What is Sandstone Paving?
Sandstone paving refers to outdoor landscaping and flooring materials like patio slabs, tiles, coping stones composed of naturally formed sedimentary stone. Sandstone is commonly seen in driveways, garden paths, pool sides, terraces and more thanks to its visual appeal, grip, longevity and cost-efficiency.
Sandstone’s origin comes from the accumulation of sand-sized mineral and rock grains, sandstone’s journey begins as these components are deposited by water, wind, or ice. Underground over many millennia, immense heat and pressure then fuse the quartz, mineral grains, and other deposits together into solid sandstone. This transformation from loose sand to coherent rock is a fascinating aspect of its origin. Later quarried into blocks, this hardwearing stone offers unique advantages as a paving option, showcasing the durability and aesthetic appeal that result from its natural formation process.
What Makes Sandstone Good for Paving?
As explored on this Pros & Cons page, key benefits of sandstone for gardens and landscapes include:
Natural Beauty – Distinctive sandy patterns reflecting the stone’s origins enhance aesthetics .
Textured Finish – Riven sandstone like Indian Sandstone retains a non slip surface safe even when wet.
Durability – Made of compressed compounds, it withstands weathering and wear from traffic.
Affordability – Sandstone is a More budget friendly paving material.
Sandstone Types for Paving Projects
There are options when selecting sandstone for your landscaping vision.
By Colour
Hues vary dramatically from light colours of silvery greys through deeper earthy browns influenced by mineral composition. Laid with lighter cream tiles or pavers, characterful grey shades like popular Kandla Grey Indian Sandstone can create striking effects.
By Finish
Finish impacts visual appeal and practical factors like slip resistance once installed outdoors. Sandstone comes in two main surface textures:
Smooth Polished – Honed and made level to extend laying options including grids and flat planes across gardens. But these finely worked faces may become more slippery underfoot, especially when wet.
Riven Natural – Characterful undulating texture allows sandy grains, ripples and cleavage patterns to stand out. Provides good grip. Suited to organic styles.
Shape and Size
Paving dimensions depend on intended use. Larger flagstones work for driveways while smaller patio packs keep projects affordable. We offer convenient full kits covering set areas along with individual components. Precision cut shapes lend modern gardens geometric definition.
Porcelain or Stone?
Tradeoffs arise between natural sandstone vs porcelain for paving jobs. Harder porcelain paving resists damage but lacks incomparable variation and warmth often desired for standout garden designs that edge living spaces.
Caring for Sandstone Paving
Sealing sandstone once fully installed provides a protective barrier against stains from spillages while allowing the paving to breathe. But always follow manufacturer guidelines. Simple periodic maintenance keeps the stone looking its best. Learn more about caring for sandstone in our guide on cutting sandstone pavers.
