The Right Yorkstone for Your Project: Flags, Setts & Steps Explained
When it comes to reclaimed paving, few materials offer the versatility, durability and timeless character of Yorkstone. But not all Yorkstone is the same — and choosing the right format for your project is key to achieving the perfect finish. Whether you’re laying a garden patio, a winding path, a traditional driveway, or raised beds, understanding the differences between flags, setts, and steps will help you make the right decision.
Yorkstone Flags – Best for Patios, Terraces and Pathways
Yorkstone flags are large, flat slabs of stone traditionally used for surfacing outdoor areas such as:
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Garden patios
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Courtyards
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Walkways and paths
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Terraces
Reclaimed Yorkstone flags often feature beautifully weathered surfaces, subtle colour variation and a patina that only comes with age. Their size makes them ideal for expansive, flat surfaces where visual continuity and elegance are a priority.
Why choose flags:
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Clean and level underfoot
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Aged surface character
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Easy to lay in coursed or random patterns
Yorkstone Setts – Best for Driveways, Borders and High-Traffic Areas
Setts (also known as cobbles) are smaller blocks of stone that provide greater flexibility and durability, particularly under heavier use. They are ideal for:
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Driveways
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Edging and garden borders
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Pathways with curvature
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Transitional areas between hard surfaces
Because of their depth and smaller surface area, setts are extremely strong and offer excellent resistance to movement and wear.
Why choose setts:
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Exceptional durability
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Traditional, hand-laid appearance
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Great for curved or uneven surfaces
Yorkstone Steps and Copings – Best for Level Changes, Walls and Features
Where your project includes raised beds, walling or changes in level, Yorkstone steps or coping stones are the perfect finishing touch. Copings also serve a practical purpose by protecting the top of stonework from weather.
Typical uses include:
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Raised garden beds
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Wall copings or cappings
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Entrance steps or transitions between patio levels
Reclaimed steps often have soft wear patterns and rounded edges that enhance their visual character.
Why choose steps or copings:
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Perfect match to paving for a cohesive finish
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Adds detail and elevation to the design
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Reclaimed pieces provide added charm
Choosing the Right Format for Your Space
When planning a Yorkstone project, consider:
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Surface area and load: Patios and paths favour flags; heavier-use areas may require setts.
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Design complexity: Setts are easier for curved layouts or detailed edges.
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Aesthetic goals: Reclaimed materials carry varied textures, tones and character.
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Practicality: Steps and copings are ideal where function and finish meet.
Need help matching stones across formats? Our stone matching service ensures consistency across different elements.
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Reclaimed Yorkstone Flags & Yorkstone Setts
Need guidance or sample recommendations?
Speak to our team – we’re here to help you get the right material for the job.
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