Choosing between two natural stone paving types

Indian Sandstone vs Limestone Paving

Both are imported natural stone and both make beautiful terraces, but they have different surfaces, different colour behaviour and different sensitivities.

Knowing which suits your garden saves regret two years in.

Patio and Landscaping work by Gardenscape in Essex

Look and texture

Sandstone typically has a riven, textured face with strong colour variation — warm buffs, greys and multicolour blends that suit traditional and cottage settings.

Limestone is finer grained and more uniform, often in blue-grey or black tones, giving a calmer, more contemporary surface with a smoother feel underfoot.

Practical behaviour

Sandstone's texture gives naturally good grip. Its variation also disguises marks well.

Limestone is calcareous, so acidic cleaners and some de-icing products etch it. It shows water marks more and benefits significantly from sealing.

Laying and cost

Riven sandstone usually comes in variable thicknesses, so laying takes longer as each slab is bedded to level. Calibrated ranges are faster.

Limestone is typically more consistent in thickness. Prices for both vary widely by quality and thickness, so compare specification rather than headline rates.

Frequently asked questions

Which is more slip resistant?

Riven sandstone generally offers more texture; smooth limestone needs to be kept clear of algae.

Does limestone fade?

Some darker limestones lighten with weathering; sealing slows the change.

Should I seal natural stone?

We recommend it for both, and particularly for limestone.

Want to see samples?

We can source and show samples from established UK suppliers.

Arrange a consultation Call 07535 661664