Frequently Asked Questions
Is limestone paving slippery when wet?
Whether limestone slabs become slippery when wet depends on the paving’s finish. If you choose a honed or polished finish, the surface of the limestone paving will be smooth and, therefore, potentially slippery when wet. This is especially true if the surface is not sloped properly for drainage. However, the surface will have a better grip if you choose a rougher, brushed or textured finish.
Keeping your limestone paving clean and debris-free is a great way to enhance its slip resistance. Regular sweeping and cleaning with a gentle detergent can help prevent the buildup that creates slippery surfaces.
Can you lay limestone paving on sand?
Yes, you can lay limestone paving on a mixture of six parts soft sand and one part cement. In fact, this is a common method professionals use to install limestone paving slabs. Laying slabs on sand provides a stable base for drainage and prevents them from shifting over time.
The first step involves excavating the area and removing grass or plants. Next, a layer of compacted sand should be spread over the area, ensuring it is level and slopes away from buildings or structures to prevent water pooling. You should create a layer of sand thick enough to support the size and weight of your limestone slabs. They can then be laid on top once the sand base is in place. For a symmetrical look, ensure they are level and each slab is evenly spaced.
It is important to use a rubber mallet to tap the slabs into place and ensure they are fully seated. After the limestone paving slabs are in place, you should brush jointing sand into the gaps between them, which helps lock the slabs together. Finally, sweep away excess sand to reveal a smooth and level surface for your new limestone patio.
Does limestone patio get hot?
Limestone paving slabs can absorb and retain heat like any natural stone. Light from the sun’s rays can make the slabs hot to the touch, but the amount of heat that a limestone patio absorbs will depend on a few factors. First, the stone's colour, the surface's finish, and the ambient temperature surrounding your patio will have a big impact. Lighter-coloured limestone paving slabs will reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, making them a cooler choice for a patio or outdoor area.
Additionally, a honed or textured finish will provide more grip and reflect more heat, making the surface cooler than a polished finish. If you're concerned about the heat of your limestone patio, you can use shade structures like umbrellas or pergolas to provide relief from direct sunlight. Consider using a lighter-coloured limestone or incorporating plants and other greenery to create a cooler microclimate.
Does limestone fade in sunlight?
Limestone patio slabs will change and develop over time. However, the degree of its change will depend on environmental factors, like your climate and the specific type of limestone. As with any natural material, exposure to sunlight can cause the stone's colour to fade. Limestone exposed to direct sunlight for long periods will likely experience more colour changes than shaded or partially covered limestone.
It’s vital to take proper care of your limestone to minimise colour changes and preserve the beauty of your slabs over time: this includes regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris and sealing the stone to protect it from moisture.
What do you lay limestone paving on?
Limestone is typically laid on three central materials: sand, concrete and gravel. However, the key to a perfect patio is ensuring your base is stable and level: this will ensure that the slabs remain in place. If you lay limestone paving on concrete, pour a level and sloped base for adequate drainage. Laying limestone paving on sand or gravel is another popular option.
To lay limestone patio slabs on sand or gravel, excavate the area and create a level base with a compacted sand or gravel layer. Once the base is in place, you can lay the limestone slabs and use jointing sand to fill the gaps between them. Overall, the key to laying limestone paving slabs is to ensure that you have a stable and level base that provides proper drainage and prevents shifting over time.
