Smooth Sandstone Paving Slabs

The surface of smooth Indian sandstone paving undergoes a rough honing process, achieved through machine-cutting the sawn sandstone from the block. This method, in contrast to natural splitting, guarantees a consistently smooth finish. The smooth sandstone paving is precisely sawn on all six sides, ensuring straight and machine-cut edges that enhance its modern and sleek appearance. In comparison to riven sandstone, honed sandstone paving offers a unique appeal with more prominent patterns and a diverse array of colours across its surface.

Honed smooth sandstone paving offers a certain level of slip resistance, allowing for secure footing even in damp conditions. They are generally slip-resistant and suitable for outdoor use. However, it is important to note that the slip resistance of smooth sandstone is lower compared to riven sandstone, split limestone, and flamed granite. It is advisable to avoid engaging in vigorous activities on smooth sandstone surfaces, particularly when they are wet.

Indian smooth sandstone paving is available in a wide range of colours, from neutral cream or light grey tones found in Fossil Mint and Kandla grey sandstone to earthy Raj Green, and Rippon buff sandstone. For those seeking more vibrant options, Rippon Buff and Raj green smooth sandstone feature eye-catching colours.

Sealing smooth sandstone paving slabs to prevent staining is generally recommended, but this recommendation is not mandatory. Even with sealing, it cannot guarantee 100% prevention of water stains because sandstone has a higher water absorption rate compared to other stones. Therefore, the risk of water stains should be taken into consideration when considering the purchase of smooth sandstone paving.

All smooth sandstone paving slabs have been cut to a nominal consistent thickness. This makes it easier to lay compared to un-calibrated natural stone slabs, as there are no significant variations in thickness between each slab.

How to Obtain Smooth Sandstone Paving

• Initial Cutting: Place the sandstone block on the bed of the saw machine and cut it into roughly uniform-thickness slabs.
• Rough Grinding: Roughly grind the top surface of each slab to achieve a smoother surface. The bottom surface remains the normal sawn surface.
• Slab Selection: Remove the particularly thin slabs and use a calibrated machine to efficiently cut the particularly thick slabs uniform in thickness with a groove bottom.
• Precision Cutting: Use the infrared saw machine to cut the processed nominal uniform thickness slabs into the desired specifications.
• Packaging and Inspection: During packaging, approx. 5-10% of the bottom surfaces of the slabs may still be grooved, approx. 90-95% of the bottom surface is sawn.

⚠️ Paving Expert Advice: Sandstone is naturally porous, and water staining effects are more pronounced when in a honed smooth finished state. To mitigate this, we advise sealing the undersides of all sawn sandstone paving with SBR adhesive prior to installation, ensuring uniform application and complete drying to establish a chemical barrier between the cement mixture and the sandstone. Furthermore, apply Lithofin Stain Stop W sealer to the top and sides to prevent any staining.

Due to the relatively low density of sandstone, the sawn edges of sawn and honed smooth sandstone tend to be sharp, unlike hand-chiseled edges. Chipping can occur frequently, which no stone company can completely avoid. If customers are particularly concerned about chipping, we recommend avoiding the purchase of smooth sandstone with sawn edges. Alternatively, with the owner's consent, they can visit a local store and pay an additional fee to handpick the stones. In such cases, the cost is typically around twice the regular price.