Home
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Uses for Sandstone Paving?

T. L. Childree
T. L. Childree

Sandstone paving has many different uses for home and garden landscaping. These smooth-textured pavers are typically found in patios, driveways, and sidewalks, but also have many other applications. They are also used frequently for garden walls, seats, and borders. Sandstone paving can be placed around swimming pools or utilized to make steps, retaining walls, or stepping stones. A combination of shapes, sizes and colors can be laid together to form an attractive paving design or pattern.

Sandstone paving is best known for its uniform appearance, smooth texture, and earthy colors. The most common use of this material is for patios because of its durability and ease of installation. The natural colors of this paving blend well with patio furniture and plants. Sandstone also makes a good driveway surface and can withstand frequent vehicle traffic when installed in a sturdy base. In addition, sandstone also makes an attractive surface for sidewalks and garden pathways.

A piece of sandstone.
A piece of sandstone.

Another popular use for sandstone paving is around garden areas. These pavers can be stacked on top of each other to form short walls around a garden or fountain. Applying mortar between the pavers will help keep the structure from toppling over. A garden meditation seat can also be constructed in a similar manner using these paving stones. Sandstone pavers make good borders or edging around patios, driveways, and gardens as well.

Installing sandstone paving around swimming pools can create a colorful and attractive surface. The earth-toned shades of sandstone usually contrast well with the pool color. A sealer is usually required for this paving application to protect the sandstone from sunlight or saltwater. Sandstone pool coping can also be placed along the edge of the pool for a more uniform appearance. Special non-slip coatings can be applied to the surface for safety.

Sandstone paving can also be installed as steps leading to a door, patio, deck, or porch. Installing the stones in a mortar base will help keep them sturdy and level. Sandstone pavers may be turned on their sides to form a small retaining wall along the edges of the steps. This natural stone paving can be spaced apart for a stepping stone path leading to a doorway, garden, or storage shed.

Another option for sandstone paving is to make decorative patterns with a combination of colors. This pattern can be placed in a patio or driveway to give the surface a unique look. The use of irregularly shaped paving pieces and chips can also add an interesting dimension to the surface. Broken pieces of paving or cutting scraps are sometimes utilized for this purpose. Sandstone paving may also be laid along with other types of pavers as a colorful centerpiece.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A piece of sandstone.
      By: Tyler Boyes
      A piece of sandstone.