What is natural stone paving?
As the name implies, natural stone paving is made from stone found naturally in the earth’s layers that is extracted in quarries. There are different types of natural stone used for paving, including slate, limestone, granite, marble, and sandstone. At Witham Timber, our natural paving stones are created from quality sandstone sourced only from responsible quarry owners.
Features of natural stone paving
The unique feature of natural stone paving is that no two pieces are alike. Each project using natural stone will have a unique pattern impossible to replicate. Sandstone paving is extremely popular thanks to the huge variety of colours available, and is relatively easy to cut and install. Durable and hardwearing, sandstone paving slabs are resistant to poor weather and frost, and are capable of withstanding heavy loads. Over time, natural stone paving slabs will weather and change colour. This does not suit everyone but the effects can be reduced if a sealer is applied at the time of installation.
Benefits of natural stone paving
- Easy to keep clean
- Wide choice of colours available
- More durable and more frost resistant than concrete
- Can be recycled (unlike concrete)
- Low maintenance
- Easy to work with
- Can add value to your property
Where to use natural stone paving
Commercially, sandstone paving is often used for pavements in shopping centres and high streets, as it is extremely durable in areas with a high footfall rate. Domestically, sandstone paving is ideal for patio areas, garden footpaths and driveways. The textured surface of natural paving stones provides a slip-resistant surface that works well when used as a surround for hot tubs and swimming pools.
How to maintain natural stone paving
While natural stone paving is low maintenance and easy to keep clean, it does require regular care, to avoid the build-up of moss and algae and to keep it in tiptop condition. Brush surface debris away regularly with a stiff outdoor brush or broom. Remove any weeds as soon as they appear, replacing jointing sand to make it difficult for them to come back, and mop up spills and stains as soon as they occur. A stiff brush can be used with a solution of hot water and washing up liquid for a more thorough clean and to remove any stubborn stains. Always rinse away the soap solution with a hose or a pressure washer on a low setting.
Natural stone paving from Witham Timber
At Witham Timber, we stock a selection of natural stone paving options each with its own unique texture and character. Classicstone Harvest features warm, buff and brown tones with hints of pink, while Classicstone Lakeland offers a cooler palette of brown and grey tones. For anyone wanting to create a modern aesthetic, Classicstone Promenade (also known as Kandla Grey) has a mainly grey hue. If a more traditional look is preferred, Classicstone Autumn offers a classic look for homeowners, with its warm shades of brown and grey.
Along with Classic Stone, Witham Timber also stocks a wide range of products from Marshalls and Talasey, in-store. Please visit or call the branch on 01205 359188 for further information