Armour stone is a type of large natural stone commonly used in outdoor construction and landscaping to create strong retaining walls, stabilize soil, and shape elevation changes. In Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, it is widely chosen for projects that must withstand heavy loads, shifting ground, and freeze-thaw weather conditions.
Homeowners and builders across the GTA use armour stone because it combines structural strength with a natural, long-lasting appearance, making it suitable for both residential and commercial properties.
What Is Armour Stone?
Armour stone is natural armour stone cut from limestone or similar rock and shaped into large stone blocks. Unlike decorative bricks or small pavers, these stones are massive and heavy, designed to hold back soil, manage elevation changes, and resist erosion.
In armour stone construction, the stones rely on their weight and precise placement rather than mortar, making them ideal for outdoor projects exposed to water, frost, and ground movement.
Simple definition:
Armour stone is a heavy-duty natural stone used for retaining walls, landscaping features, and structural outdoor construction.
How Armour Stone Is Made and Sourced
Most armour stone used in Ontario comes from local quarries. The stone is:
- Extracted as large blocks
- Cut into rectangular or irregular shapes
- Left mostly natural to maintain strength
Because it’s not manufactured, every piece has a unique texture and color, which is why decorative stone landscaping projects often choose armour stone over concrete alternatives.
Armour Stone Uses in Toronto and the GTA
Common Armour Stone Uses
Armour stone uses go far beyond looks. In the Toronto climate, it is chosen for its performance.
Most common applications include:
- Armour stone retaining wall construction
- Slope and erosion control
- Shoreline and water-edge protection
- Driveway and entrance borders
- Raised garden beds
- Commercial site landscaping
In areas like Scarborough, Etobicoke, and Mississauga, armour stone is frequently used to manage uneven lots and soft soil conditions.
Armour Stone Landscaping Applications
Armour stone landscaping is popular because it blends structure and beauty.
Examples from local projects:
- A stepped retaining wall in Vaughan to support a sloped backyard
- Decorative garden borders in Markham using natural stone blocks
- Entrance features in Richmond Hill for high-end residential properties
Because of its size and weight, armour stone stays in place even after heavy rain or snowmelt.
Armour Stone Retaining Wall: Why It Works
An armour stone retaining wall works by using gravity and mass instead of adhesives.
Key advantages:
- Handles heavy soil pressure
- Allows natural water drainage
- Resists cracking from freeze-thaw cycles
- Lasts for decades with minimal maintenance
This is especially important in the Greater Toronto Area, where clay-heavy soil expands and contracts throughout the year.
Armour Stone Types You Should Know
There are several armour stone types, each suited for different needs.
1. Limestone Armour Stone
- Most common in Ontario
- Light grey to beige
- Strong and cost-effective
2. Granite Armour Stone
- Extremely durable
- Darker appearance
- Often used in commercial projects
3. Irregular Armour Stone
- Natural, rough shapes
- Ideal for decorative stone landscaping
- Creates a more organic look
Choosing the right type depends on soil conditions, wall height, and design goals.
Armour Stone Benefits for Local Properties
The main armour stone benefits include:
- Long-term structural stability
- Natural drainage without water buildup
- Minimal maintenance
- High-end appearance
- Strong performance in Toronto weather
From North York to Burlington, armour stone is often chosen because it outperforms poured concrete in outdoor conditions.
Cost Considerations for Armour Stone Projects
Armour stone pricing varies based on:
- Stone size and type
- Project complexity
- Site access and preparation
- Equipment requirements
In the GTA, costs are influenced heavily by excavation and groundwork. Many homeowners underestimate the importance of proper base preparation, which can affect long-term performance.
For accurate pricing, it’s always best to assess the site conditions first.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care Tips
Armour stone requires very little upkeep, but some smart practices help extend its life:
- Ensure proper drainage behind walls
- Remove soil buildup at the base annually
- Avoid planting large trees too close together
- Inspect after heavy freeze-thaw seasons
These steps prevent shifting and maintain stability.
Common Client Mistakes We See
From years of local experience, the most common mistakes include:
- Skipping proper base preparation
- Using undersized stones for tall walls
- Ignoring drainage needs
- Attempting DIY installation without equipment
Because armour stone is extremely heavy, improper installation can become a safety risk.
When to Call a Professional in Toronto
You should call a professional if:
- The wall is over one meter high
- The area has poor drainage
- Heavy stone landscaping is involved
- The site requires excavation or grading
Professional installation ensures safety, longevity, and compliance with local conditions across Toronto and surrounding cities.
Why Choose Us for Armour Stone Services in Toronto
At We Are Bollards, we work on complex outdoor and site-preparation projects across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. Our experience with excavation, groundwork, and structural installations allows us to support armour stone projects correctly from the base up.
Why clients choose us:
- Local Toronto and GTA experience
- Understanding of soil and weather conditions
- Proper equipment for heavy stone handling
- Focus on long-term structural performance
Service Areas We Cover
We proudly serve Toronto and nearby areas including:
Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Thornhill, Maple, Aurora, King City, Nobleton, North York, Mississauga, Markham, Pickering, Stouffville, Woodbridge, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Brampton, Ajax, Bolton, Newmarket, Victoria Park, Whitby, Caledon, Oshawa, Milton, East Gwillimbury, Georgetown, Burlington, Bowmanville, Newcastle, and Barrie.
Local FAQs
- What is armour stone used for in Toronto?
Armour stone is used for retaining walls, landscaping features, and soil stabilization in Toronto properties. - Is armour stone natural stone?
Yes, armour stone is a natural stone cut from quarried rock. - How long does armour stone last?
Properly installed armour stone can last for decades with minimal maintenance. - Is armour stone good for retaining walls?
Yes, its weight and durability make it ideal for retaining wall construction. - Does armour stone handle freeze-thaw conditions well?
Yes, armour stone performs very well in Ontario’s freeze-thaw climate. - Can armour stone be used in residential landscaping?
Absolutely, it is widely used in residential armour stone landscaping projects. - Do I need professional installation for armour stone?
Yes, due to the weight and safety risks, professional installation is strongly recommended.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what armour stone is helps property owners make better decisions for landscaping and construction projects. With the right design and professional installation, armour stone delivers unmatched strength, durability, and visual appeal for Toronto-area properties. If you’re planning an armour stone project or need expert guidance based on local soil and site conditions, our Toronto team is available to help you choose the right solution.
