Learn the critical differences between Limestone and Sandstone
Are you looking for a paving option that is both beautiful and durable? If so, you may consider using sandstone or limestone type of stone paving. Both materials are easy to work with and can last for years.
This easy-to-follow comparison guide outlines some key differences between Sandstone and Limestone Paving.
Sandstone Paving Slabs
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of grains of sand with a high quartz and feldspar content held together by silicon-based cement. It has various colours, textures and toughness, attributed to the 'cement' that binds the grains together. The weaker this cementitious material is, the poorer quality of the stone. It can be found in many places throughout the world. The majority of sandstone paving slabs used in the UK come from India. The names of the pavers vary depending on the supplier.
Limestone Paving Slabs
Limestone is a sedimentary rock predominately made up of minerals called calcite (calcium carbonate) found in the ocean and caves. It gets formulated from a lime discharge from coral and algae accumulated on the seabed floor. Due to the different layers of hard sediment that contain traces of fossils from shellfish and other sea animals, limestone is available in various colours, including blue, yellow and black.
The key things to consider when deciding between Sandstone and Limestone Paving
Sandstone vs Limestone Paving Cost
Sandstone vs Limestone Paving Strength
Sandstone vs Limestone Paving Appeal
Sandstone vs Limestone Paving Maintenance
Cost
A few factors dictate the cost of Limestone and Sandstone Pavers. It all depends on their cut, thickness and quality. Generally speaking, limestone is slightly more expensive than sandstone. There are many reasons for this: it is harder to find and quarry, it takes more time and effort to mill it into thin sheets, and it requires a higher degree of precision in its cutting.
Strength
Both sandstone and limestone are notoriously durable and weather-resistant materials that have been used for thousands of years before being quarried for paving. While sandstone does absorb a bit more water than limestone, both are relatively water-resistant, so you don't need to worry about them getting wet even if you reside in an area of the UK prone to rain. They have different densities, making limestone much stronger under pressure but sandstone harder and better resistant against heat and impact.
Appeal
There are a few aspects of visual appearance to consider when deciding between sandstone and Limestone Paving Slabs. Both materials are widely available in different colours and patterns, but sandstone is the winner with a vast array of colours available. Limestone has a small number of variations by comparison. The main feature thanks which limestone pavers stand out is the smooth and silky texture that makes them the perfect candidate for bare feet on summertime lounging surfaces. On the other hand, sandstone is a better choice for poolside surrounds, as it provides a non-slip surface that maintains a moderate temperature.
Maintenance
Both porous and non-porous stone slabs are stunning, but they also require little maintenance to keep them looking their best. Our advice for bot surfaces is the same.
As algae can cause large build-ups on any stone type surface, leading to deterioration, regular scrubbing with a broom or a pressure washer will help prevent this from happening.
Sealing sandstone slabs is also an excellent way of preventing staining and the growth of moss and algae by blocking the excess water from seeping into the stone. Sealing Limestone slabs will always help to avoid excessive fading.
Conclusion
The competition is close in all areas when choosing between Sandstone and Limestone Paving. Both materials are strong, durable, low maintenance, and visually appealing. Whichever paving choice you make depends on your preferences, property type, project and desired outcome. If you are still unsure which option to go for, it may be helpful to ask whether the silky, delicacy and elegance or coarse texture and non-slip features will benefit the project most.
If you would like some paving installed, please look at our Paving Services in Hamshire or Surrey.
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