Frequently Asked Questions
What should Indian sandstone be laid on?
Indian sandstone paving slabs should be laid on a well-prepared sub-base and a layer of mortar. Ideally, your sub-base should be made up of MOT Type 1 mortar composed of crushed aggregates. As this is a dense material, it will do well under pressure and can take the weight of your Indian sandstone slabs. Then, you can lay out your mortar bed and spread it to slope down towards your drainage channel.
Is Indian sandstone slippery when wet?
Indian sandstone paving slabs can be slippery when wet, especially if they are smooth or polished. The risk of slipping can be reduced by selecting a textured finish, such as riven or sandblasted, which provides better traction when wet. However, maintaining your paved area is just as important, as algae and moss growth can make the surface slippery. Regularly cleaning your Indian sandstone slabs can help prevent the build-up of substances that may make your paving perilous.
Can you pressure-wash Indian sandstone?
Indian stone paving is made from natural stones that are more likely to be damaged with high-pressure washing. You should not use a pressure washer at full power, as this can damage the stone’s surface, particularly if it’s a softer sandstone. We recommend using a low-pressure setting and a wide-angled nozzle to disperse the pressure across the stones.
Take care around the edges of your Indian stone paving slabs, as the water pressure could dislodge them. You should also avoid using your pressure washer on joints to avoid damaging the sub-base by washing out the sand or mortar.
Does Indian sandstone need sealing before laying?
No, Indian sandstone paving slabs do need to be sealed before laying. Sealing is typically done after the slabs have been laid and allowed to dry and cure properly. However, sandstone retains very little water so it will be largely unaffected by the elements.
If you want to seal your Indian stone paving for additional protection, we recommend waiting until after the slabs have been laid and allowed to dry. The sealing process can trap moisture in the stone if it is still wet, leading to discolouration and other issues. Additionally, sealing before laying can make it more difficult to achieve a good bond between the slabs and the mortar or sand bed, which can cause cracking or movement in the future.
How often should you seal Indian sandstone?
How often you should seal your Indian sandstone paving slabs depends on the type of sealer you use, the intended use of the paved areas and the average level of foot traffic. Generally, we recommend resealing Indian stone paving once every three years to maintain the protective layer and prevent staining. However, you must follow the manufacturers recommendations for the specific sealer, as some may require frequent reapplication.
Why is my Indian sandstone going brown/yellow?
Indian sandstone paving slabs can change in colour for many reasons, including weathering, algae or moss growth, and staining. Weathering is a natural process caused by sun, rain, and wind exposure. Particularly if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, your Indian sandstone slabs may develop a yellow or brown hue much quicker.
Algae or moss growth occurs mostly in damp or shady areas. This is a contributing factor to discolouration and can be prevented by keeping your paved area clean and free of debris. Stains from oil, grease, or other substances can also cause the discolouration of your Indian sandstone paving slabs. If staining occurs, it is best to treat it immediately using a suitable cleaner and avoid using abrasive chemicals or tools which could damage the stone's surface.
How thick should mortar be under Indian sandstone?
The thickness of the mortar under your Indian paving slabs depends on the size and thickness of the slabs and the intended use of the paved area. We recommend laying a mortar bed that’s 30-40mm thick, although thicker mortar beds may be required for larger or heavier slabs. The mortar bed should be well compacted and levelled, and care should be taken to ensure that the slabs are evenly supported to prevent any future movement or unevenness.
