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Sandstone Driveway- Ultimate Guide, Maintenance, and Ideas

Sandstone driveway is popular for its incredible style and beauty. This natural stone comes in different colors that enhance the decorative touch of our homes or businesses. Natural sandstones are reliable in frosty conditions. They have high slip resistance and do not break or damage easily. If you want to pave your driveway right now, sandstone paving is an incredible option.

Sandstone driveway is a strong and heavy natural stone paving with colors ranging from grey to red. It is a sedimentary rock made up of cemented sand or quartz grains. Compared to other driveway pavers, sandstone paving slabs will last longer and are better for the environment since they have less carbon and energy footprint. It has proven to be a durable investment and an outstanding option for all outdoor applications.

It’s easy to decide on sandstone paving installation yourself, but you should be sure of what you are getting into and how to go about it. This article will answer all your questions and help you decide on the best sandstone for your driveway.

Are Sandstones Good For Driveways?

Your driveway is the first thing people come in contact with when they visit your home or business places. The first appeal draws them in and speaks about your capability. This is why it is vital to consider a driveway material that is suitable and appropriate for your driveway. Sandstone, a sedimentary rock made up of cemented sand or quartz grains, comes in different colors. It is a popular choice among homeowners because of its appearance and high resistance to weather conditions. Sandstone is a durable paving material. Typically comes in yellow, red, or brown.

Construction is underway on a sandstone driveway

Is Sandstone Paving Slippery?

Sandstone is one of the best and toughest natural stone paving materials you will find around. However, it needs quality maintenance to maintain its integrity. Due to its composition, sandstone paving has a degree of slip resistance that always makes it safe. When sandstone is maintained regularly, the surface will remain free from debris, algae, or moss. This bacterial growth on driveway pavings affects the natural slip-resistant sandstone and causes damage to the surface.

Is Sandstone Paving Durable?

Sandstone is very strong and durable when maintained and cared for. Once install your sandstone paving on your driveway, it can last decades with annual sealing and proper maintenance. Sandstone, as earlier stated, is a tough paving material that’s easy to care for, and its unique finish provides a pattern that is not out of style. A wide range of sandstone paving material has been made available for driveways, and you don’t have to worry about its durability once you have installed it. Also, sandstone driveway isn’t just durable; this paving material is environmentally friendly. With sandstone paving material, you can change the look of your home or business places.

Is Sandstone Hard To Clean?

Maintaining your sandstone driveway isn’t as difficult as it seems. Sandstone slabs have an elegant appearance and an appealing texture that is easy to care for. Your sandstone driveway requires regular TLC. Your driveway cleaning routine can include an easy wash down with soapy water. This will take care of everyday dust or dirt, while a diluted bleach formula can be used monthly to like algae, moss, or any bacteria growing on the surface of your driveway. Before you start cleaning your driveway, there are a few things you would like to consider. This includes:

The Right Cleaning Solution

Acid-based cleaning solutions or harsh chemicals are toxic to your pavement, and they will cause your driveway to rust and deteriorate quickly. Soapy water is the best solution for your sandy stone. It does quick work of washing away any debris and stain immediately. When you spread your soapy water, you can gently scrub stains or dirt off your pavement. For lichens, algae, or moss, diluted bleach will take them off your driveway. The right cleaning solution will preserve the integrity of your driveway.

Rinse Your Sandstone After Scrubbing

After scrubbing your pavement, you will need to wash away the loosened dirt. Run clean water over your driveway using a bucket or a garden hose. You can repeat this step and ensure no cleaning solution is left behind. Your pavement will look neater and more appealing after a good bath!

The worker clean the driveway using pressure washer.

Power Wash Your Sandstone Paving

Another option you can explore is power washing your sandstone pavement. This method is helpful if you have a large driveway or want to clean your commercial driveways. When power washing your driveway, you must choose the right pressure to avoid damage. A slow setting or pressure will do you good, and too much pressure. Slowly wash the area and repeat to ensure it’s thoroughly clean before you take the machine down.

If you are considering installing sandstone for your driveway or already own one, here are some things you should note.

You will need a brush to keep the dirt away.
Sealing will help your driveway stay clean for a longer period.
You are removing any nearby water features to keep your driveway from staining.
When you choose power washing as your cleaning method, reduce the pressure and avoid washing too regularly.
Wear protective clothing when you want to clean your driveway and stay protected.

Washing your sandstone driveway isn’t too hard; you must be prepared to have some fun. Get into your washing clothes and start right away.

Can You Use Indian Sandstone On a Driveway?

Indian sandstone is known to provide a huge range of styles and patterns. You can manipulate this tough riven stone into an appealing rugged appearance. With Indian sandstone, you can decide to go the extra mile. You can choose between riven or tumbled Indian sandstones for your driveway, which will stay perfectly. Paving your home or business driveway with Indian sandstone adds value to your home or work, which can easily translate to thousands of dollars. Sandstone paving is the right choice to boost your home or property value.

Do You Need To Seal Sandstone?

Sandstones are porous and easily consume substance that drops on their surface. Their pores allow dust, debris, stains, or any harmful solution to penetrate easily. Sealing your sandstone driveway will prevent them from getting stained or damaged. During installation, you can use an impregnating sealer to effectively seal the surface and ensure it covers the entire pavement. With this, your driveway will last longer and stay clean for a very long period.

Further reading: Stone Sealers – How They Work and Guide to the Best Products

A Sandstone driveway with pattern designed.

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What Are The Disadvantages Of Using Sandstone?

Sandstone has many advantages that keep it at the top of the market. Its durability, uniqueness, look, and texture can be compared with other paving materials. It is common in many homes and businesses and has a few pitfalls you should look into before considering sandstone paving for your homes.

Sandstone Absorbs Water

Sandstone is a porous stone that absorbs water. Its absorption rate allows dirt, moss, algae, and liquid stains to get through. It also makes it possible for your sandstone paving to have stains or eventually lose its color and start to deteriorate.

Sandstone Can Be Slippery When It Lacks Maintenance

When sandstone becomes slippery, it becomes dangerous to you and your guests. When not cared for, dirt, bacteria, and standing water can settle on the surface and cause it to be slippery. This is why you should consider a proper storm drainage system and maintenance before Installing sandstone pavers on your driveway.

Sandstone Driveway Ideas

1. Grey Indian Sandstone

The grey Indian sandstone is simple yet classic. Kandla is great, durable, and a hundred percent sustainable. Kandla grey Indian sandstone will enhance the beauty of your driveway.

2. Indian Sandstone Cobbles

These Indian sandstone cobbles offer a very appealing and durable surface for your driveway. Indian sandstone can be used to complement areas of paving.

3. Rainbow and Sawn Sandstone

This sandstone is ideal for contemporary and traditional settings. Rainbow or sawn sandstone will deliver whatever style you want to your driveway.

4. Himalayan Sandstone Pavers

Himalayan sandstone pavers can be installed in any outdoor landscaping. With these slabs, your driveway will speak luxury. Thus pavers are slip-resistant, durable, and eco-friendly.

5. Silver Grey Sandstone

Silver-grey sandstone is very popular amongst homeowners. It has outstanding quality, value, and even thickness. Silver grey sandstones are easy to lay and are the perfect slabs for your DIY driveways.

6. Natural Paving Riven Sandstone

Natural paving sandstone is great for driveway paving. It’s durable, aesthetically pleasing, and worth the investment.

Conclusion

With the simplest maintenance, you can preserve the integrity of your sandstone driveway and watch it last the test of time. Knowing that sandstone pavement might take up a personality with time is important. This is also considered part of its beauty. Whatever the case, sandstone is a worthy investment you should be willing to make.

December 23, 2022/by admin

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Natural Stone Paving – Cost, Laying, And Maintenance

Homeowners all across the United States are beginning to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of natural stone paving. Granites, limestones, flagstones, sandstones, marble, bluestones, and travertines increase the aesthetic of patios, walkways, and driveways. They are also low-maintenance, durable, and offer versatile styles.

Natural stone paving is a more prestigious, durable, and stylish hardscape option than colored concrete because it was created by minerals that took thousands of years or longer to form. It is a choice for creating a genuinely distinctive outdoor living environment. Instead of requiring high-energy, fuel-burning processes that release significant volumes of CO2 into the environment, it can be extracted from the ground and processed using low-energy technology. This means natural stone pavers are recyclable in a way that concrete ones aren’t; in our eco-friendly world, this is a big deal.

Outdoor paving made of natural stone is often used for patios, driveways, and sidewalks. The materials are made by the forces of nature, as the name suggests. Choosing between natural stone and concrete would become even simpler because, in this article, we explore how to lay your natural stone paving, the benefits and why it is better than concrete.

What is natural stone paving?

Natural stone paving involves using slabs made from natural rocks to pave outdoor areas. So what are natural stone pavers?

Stone pavers are made from rocks, and they have different characteristics. Natural stone pavers include but are not limited to granite, sandstone, limestone, flagstone, travertine, bluestone, and rainbow sandstone. Natural pavers come in various colors, shapes, textures, and sizes.

How to lay natural stone paving?

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to lay your natural stone paving.

Choose Your Natural Stone paver

The first step to laying your natural stone paving starts with a choice. Deciding on the best natural stone paver can be stressful. You might be caught in between limestone or granite, sandstone or flagstone. The first step to laying your natural stone paving starts with making a choice.

The first step to laying your natural stone paving starts with making a choice. Mark The Area You Want To Pave

When you have decided on the paving stone to use, the next step is to define the area to be paved. You can do this with spray paint, grade stakes, or a string.

Dig Out The Area

The next step is digging out the area to be paved. Before digging, ensure you take out all obstacles. Ensure you dig a good and well-leveled hole. 6-8 inches of topsoil is needed to give it a base.

Lay your base material

Crushed rocks or gravel with moisture makes your work easier to carry out. Use crushed rocks about 3-4 inches for workable surfaces. When laying a base for a driveway, you need 5 inches or more.

Prepare Your Sand Base

The next step is to pour your second layer, the sand base. Your sand base is the strata between your base and your pavers. Pour about half an inch of sand on your rock and lay it out smoothly.

Lay Your Pavers

The final step is to lay your pavers gently. It’s good to start laying your stone slabs on a straight edge. Keeping your edges straight will determine the result.

If you notice a depression after laying your pavers, fill it up with more sand and if the stone pavers look a little bit higher than the rest, use a rubber mallet to level it carefully. A hammer, chisel, or diamond blade will help you do the work.

Restrain The Edges

The moment you are done laying your pavers, you will need to restrain the edges. This process is done with plastic, concrete, or steel strips. They prevent your stones from sliding apart.

Natural stone paving: how to clean and how to lay it

How to clean natural stone paving?

Simple cleaning routines will help your natural stone pavers stand the test of time, look beautiful and remain clean. The number of times you will need to clean your natural stone paving depends on several factors, including the season you are in. In the fall, your stone pavers need to be cleaned regularly to reduce the number of fallen leaves and ensure they don’t decompose on your stones.

Use the Right Cleaning Product

Using the right cleaning substance is the first step in cleaning your natural stone paving. Avoid harsh substances in the quest to get your natural stone pavers looking neat and spotless. Go for a cleaning agent that has a neutral pH level.

Regular Sweep

A good sweep once a week will boost the lifespan of your landscape. Clean off the debris and keep fallen leaves away from your patios or driveways.

Clean Up Spills

Stone pavers are susceptible to damage from high or low-pH; when you spill juice or food, ensure that you clean it off. Also, clean off any stain before it settles on your natural stones. If your stone paving is installed over a large area, employ ride-on cleaning machines or pressure cleaners to do the job for you and remove debris where your brooms can’t reach.

Seal Your Patios Or Driveways Regularly

Sealing your natural stone paving will do more good to your driveways. Sealing protects your pavement from cracking easily and prevents moisture from settling into your stone pavers.

Replacement

Sometimes, the only choice you will be left with is to replace the severely damaged or stained areas or stones. Replacing just an area or stone won’t cost a hand and a leg.

Should natural stone be sealed?

Like other materials, sealing helps maintain and protect your patios or driveways from cracks, dirt, and stains. Sealing also improves the aesthetic of your paved surface and prolongs the lifespan of your natural stones.

How to seal natural stone paving?

Using a sealant can improve the lifespan of your natural stone pavers and your patios, driveways, or walkways. Ensure that you choose the most suitable sealant for your natural stone pavers. Once you’ve purchased your sealant, you can carefully follow these steps to seal your pavement;

Clean The Surface To Be Sealed

To seal your natural stone, you must ensure that your walkways, patios, or driveways are clean and free from debris.

Check Your Weather Forecast

Sealing must be done on a dry surface. An unexpected rain will destroy your work. It would help if you had a temperature range of 5°c – 20°c.

Protect yourself

If you easily get upset by smell, wear a mask and protective clothing.

Test your sealant

Using a small area, seal gently to ensure you have a suitable sealant. Once you have confirmed that you have a suitable sealant, apply the first coat of sealant around the paved area. This is the impregnation coat.

Apply the second coat

Apply the second coat of sealant, surface protection; you must let it dry. To get a fine finish, walk back in the opposite direction and ensure you don’t seal any patches or debris.

Allow To Dry

Allow drying for 3-4 hours. And your natural stone paving is dried and ready for use.

Natural Stone Vs. Concrete

There is no doubt that choosing between concrete and natural stone can be a bit confusing for many. Although concrete is inexpensive and appears colorful, they have several backlashes that make natural stone paving stand out.

Maintenance

Maintaining stone pavers is less difficult compared to concrete. Stone pavers barely develop cracks; they are easy to fix if they crack. The repair cost is not as expensive as the cost of repairing concrete.

Style choices and Aesthetic

Because stone pavers are natural rocks that come in different natural colors, sizes, and shapes, you wouldn’t have to worry about installing a boring style. Your style choices are versatile to fit the project you have in mind.

Easy Installation

Installing concrete is quite demanding; labor, grading, and backfilling will stress you out. And because concrete easily cracks, you must be super careful and diligent. On the brighter side, stone pavers will always save the day. You can install your stone pavers by yourself. The time and effort it takes are enough to allow you to have fun on your patio.

Durability

Natural stone pavers or rocks are eco-friendly and 100% sustainable. Stone pavers look beautiful as they age.

Limestone is a natural stone used for paving

Is natural stone cheaper than pavers and concrete?

Concrete is less costly than natural stone. This is because they require fewer resources to manufacture and are more affordable per square foot.

Natural stone is more expensive than concrete and other paving materials. Stone pavers require more time and resources to manufacture; however, the overall cost of natural stone paving depends on the size of the space to be covered and your budget.

The average cost to install natural stone pavers is between $17.17- $22:89 per square foot, and the total cost will depend on other factors. Location, area covered, e.t.c.

Conclusion

Natural stone paving is one of the best methods of paving your patios, walkways, or driveways. Natural stone pavers will stand the test of time when it comes to your patio, walkway, or driveway lifespan.

October 13, 2022/by admin

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Paving With Sandstone Slabs – The Ultimate Guide

With such a wide variety of paving options on the market today, you’re probably wondering whether or not sandstone slabs are right for you.

With versatility, durability, and a massive range of colors, sandstone slabs are one of the best paving options on the market today, used for a wide range of projects, including patios, gardens, and outdoor spaces.

If you want to know how to use sandstone for your next paving project, continue reading to learn all you need to know!

How Much Do Sandstone Slabs Cost?

Sandstone is one of the best mid-range paving options, which is one of the reasons why so many people use it for their outdoor projects. On average, you’ll end up spending around $30 to $50 per linear foot on the slab.

For stone steps in an average-sized backyard, this price per linear foot equates to about $1,700 to $4,500.

Not sure if sandstone is the right stone for your needs?

Check out our guide:

Sandstone vs. Limestone – An In-Depth Comparison Guide

Can You Seal Sandstone Slabs?

While you can seal your sandstone slabs, you don’t necessarily have to.

Think about it like this:

Natural stone has survived for thousands of years without the need for any chemical sealants. Even if you don’t give it a layer of sealant, it won’t wither away. However, with that said, there are benefits to sealing your sandstone slabs.

For starters, sandstone is a very porous material, meaning it will absorb water quicker than other stones, and stains can be nearly impossible to remove over time. So, if you have your sandstone paving in an area that gets wet really often and you want to maintain a pristine look, you may choose to seal your sandstone.

Of course, some people like the natural look of sandstone without sealant. The way that it ages over time is like a fine wine, so it’s truly up to how “perfect” you want it to look many years down the line.

Can You Paint Sandstone Slabs?

Yes, you can paint sandstone, though it can be a very difficult process that requires a lot of care.

You need to begin by cleaning your sandstone thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris that may be on its surface. To get rid of this dirt and debris, you can use a cloth. You don’t want to use sandpaper, which is a material often used when cleaning other stones, as it can be damaging.

After your sandstone is clean, you can apply your primer. Make sure it is neutral in color. To apply your primer, follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. We recommend using a spray gun, as it will allow you to get an even coat over the entire stone.

After you’ve applied your primer, you can start applying a coat of latex paint. The color you choose is up to you. We recommend using a spray gun for this portion of the process again, as it can make sure the entire job is evenly done.

Lastly, we recommend applying a clear sealant to ensure the paint is protected against any damage, especially if your stones are outside and exposed to the elements.

We highly recommend looking at rainbow sandstone if you want sandstone with a unique color.

Check it out in our guide:

Rainbow Sandstone – What Is It And When To Use It

How To Lay Sandstone Patio Slabs

Let’s look at a step-by-step of how to lay sandstone patio slabs.

Choose Your Area: The first thing you’ll need to do is decide where you want to lay your sandstone pavers. This area should be level, firm, and have good drainage. We recommend marking the area using some spray paint.

Start Digging: Using a small shovel or your hands, start digging until your sandstone area is 125mm deep + the depth of the pavers. When finished, your area should be about 150mm deeper than the surrounding area.

Level It Out: Create a level plane using a rake and string line. Once you have a level space, you can compact the area using a tamper or garden roller.

Fill In The Sub-Base: You’ll want to provide some sub-base beneath the stones for better hold and drainage. We recommend using a mixture of crushed stone and dust, filling and compacting at least 50mm.

Wash Your Stones: Remove any dust or dirt from your stones with some water.

Prime Your Stones: Using fine mortar slurry or a proprietary priming product of your choice, prime the backs of your stones.

Mix Up Your Mortar: To create your mortar mix, you’ll use one part water and cement and four parts sand. To make sure you can work with it, your mortar mix should be a “wet” consistency.

Spread It: Take your mortar mixture and spread it evenly across the area that you just dug out, and use a roller t level it off. This should fill out another 30mm of your bed.

Lay Your Stones Down: Lay your sandstone units down. You’ll want to make sure that they are around 8-10mm apart from one another. To make sure they are firmly locked in the bed of mortar, you can use a rubber mallet to tap on the stones lightly.

Fill The Joints: Next, you will want to take your mortar mix and fill in the joints using a trowel. Again, make sure that your mortar is “wet” in consistency so that you can work with it. You can then use your pointing tool to compress the mortar mix.

Allow It To Sit: Before walking on your sandstone, allow it to set for around 24 hours at least. If you live in a wet climate, you can allow it to sit for a bit longer.

If you want a better visual for laying your sandstone pavers down, you can check out this video:

How Do You Clean Sandstone Patio Slabs?

Keeping your sandstone pavers clean is actually quite simple. If you only need to give your sandstone a gentle cleaning, you can use a mixture of soap and water. However, if you’re dealing with tougher stains, you can use heavier cleaners, such as bleach.

Bleach works great when you have heavy algae or moss stains.

To make a bleach mixture for your sandstone, you can combine an equal mixture of water and bleach and pour it onto your slabs. You can then leave the mixture sitting on your stones for around 30 minutes before washing it off with a hose or power washer.

Make sure that you’ve washed off all the bleach, as you do not want it sitting on your stone.

How To Get Paint Off Of Sandstone Slabs

If you’ve recently found paint on your sandstone slabs and you want to get rid of it, there are a couple of methods you can try. We always recommend starting with the least aggressive method first before moving on to heavy-duty methods.

The least aggressive method is to let your stones weather. This means letting the paint deteriorate naturally with the weather.

If that doesn’t work, you can move on to water washing, including scrubbing or gentle sponging. We recommend using a soft bristle brush if you can’t get it off with a cloth or sponge alone. If that doesn’t work, you can move on to steam stripping. To do this, you can use a low-pressure, superheated steam stripper. This method is great for emulsions or other water-thinned paints. It’s an excellent way to clean paint from stone without stripping the stone’s surface.

If all else fails, you can use a solvent or non-caustic chemical removers. These are reasonably aggressive, though not as aggressive as alkaline or caustic chemical removes like potash or caustic soda, which can damage the stone. Non-caustic chemicals are great for latex-based paints.

If you have another kind of paint on your sandstone slabs, we recommend getting in touch with a professional cleaner.

How To Remove Cement Stains From Sandstone Slabs

If you have cement stains on your sandstone, don’t fret. There are methods for removal.

One of the best methods is to clean it with muriatic acid, otherwise known as hydrochloride acid. You can simply dilute this solution with water to remove the cement from your sandstone. However, this needs to be done with caution, as acidic cleaners can break down dolomitic cement or calcite, which holds many types of sandstone together.

It’s a good idea to test out a small portion of your stone before moving on to the rest. You can dilute four parts of water and one part of muriatic acid to test out your stone. If the diluted acidic mixture doesn’t fizz when it hits the surface of your sandstone, you’re probably good.

Final Thoughts

There you have it; all you need to know about paving with sandstone slabs. If you have any other questions regarding paving with sandstone, or you just want to get more advice on paving in general, make sure to head on over to our blogs.
Here at Paving Finder, we’re always looking to help people find the right paving services for their needs. See how joining our pro network can help you seek out the best professionals.

August 11, 2022/by admin

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Sandstone Paving – A Guide For Your Patios and Driveways

Sandstone paving is a unique and aesthetically-pleasing way to enhance your patios and driveways. Of course, with so many different types of paving stones available, how can you know if sandstone is the right choice for you?

Sandstone is easy to install, simple to maintain, more sustainable than concrete, and looks great for tons of different applications, making it one of the most popular choices for driveways and patios.

Come with us as we discuss the ins and outs of sandstone paving so you can determine whether or not it is the right choice for you.

What Is Sandstone?

Sandstone is an ultra-common sedimentary rock that consists of clasts (or grains of materials, organic matters, and sand) that is anywhere from 0.06 to 2mm.

People classify different forms of sandstone by clasts. There are three different grains that these clasts are typically divided into, including:

grain type	clast size
Fine-grains	0.06 to 0.2mm
Mid-grains	0.2 to 0.6mm
Coarse-grains	0.6 to 2mm

There are also different categories that we divide our sandstone into based on their mineral composition:

Lithic Grains – These grains are made from sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks.
Feldspar Grains – These grains are made from Plagioclase feldspar or alkali.
Quartz Grains – These grains are predominantly made from quartz minerals and have the longest capacities of the bunch.

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Is Sandstone Good For Paving?

There are plenty of different types of natural stone that are great for paving, though people often use sandstone for exterior applications.

So, why is this?

Let’s look at a few reasons why so many homeowners are using sandstone for their outdoor paving applications.

Aesthetically Pleasing

Sandstone comes in a wide range of hues and colors, allowing you to find one that fits in with your surroundings with ease. Each piece of sandstone is adorned with natural beauty. Whether you want a bit of contrast or cohesion with the surrounding area, sandstone allows for it.

You’ll find various grains and veins in different patterns and densities in the natural world.

Great In Wet Areas

Sandstone is a porous stone, meaning it’s not the best option for areas that get wet often. However, if you seal your sandstone or give it a proper chemical treatment, you can use it around a swimming pool and enjoy a beautiful, non-slip surface.

Sandstone comes with anti-skid properties thanks to its slightly rough texture, perfect for those who want a sturdier wet surface.

Easy To Maintain

If you use proper surface treatments or sealants, it is easy to clean your sandstone. To wash away dirt, dust, and mild staining, you can use something as simple as plain water or a mild washing detergent.

The beauty of sandstone compared to concrete is that it is composed of individual tiles or blocks, not a single, large entity.

So, for example, if one of the tiles or blocks gets damaged, you can rip up the damaged piece without messing up the rest of the floor. Plus, it’s often very easy to match pieces, so you don’t have to have an eye sore in your outdoor space.

Great For Stepping Stones

Because sandstone is durable, hard, and weather-resistant, it is a great choice for stepping stones in your landscape design. You can even decide to put your sandstone in highly trafficked areas without any worry.

Sustainable and Renewable

Compared to concrete, sandstone is far more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Of course, there are a few additional manufacturing costs associated with shaping, packaging, and transporting sandstone, though if you’re looking to minimize your carbon footprint while beautifying your backyard, sandstone is one of the best choices around.

Check out our sandstone vs. limestone paving guide for an in-depth comparison.

The process of installing sandstone for the construction of a patio

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Sandstone Paving In Driveways

Sandstone is great for driveways, as it is one of the most durable natural stones around. People will often use sandstone to build block pavers. Beyond the fact that sandstone looks great, it is very strong, allowing for heavy load-bearing.

Sandstone Paving In Patios

People often use sandstone paving in patios, thanks to the fact that they offer tons of flexibility during the installation process. You can makeover your patio in any way you deem fit using any kind of sandstone that works for you.

One of the great things about sandstone is that it is ultra-malleable, allowing you to make intricate designs for your patio in your garden or backyard. You can also find sandstone that works with your budget, as there are many tiers of this wonderful material out there.

Homeowners will often have their sandstone treated to make it glossy or semi-glossy. On the other hand, you might want a more natural look by maintaining the uneven and porous texture that your sandstone naturally comes with.

It’s difficult to find this type of natural look anywhere else!

Are Sandstone Patios Expensive?

Thanks to the fact that sandstone is a natural stone material, it is one of the least expensive paving options out there. On average, you will pay anywhere between $10 to $20 per square foot for your sandstone.

Check out our article, How Much Does It Cost To Pave A Driveway, for more in-depth information on the costs you can expect.

Different Types of Sandstone Paving

1. Riven Sandstone Paving

One of the best styles of sandstone paving for adding a rustic, textured feel to your space is riven sandstone paving.

With riven sandstone paving, you get individual pieces of sandstone that range in terms of thickness. It’s very important that you lay these pieces of sandstone down carefully to make them properly aligned and stable.

2. Calibrated Sandstone Paving

If you want to keep the thickness of your stones as consistent as possible, we highly recommend going with calibrated stone paving. This type of paving is very popular because it is the most uniform. Calibrated stone paving makes for a far more uniform cut. These stones are much easier to transport and lay down.

You’ll find that these types of slabs are 22mm in thickness, though the thickness can change if they are cut by hand.

3. Sawn Sandstone Paving

Sawn sandstone paving, sometimes referred to as honed sandstone paving, will go through several unique processes to give you a modern aesthetic.

These stones are cut using machines down to the nearest millimeter. The stones are then buffed, giving you the smoothest finish possible. If you’re working on a modern landscaping project, we highly recommend sawn sandstone paving.

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How Long Does Sandstone Paving Last?

One of the great things about sandstone is that it can last for many years if you take care of it, which is one of the reasons it has become so popular for outdoor applications. They don’t break very easily, allowing you to handle them effectively without worry.

All you have to do is wipe or spray them down every now and then to make sure they stay shiny and clean. Compared to other types of natural stones, sandstone is one of the most reliable stones out there.

Using Indian sandstone or rainbow sandstone and high-quality sealant, you can expect your sandstone to last anywhere from 30 to 50 years. On the other hand, if you use cheap quality materials and don’t take care of your sandstone, you can end up having to replace them in 2 to 10 years.

Do You Need To Seal Sandstone Paving?

Unless there is a good reason for sealing your sandstone paving, we would not recommend it. We often see people botch their sealant jobs, ruining the natural look of the stone. Unfortunately, restoring your stone after you have already sealed it is impossible. You need to make sure that applying sealant is something you actually want to do.

If you live in a place with inclement weather, including extreme heat, rain, or snow, sealing your sandstone paving can help protect it so that it lasts longer. It’s important to choose a sealer that suits the color of your sandstone and that you’re careful when reading your sealing directions.

If you use a high-quality sealant, you should only need to reapply it every three years or so.

A man is using pressure washers to clean a sandstone paving.

Related Articles:

Can You Pressure Wash Sandstone Paving?

Because sandstone paving is naturally resistant to chemicals and erosion, it is one of the best for resisting pressure washing. You don’t have to worry about pressure washing damaging your sandstone material.

However, if your stones weren’t laid correctly or are placed too close together, you might notice sudden dislodgement or movement when you spray them with high-pressure water.

The good thing is that you won’t have to pressure wash very often, as sandstone does not stain very easily. Oils and moisture in the sandstone will eventually stain if you leave them sitting there for long periods, though if you’re diligent about cleaning and wiping your sandstone down, you shouldn’t have to worry about this.

We recommend using a high-quality sealant to block out extraneous moisture.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, sandstone is one of the best options for outdoor applications, all thanks to its versatility, reliability, and ease of use. If you want to beautify your house with natural colors or create a safe, non-slip outdoor space, we highly recommend looking into using sandstone for your next project.

August 4, 2022/by admin

Tips

Rainbow Sandstone – What Is It and When To Use It

People often wonder if rainbow sandstone is as magical as it sounds.

Rainbow sandstone has a smooth finish and unique rainbow pattern. This popular characteristic makes it the perfect choice for those who want to add a semblance of luxury to their interior and exterior spaces.

Of course, having a decent understanding of a type of stone before making a purchase for your paving project is crucial.

Come dive in as we explore everything there is to know about rainbow sandstone.

What Is Rainbow Sandstone?

Rainbow sandstone is a popular type of sandstone that is found in quarries in Rajasthan’s Nagaur District. Some people also refer to it as Khatu Rainbow Sandstone or Indian Sandstone. One of the unique characteristics that set Rainbow Sandstone apart from other types of sandstone is the thin lines or stripes of color that run across its surface. This includes shades of red, violet, and brown.

With these veins running in parallel with each other, the stone ends up having a rainbow look.

Beyond its rainbow-like aesthetic, it also has a smooth finish, making it wonderful for both interior and exterior projects, especially for those who want an added luxurious feel.

When adding premium-grade sandstone to your home, you can bring a warm and charming natural quality that catches the eye. Every stone offers a unique pattern with varying swirls of color. On the surface, it’s pretty easy to see why this has become such a popular stone.

Characteristics of Rainbow Sandstone

Made In – Slabs, Tiles, and Countertops.
Uses – Flooring, Wall Tiles, and Countertops.
Finishing – Flamed, Gangsaw, and Polish.
Primary Colors – Brown.
Country – India.

How Do You Lay Rainbow Sandstone?

While every paving project is different, there are some basic rules to follow when laying Rainbow Sandstone (or any type of sandstone, for that matter).

Let’s go over the basics in step-by-step order:

1.Find The Area

First, you’ll want to determine where you’re going to lay your sandstone. You’ll want to make sure the area is level, firm, and well-drained. If you can, mark the area out with spray paint so you can get a visual of exactly where you’ll lay your stone.

2. Start Digging

You’ll then want to dig the spray-painted area at least 125mm deep + the depth of your paving materials. Remove all of the topsoil and vegetation from the area as well. When finished digging, you should have a minimum of 150mm.

3. Ensure The Area Is Level

Using measure falls and string lines, you’ll need to ensure that the area you are laying your stones is level. Once these tools are in place, compact the area using a tamper or garden roller.

4. Leave Space For Your Base

Using any sub-base material from dust to crushed stone, you’ll want to fill in a 50mm layer and compact it to lay your stone on top. Once filled and compacted, repeat the process one more time until you have 100mm of overall sub-base.

PRO TIP – Make sure that your area has a place for water to run off, so it does not pool.

5. Wash Your Stone

Remove any dirt or dust from your stones by giving them a good wash. You can use a sponge to wipe your stones down before putting them into place.

6. Prime Your Stone

Using fine mortar slurry or a proprietary priming product, prime the back of your stones.

7. Mix Up Your Mortar

Using four parts sand to one part water, create your mortar mix. You’ll want to make sure that the consistency of the mortar mix is “wet” so that it is easy to work with.

8. Spread Your Mortar Mix

Start with a small area of your layout and spread your mortar mix so that it is level. You’ll want it to be somewhere around 30mm in thickness.

How to lay your rainbow sandstone paving

9. Lay Your Stone

Start laying your sandstone units in your bed of mortar one stone at a time. Each stone should be anywhere from 8 to 10mm apart. To ensure your stones fit firmly into place, you can tap down on them with a rubber mallet.

10. Case the Joints

Create more mortar mix using four parts sand to one part water. Make sure that the consistency of this mortar mix is “wet” like before. Take this mortar mix and fill your joints using a trowel. To compress the mortar mix into the joints between your stones, you can use a pointing tool.

11. Let It Settle

Allow your Rainbow Sandstone paving to dry before you walk on it. We recommend waiting at least 24 hours. However, if you live in a wet or humid environment, we recommend waiting longer.

What Is The Best Sandstone?

There is no single type of sandstone that is better than another. However, there are certainly different grades or tiers of sandstone that you can purchase. For example, if you want to purchase Indian Sandstone for your garden paving project, you’ll want to make sure that the sandstone has a uniform texture and a fine grain.

You’ll also want to make sure that you’re buying from a reputable dealer, as they’ll be able to provide you with details about the exact type of sandstone you’re purchasing and how to take care of it.

How Long Does Rainbow Sandstone Last?

If installed and maintained with proper care, Rainbow Sandstone can last for a very long time. On the other hand, if you install it on the cheap, don’t provide it with care, or use low-quality materials, you might only be able to expect anywhere from 2-10 years out of it.

With the right materials, a solid base, and proper care (ex. Repointing every couple of years), you can get anywhere from 30 to 50 years out of your sandstone.

There are many Rainbow Sandstone paths that have been down for more than 100 years without moving very much.

Does Indian Sandstone Keep Its Color?

Some people note that they have issues with their Indian Sandstone changing colors after a certain period. Depending on the type of sandstone you have and the conditions it is in, it can often turn yellow over time.

One of the best ways to get sandstone to return to its original color is by treating it with an acidic solution. Some people will even go as far as staining their sandstone if it is not sealed, which can give it an entirely different color altogether. However, the susceptibility of sandstone staining depends a lot on the density of the stone in question.

Some sandstone is much more porous than other types.

What Is The Best Indian Sandstone Color?

While there are many different colors of Indian Sandstone to choose from, one of the most popular on the current market (and for a good reason) is Raj Green. This color of Indian Sandstone offers a unique mix of earthy browns and greens that are very complementary when put alongside natural landscapes with grass and foliage.

Beyond that, Raj Green is one of the most versatile types of Indian Sandstone around, allowing you to use it for a number of unique projects.

Of course, there are many other colors to choose from as well, including grey, light grey, mint, and brown. Modac is a very popular color due to the fact that it changes color when wet. When dry, it looks like a blend of orange, plum, and pink. However, when wet, it looks more earthy.

Rainbow Sandstone Paving Ideas

Outdoor Patio

Rainbow Sandstone has an earthy look that works well with outdoor spaces. Thanks to the shades of green in many types of sandstone, it works naturally when set in next to grassy areas or gardens with plenty of foliage.

Take a look at this simple Rainbow Sandstone patio with a brick outline sitting next to a large grassy lawn.

Pool Area

Rainbow Sandstone works great next to pools for several reasons.

For starters, it has a slight texture on the surface that keeps it from getting too slick when wet, which can keep those hanging out around the pool safe at all times.

Secondly, many types of Rainbow Sandstone will have a slight change in color when wet, which results in a unique multicolor aesthetic that you can’t get from many other types of stones.

Check out some of the ways people have incorporated Rainbow Sandstone into their pool areas.

Pros of Rainbow Sandstone Paving

Durability

While Rainbow Sandstone isn’t as durable as slate or granite, it is more than durable enough to last for many years if properly taken care of. Once installed, Rainbow Sandstone can last for many decades, even in environments that receive inclement weather often.

Beauty

There is an undeniable and ineffable quality that you get with Rainbow Sandstone that is difficult to find elsewhere. You get a natural beauty from Rainbow Sandstone that complements many spaces and designs.

One of the great things about Rainbow Sandstone is that you can choose from a wide variety of colors, from green to white to brown and beyond. The stretch of hues is so versatile, making Rainbow Sandstone great for several projects.

Beyond that, you get an earthy texture that you won’t find in any imitations.

Easy To Replace

Because you install sandstone flooring using individual pieces and tiles, you can easily remove and replace tiles if they crack or break. We always recommend saving some tiles from your initial installation in case anything happens. It can be difficult to source the exact color of Rainbow Sandstone tile years down the line, if not impossible. This is why many quarries will stop producing certain varieties for a number of reasons.

Uniqueness

Sandstone pavers are all-natural. This means that every color, pattern, or hue found in these pavers is totally unique. When these massive slabs of stone are mined from the Earthy, they are cut into smaller pieces.

A builder can then rearrange these pieces at random to turn them into a masterful piece of architecture.

Cons of Rainbow Sandstone Paving

Of course, there are also many drawbacks to using Rainbow Sandstone as well, which are worth noting if you’re planning on making a big investment for a paving project.

Can Scratch

Rainbow Sandstone is a natural rock. Compared to many types of natural stone, however, it is very soft. This means that it is susceptible to dents and scratches over time. Dropping some heavy can easily crack a tile, or stepping the wrong way in a high heel can leave nasty scratches.

High Water Absorption

Most Rainbow Sandstone is very porous. In fact, the absorption rate of most types of sandstone is 6%, meaning it is more vulnerable to damage than other types of stone. If you live in extreme conditions, your Rainbow Sandstone could suffer from warping, liquid stains, molds, and micro-bacteria if not properly sealed and cared for.

If you are planning to install Rainbow Sandstone in a kitchen, bathroom, or pool area, spending time sealing it is extremely important.

Cost

Rainbow Sandstone can get very expensive very fast. People often ask us how much it costs for certain projects, such as paving a driveway. While Rainbow Sandstone can certainly look a lot nicer than concrete, it will also cost a lot more.

Rainbow (and/or Indian) Sandstone Paving Problems

Two of the biggest problems with Indian Sandstone is that it can become soft and brittle over time and can become less vibrant under certain conditions.

For these reasons, it is important to source high-quality sandstone and seal it so that you can protect your paved area from deteriorating over the years.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re paving a driveway, creating a garden patio, or putting in some new steps next to the pool, Rainbow Sandstone is a great paving choice. It is certainly a higher-priced paving slab compared to many others, though it can provide a blend of earthiness and luxury that you won’t find in many other types of stone.

We highly recommend it for any kind of outdoor project!
For more information on paving projects, head over to our blog, where we share our expert advice on paving with all types of materials!

June 14, 2022/by admin

Tips

Sandstone Vs Limestone – An In-Depth Comparison Guide

As two of the most popular stones in the world for paving, people often wonder whether they should use sandstone or limestone when paving their driveways, patios, or gardens.

While you can use both Sandstone vs Limestone to achieve similarly fantastic looks, there are many differences to consider in terms of cost, durability, and overall aesthetic.

Come dive in with us as we explore the major differences between sandstone and limestone that you should note when making your decision.

What Is Limestone?

Limestone is what we refer to as a sedimentary rock. It’s formed out of several organic debris, including algae, coral, and shells. However, it can also be formed with chemical processes, such as calcium carbonate precipitation from ocean water or lakes. Scientists develop much of the Earth’s chronology thanks to studying fossils that are deeply embedded in limestone.

You can find most limestone in very shallow oceanic regions, such as continental platforms and shelves. While most limestone is gray, it can come in different colors depending on its natural composition, including brown, yellow, or white.

What Is Sandstone?

Sandstone is another type of sedimentary rock; its composition includes rock, minerals, and other organic materials. You can find sandstone all over the world, though there are large deposits in places like Germany, South Africa, and the United States.

Sandstone typically forms in the offshore regions of river deltas, where sand is deposited and buried. Over time, beaches and desert dunes can also leave large sandstone beds. While it is less widespread, scientists also often find fossils in sandstone.

In terms of color, you can find pretty wide-ranging fluctuations, moving from brown to yellow to red to orange.

Sandstone – How It Looks

Sandstone is fairly variable when it comes to textures and colors; it is a great option for those who want to go beyond uniformity. Many people feel that the color-grading found in sandstone is superior to that of limestone. No two pieces of sandstone will look the same.

Going for a golden sandstone is excellent for both indoor and outdoor projects.

In terms of texture, sandstone is more uneven than limestone, giving you a rippled look. We love sandstone with a sawn finish, as it provides a very contemporary look, even more than limestone in many ways. On the other hand, you can get a grittier texture with a bit more slip resistance by sand-blasting your sandstone. You’ll often find this texture along poolsides.

Limestone – How It Looks

Compared to sandstone, limestone has a texture that once could describe as flat or consistent. For this reason, limestone has become one of the most popular choices for covered courtyards and driveways. With such an even finish, many people opt to use limestone for indoor applications too.

White limestone is one of the best choices if you’re going for a cleaner, more uniform look. However, while limestone offers a smooth, uniform look for the most part, you can potentially expect a slight color variation from piece to piece.

Compared to sandstone, you can expect fewer ridges with limestone. With its unique and natural characteristics, you almost get an orange peel-like texture from it, as well as a natural split surface look.

Cost Of Sandstone Vs Limestone

When it comes to the cost of paving something like a driveway, sandstone is your best bet.

If you can get locally-sourced limestone rocks, you won’t end up paying very much. However, the minute you begin paying for quarried travertine and marbles, it can become extremely costly.

This is one of the major reasons that homeowners often opt for sandstone, as the cost isn’t nearly as high. Sandstone is also cheaper than concrete and cement in most cases, especially when locally available.

Beyond that, sandstone is much easier to work with than limestone, concrete, or cement; it means you also pay less for labor costs. Overall, when it comes to the affordability of sandstone vs limestone, sandstone is a pretty clear winner.

Composition of Limestone and Sandstone

Limestone has a very chalky texture thanks to its calcite composition. Overall, the composition of limestone is pretty consistent and plain.

On the other hand, the composition of sandstone includes various rocks and minerals, such as quartz and feldspar. This sedimentary rock can vary from piece to piece, giving it a unique composition compared to limestone.

Compared to limestone, there is more variability in the composition of sandstone

Sandstone Vs Limestone Durability

When it comes to the durability of sandstone vs limestone, both of these rocks are very sturdy and can last a long time under the right conditions. Both of these stones are able to endure tough weather, which is why they have become such popular choices for outdoor paving.

For generations, people used both of these stones to build large structures that still stand strong to this day. Beyond the similarities in terms of durability, sandstone is much easier to work with than limestone, as it is much softer. However, this also makes sandstone more susceptible to being scratched or dented, especially when using it for indoor projects.

On the other hand, sandstone is also denser than limestone, which is why you’ll see it in many construction projects.

It’s worth noting that because limestone is a calcite rock, it doesn’t mix well with strong acids. If you use strong acid washes on limestone, you can stain and ruin your limestone. With sandstone, you can clean and wash it with milder acids without much worry, though like Limestone, it doesn’t react well to very strong acids.

Another thing you might want to consider with durability is water absorption. Both of these rocks are fairly water-resistant, although sandstone is a bit more porous compared to limestone. When installing these rocks, especially in indoor applications, it’s important to apply some sort of sealant to the surface so that they aren’t as impacted by water.

PRO TIP

You might consider looking at the stones when they’re wet during your purchase. Doing so will give you a better idea as to which one best fit your requirements.

When all is said and done, we’d have to give the medal to limestone on this one. When you’re working with lightly-colored sandstone, it’s not surprising to see subtle differences when it absorbs water. While it won’t likely impact your stone that much, even the potential of a slight impact puts it just behind limestone.

Sandstone Vs Limestone Slip Resistance

Because sandstone has a naturally grainy and sandy texture, it is much more slip-resistant than limestone. We recommend using sandstone in areas that receive a lot of rainfall or areas that are consistently wet, such as around swimming pools.

That’s not to say that limestone is slippery, though polished limestone in indoor spaces should be avoided when it is wet, as it can be slippery to walk across.

Sandstone Vs Limestone Versatility

Both limestone and sandstone are ultra-versatile stones, which you can cut into various shapes and sizes for your need. No matter what kind of project you have, you can get these stones to fit within the bounds, which makes it quite difficult to find a “winner” in terms of versatility.

With such a wide range of colors and finishes, you can adapt these stones to just about any project.

Sandstone vs Limestone : which one sgould I choose?

Which One Should I Choose?

With all of the information above, you should be able to determine which of these rocks better suits your project.

If you’re working on landscaping, steps, pathways, decks, patios, or other outdoor projects, locally available limestone rocks can be a great choice. If you want to add a touch of luxury to your indoor decorations, such as countertops, cladding, flooring, sculptures, or fountains, exotic limestone, travertine, and marble are excellent choices.

Just note that these will cost you a bit more than sandstone.

On the other hand, sandstone is a tried and true material that humans use since ancient times to build entire buildings. However, today, you mostly find sandstone on driveways, around swimming pools, on patios, or throughout pathways.

Conclusion

Limestone and sandstone have very similar properties. But there are clearly a few differences that can help guide your decision.

While both of these stones are very effective and eco-friendly choices, we highly recommend going with limestone for indoor projects if you have the additional money to spend, though if you’re looking for the best stone for an outdoor project that’ll give you color and variation, sandstone is an excellent choice.

Make sure to get in touch with us at Paving Finder if you need any further help in making the best decision for your residential or commercial project. We help homeowners and project managers make the best choices for their paving needs based on their budgets and requirements.

June 3, 2022/by admin