In recent times, natural stone paving slabs have become the most used surface solutions. These slabs come in versatile additions, from limestone to sandstone pavings, and offer the perfect solution for hard landscaping. In modern architecture, you may find their application in certain areas, such as driveways, pathways, house exteriors, and even primary roads. If you are also planning to employ paving slabs in your next housing project, here is everything you need to know about this commercial flooring.
The History and Present of Natural Stone Paving Slab Tiles
Concrete paving slabs inspire natural stone paving slabs. The paving blocks have been used in construction since Roman times. Their versatility and durability make them perfect for every construction project. As the name suggests, paving blocks include the process of using individual blocks instead of other materials like asphalt or concrete. Block paving can be made of sandstone, limestone, and porcelain. The best part of using paving blocks is that you can create a distinctive and attractive pattern by arranging them with a practical design.
How Are Natural Stone Paving Slabs Made
Paving slab tiles can be made of concrete or natural stone. The process of the two categories slightly differs. Concrete blocks are constructed by mixing sand, cement, water, and other aggregates. Later, this mixture is fitted into moulds, giving the block the desired shape and size. However, natural stone paving slabs don't require the preparation of any mixture or moulding it into the right shape. It is simply formed by cutting the large piece of stone into consistent and calibrated slabs of perfect thickness. Cutting stone is an artistic process that requires diamond-edged saw blades to achieve perfection.
How Many Types of Paving Slabs Are Available
You can find a range of paving slabs in the market. They are available in a variety of colours, sizes, and shapes. You can choose either a standard rectangular block or a pyramid block. The versatility of the paving slabs makes them perfect for most hard landscaping projects. The basic one starts with concrete blocks. However, there is a range of natural stone paving slabs that you can use for your next upcoming project.
Sandstone Paving Slabs
As a versatile and durable option, sandstone paving slabs are widely used for patios, driveways, and pavings, with the presence of minerals such as mica, quartz, and feldspar, sandstone paving features radiant colours and patterns such as white, pink, and grey. The best part of opting for sandstone pavings is that they are durable and resistant to high weather extremes. The right installation makes them last more than two decades. However, there is little concern associated with sandstone pavings. Sandstone paving is porous and thus requires extra maintenance.
Limestone Paving Slabs
Other premium block paving slabs include limestone paving slabs. Limestone is a type of sedimentary stone known for its durability and versatility. It takes years to form limestone by the decomposition of sediments, broken seashells, coral, and the remains of aquatic animals. The paving slabs come in different earth-tone colours, including blue, yellow, and black. Further, limestone features a veining structure. The strength of limestone paving slabs makes them perfect for heavy foot traffic regions. Unlike sandstone, maintaining limestone paving is a breeze. Even the chips and cracks of the stone can be easily replaced over time. However, there's a concern. With time, limestone can develop stains from mould, lichen, oil, and food. Hence, you should clean them regularly.
Porcelain Paving Slabs
Ceramic paving is used to form porcelain paving slabs. It involves a mixture of clay, sand, and minerals that is later baked at high temperatures. Though it isn't made of exact concrete, it exudes similar functionality and benefits. With its non-porous and hard-wearing nature, ceramic porcelain paving requires simple cleaning and maintenance. Moreover, the slabs are resistant to scratches. The durability of the porcelain slabs makes them perfect for every outdoor space, such as pathways, driveways, and other areas.
What is the Difference Between Permeable and Non-Permeable Paving Blocks?
Based on their porosity, natural stone paving slabs are also classified as permeable and non-permeable. Permeable paving is porous. Further, it is specially designed with 5mm space between the joints that allows water to drain through the joints. On the other hand, non-permeable paving slabs don't allow water to seep at the underground level. Thus, porous paving blocks are more sustainable compared to other options as they control water erosion and flood formation.
Advantages and Drawbacks of Natural Stone Paving Slabs
Here is the list of advantages and disadvantages of natural paving slabs:
Pros:
- Durable choice can last up to 25 years or more with the right installation.
- Anti-slippery surface. Thus, it is perfect for bathrooms and rainy weather.
- Available in different colours and patterns, creating excellent visual appeal.
- Can withstand high foot traffic easily.
- It can be placed in unique patterns and layouts, creating pretty designs outdoors.
- Resistant to extreme weather such as frost, rain, and high temperatures.
- Also, it can be quickly repaired in case of damage without affecting the entire flooring.
Cons:
- It requires regular maintenance to overcome colour fading and weathering and maintain pristine shine.
- Installation can be tricky and requires professional assistance.
- A little bit more expensive than traditional paving materials
- To fit the surface entirely, you may need to cut the shape of the slabs, which requires expertise.
A Way Forward
Despite the limited cons, the pros of natural stone paving slabs offer numerous advantages. By adding your creativity, you can definitely add to the versatility and functionality of the natural stone paving slabs. However, we advise you to choose a reliable manufacturer or supplier to ensure quality and consistency. Brisks is one of the best natural stone paving slab suppliers in the UK. Here, you can find premium types of slabs at an affordable price. The best part is that you can find every type under a single roof and even a sample quantity. What are you still waiting for? Let's revamp your outdoors together.