rock

Unlike decorative rocks, rip rap rock has a main purpose of erosion control. While rip rap can be used for decoration, it is more commonly utilized for erosion control, especially in Arizona. Rip rap rocks are generally very large, so be prepared for a long workout if you’re planning on lugging these rocks yourself. Rip rap can be constructed essentially like a wall, with one rock on top of another. It can also be laid down flat, as well.

Cinder Rock

This type of rock is one of the most popular decorative versions of the igneous family. Cinder, especially red-tinted cinder, has been commonly used in firepits. However, red cinder can also come in handy for any landscaping projects that could use some extra flare or color. Overall, each one of these various rock types serves a unique and valuable purpose for whatever your landscaping needs may call for.

A&A Materials, Inc. specializes in decorative rock landscape materials in Scottsdale and surrounding areas, that make your property look its best year-round. Call us at 480-990-0557 with any questions or for more information.

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