Understanding "Ashlar" and "Sawn Ashlar":

• Ashlar: In masonry, Ashlar refers to finely dressed (cut and shaped) stone, typically with a rectangular or square face. Ashlar patterns usually feature stones of consistent heights and varied lengths, laid in horizontal courses. This provides a more refined, structured, and contemporary look compared to irregular styles like fieldstone or ledgestone.

• Sawn Ashlar: This term signifies that the stones have been "sawn" or machine-cut to precise dimensions, often on all sides, resulting in very straight edges and consistent thickness. This allows for tighter grout joints (or even a dry-stacked appearance with minimal joints) and a very clean, crisp installation. The "sawn" aspect contrasts with "split-face" stones (like many ledgestones or fieldstones) where the natural face of the stone is revealed by splitting, leading to more irregular textures.

Key Characteristics of Avalon Bay Sawn Ashlar:

• Material: It's typically crafted from natural marble. This provides a durable, high-quality material with inherent variations in color and veining that add character.

• Appearance: Avalon Bay Sawn Ashlar usually features rich dark gray tones with subtle brown accents. The "sawn" finish gives it a sleek, modern, and precise appearance, highlighting the elegant coloration of the marble. Because it's natural stone, each piece will have unique textures and shades, enhancing the depth and character of the overall installation.

• Profile: It's an Ashlar profile, meaning the pieces are generally rectangular or square and laid in courses. This creates a more formal and architectural look compared to random patterns.

• Finish: The "sawn" aspect implies cleanly cut edges, allowing for a very tight and uniform installation. It often has a "light tumbled" finish as well, which can slightly soften the edges for a more refined, yet still contemporary, look.

• Applications: Highly versatile for both interior and exterior use. Common applications include:

  • Exterior Facades: Pillar walls, entire home exteriors, commercial building fronts, adding a sophisticated and classic curb appeal.

  • Outdoor Living Spaces: Kitchen and barbecue surrounds, garden walls, creating defined and elegant outdoor areas.

  • Interior Features: Fireplace surrounds, accent walls in living rooms, bathrooms, or entryways, where a clean and modern stone look is desired.

• Sustainability: Products like Avalon Bay Sawn Ashlar often carry GREENGUARD Gold and USGBC/LEED certifications, indicating a commitment to low chemical emissions and environmental responsibility.

• Durability: As natural marble, it is generally frost-resistant and durable, making it suitable for various climates and high-traffic areas.

• Installation: Being "sawn" makes installation generally more straightforward than highly irregular stone, as the consistent sizing allows for quicker placement and minimal cutting. It can be installed with very thin mortar joints or even dry-stacked for a seamless look, depending on the desired aesthetic and structural requirements.

Why choose Sawn Ashlar?

• Modern Elegance: It offers a contemporary and sophisticated aesthetic that complements modern architectural designs.

• Clean Lines: The sawn edges allow for precise installations with minimal grout, creating a very clean and crisp finish.

• Durability of Natural Stone: You get the inherent strength, longevity, and timeless beauty of real marble.

• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial applications.

If you are looking for a natural stone veneer that combines the classic appeal of Ashlar with a sleek, modern, and uniform finish, Avalon Bay Sawn Ashlar would be an excellent choice.