Things To Consider When Choosing Paving

When choosing paving stones for your garden, it is essential to think not only of style but also how you will use your garden space because not all paving materials are equal. There are many things to consider when purchasing paving for your outdoor space.

Drainage

Most issues that arise with natural stone paving are caused by drainage, or lack thereof, so it's essential to examine the landscape of your garden and ensure that water can drain away effectively. This will help prevent problems such as efflorescence staining, frost heave, and cracking. These issues can be minimized by using an effective Permeable Bedding Mortar. If your garden tends to be boggy or is prone to flooding, it's advisable to choose more resilient materials like granites or slates and to avoid using sandstones.

Maintenance

Let us start by saying there is NO SUCH THING as maintenance-free paving.

All paving materials will gather dirt no matter what, but some will require cleaning, some more frequently than others. Consider how much work you are willing to put in to keep your patio looking its best. If you like the idea of letting your patio weather over time, then it's not so much of a problem However, light coloured paving such as Moleanos Limestone and Buff Sandstone will require regular cleaning to keep them bright and looking good as new, sealing is also advisable.

Think about how you intend to use your patio. If your garden is likely to get stained from activities like barbecues and outdoor dining, or if you anticipate muddy paws or sticky fingers, we recommend you opt for paving that will hide marks such as Porphyry, Slate or Blue Grey Granite, or you go for a less porous material such as Porcelain which can easily be wiped clean.

Style

For instance, riven Yorkstone will create a traditional, rustic style, while smooth sawn paving offers a more contemporary feel. If your garden is in a shaded area, using lighter-colored stones can help reflect light and brighten the space. Additionally, light paving slabs can make a smaller area seem larger, especially when using large-format slabs such as 600x900mm.

Moleanos Limestone Paving

One remarkable feature of natural stone is that it changes colour when wet. The colours and markings of some paving stones can become much more vibrant when they are damp. It's important to consider this when choosing your paving. Whenever possible, examine the paving in both dry and wet conditions.

Buff Pink Sandstone Paving

Nowadays, there are so many choices when it comes to paving materials! Some stone slabs have a consistent color and pattern, while others show more natural variation. If you want your patio to have a unique and varied look, sandstone is a fantastic choice. For example, Buff Pink Sandstone features beautiful bands of different colors in random patterns. On the other hand, materials like granite and slate tend to look more uniform and consistent.

Indian Green Sandstone Paving

Texture

All of our natural stone materials pass slip resistance testing, making them safe for use. However, for sloped areas or for individuals who have concerns about slipping on wet surfaces, especially those with reduced mobility, it may be wise to consider a more textured natural stone. Stones with riven surfaces are excellent options. It’s important to think about how you plan to use your garden. If you enjoy walking barefoot in the summer or sitting on the ground with cushions, you might want to avoid the rough granites and opt for sandblasted sandstone paving, which offers a smooth surface.

Most granites have a flat but rough grainy surface which is ideal for slip resistance but not so great for clumsy children's knees!

If you enjoy walking barefoot in the summer or sitting on the ground with cushions, you might want to avoid the rough granites and opt for sandblasted sandstone paving, which offers a smooth surface.

Again, it's about considering the garden's use.

Budget

Whether you're looking to invest in beautiful, durable natural stone paving or you simply want an attractive option that won't break the bank, you should be able to find paving that meets all your needs.

If you're looking for budget-friendly paving options, porcelain paving is an excellent choice with a wide variety available. If you would prefer a natural stone paving, consider Indian riven sandstones, limestones, Silver Grey granite, or black basalt.

Sustainability

When selecting materials, consider their sustainability. Locally sourced options typically have a lower environmental impact, although they often come with a higher price tag compared to imported stone. If your design is more traditional, you might want to use reclaimed stone, which is the ultimate sustainable choice.

Reclaimed Yorkstone Paving

It's a lot to think about and with more choice than ever when it comes to selecting the correct materials and products for your outdoor space, choosing the right one will make a significant impact on the finish and longevity of your project. The thing to remember is a beautiful, durable natural stone paving will stand the test of time and is a real investment.

If you are ready to start the search for garden paving get in touch or visit your local CED Stone Landscape Depot. Our people really are experts in their field, with a wealth of expertise gained from over forty years in the industry, we can easily offer friendly and helpful advice to make sure you select the perfect product for your design.