Pros and Cons of Sandstone Paving

June 18, 2023

Pros & Cons of Indian Sandstone Paving

Indian sandstone paving is a natural and durable option that adds both beauty and functionality to your outdoor spaces. Whether you're designing a patio, driveway, or walkway, this versatile stone offers a range of benefits, from its aesthetic appeal to its longevity. However, it’s essential to weigh these advantages against potential drawbacks, like staining and the need for proper installation. In this guide, we'll explore the pros and cons of Indian sandstone paving, helping you make an informed decision for your outdoor project.

Aspect	Pros	Cons
Appearance	Natural, distinctive style with multicolored stones and a unique finish, offering versatility in design.	May not uniformly match every outdoor décor theme due to its natural variation.
Durability	Highly durable, ideal for high-traffic areas and heavy impact zones.	Susceptible to cracking and chipping under extreme conditions or improper installation.
Maintenance	Low maintenance; requires regular cleaning and occasional sealing.	Prone to staining and discoloration, needing preventive measures like sealing.
Installation	Can be installed in various patterns to enhance outdoor aesthetics.	Requires professional installation for the best results and longevity.
Safety	Non-slip surface, making it safe for areas prone to moisture.	Texture might vary, which can impact its non-slip quality.
Cost	A cost-effective option compared to some other paving materials.	Can be expensive depending on the quality and source of the sandstone.
Eco-Friendliness	Sandstone is a natural product and can be an environmentally friendly option.	Quarrying and transportation may have an environmental impact.

Why Choose Sandstone Paving?

Natural Warmth & Beauty - The sandy ripples and grains visible in varieties like our Kandla Grey range display the very origins and evolution of sandstone over millennia. Neutral creams through earthy greys and vibrant jewel tones bring a cozy ambiance to your outdoor space.

Textured & Safe Underfoot - Unlike finely honed stone, the natural cleft riven patio slabs provide grip and visual depth even when wet, making sandstone suitable for pool surrounds, play areas, and footpaths.

Strength & Durability - Made of tightly compacted quartz, feldspar, and other minerals, sandstone withstands heavy footfall and general wear and tear. Its durable surface also makes it an ideal choice for pet-friendly paving.

Budget & Eco-Friendly - Indian sandstone represents great value, starting at just £18 per m². Locally sourced from reputable suppliers, our direct importing cuts transportation emissions too.

Easy Maintenance - Beyond an occasional sweep and seal, sandstone maintenance needs are simple. Our patio packs lend themselves to straightforward DIY installation.

Potential Cons of Sandstone Paving

With sandstone being permeable, some smart precautions ensure your sandstone patio or driveway delivers decades of enjoyment.

Moisture & Staining - Lack of sealing can allow spillages to penetrate stone over time, causing stubborn stains. But properly sealed and maintained, issues are rare. We offer detailed sealing guidance and aftercare support.

Slip Potential - While riven provides grip, smooth sandstone may become slippery when wet. Mitigate risk through added treatments in high-traffic zones. Opt for textured versions instead.

Surface Damage - Being softer than granite, sandstone can be prone to scratches from unprotected furniture movement. Damage is easily avoided by laying outdoor mats beneath tables and being careful when shifting items.

Extreme Temps - Rapid heating/cooling of stone may cause cracks. Proper base prep and avoiding laying in extreme heat minimizes this. Gradual temp changes are fine.

Our Indian Sandstone Collection

Browse our hand-selected sandstone slabs range, showcasing the diversity of natural Indian stone—from subtle creamy neutrals to vivid jewel tones brimming with sandy character.

We offer everything from matte riven patio slabs alongside precisely sawn contemporary options in smart geometries.

Is Indian Sandstone Good Quality?

Indian sandstone provides sufficient strength for regular domestic use, including as an underfoot surface for parking vehicles, making it suitable for driveways and patios. The stone also offers adequate durability for these regular domestic underfoot applications in driveways and patio areas when vehicles are parked on it.

Does Indian Sandstone Get Slippery?

Indian sandstone is known for its slip-resistant surface, making it a suitable choice for areas where slip resistance is a key consideration, such as around pools or in high-traffic locations. The non-slip characteristic of Indian sandstone contributes to its ability to provide a safe walking surface in these types of settings.

How Long Does Indian Sandstone Last?

Indian sandstone paving is a durable and long-lasting choice for outdoor spaces. The natural stone is strong and impact-resistant once laid, eliminating concerns about potential damage. With its hard-wearing properties, Indian sandstone paving can maintain its attractive appearance for 20-30 years or more with minimal maintenance.

Does Sandstone Offer Better Grip than Porcelain?

Yes, the naturally cleft riven texture of most Indian sandstone provides inherent traction underfoot, unlike smooth porcelain slabs, which can become slippery when wet. Sandstone suits pool surrounds, but porcelain is harder wearing for high traffic.

Is Sandstone Warmer Underfoot than Limestone or Concrete Paving?

Absolutely, the porous nature and earthy sandy hues allow sandstone to absorb and retain heat from the sun far better, keeping patios or paths warmer in winter. Meanwhile, smooth limestone slabs or stark concrete slabs remain chilly.

Can I Create Patterned Patios with Sandstone?

Yes, you can lay sandstone in an array of eye-catching layouts! We offer precision-cut circle packs and rectangle slabs options alongside versatile patio slab collections to create neat grid, basket weaves, offset, and more. Additionally, our range of sandstone paving colours ensures that every design is not only unique in layout but also in its vibrant and natural hues, perfectly bringing your paving ideas to life.