Indian Sandstone: Explained
As the name suggests, Indian sandstone or Indian stone is quarried and imported from India, a country known for its beautiful, naturally veined stone in an array of rich colours from beige, brown, and greys to greens and even pink. The stone is formed from sedimentary rocks, which means it has a relatively soft composition compared to other stones like granite, making it an ideal choice for driveways, patios, outdoor dining areas, and pathways.Is Indian Sandstone Easy to Maintain?
Indian stone is fairly low maintenance when it comes to outdoor surfaces, apart from an occasional sweep and seal, the needs for Indian sandstone are simple. To keep your Indian stone paving in top condition, we recommend:- Regularly sweeping to prevent any build-up of dirt and debris.
- Apply a sealer to protect it from stains and enhance its colour.
- Any spills that do occur, address them promptly to avoid permanent discolouration.
- Re-seal every 1 to 2 years depending on foot traffic and how exposed the stone is to the elements.
- Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning tools.
Can You Pressure Wash Indian Sandstone?
Pressure washing is a popular choice when cleaning outdoor surfaces, and when it comes to Indian sandstone, it certainly can be done but should be approached with caution. Consider the following before you decide to pressure wash your Indian stone surface:- Adjust the Pressure Settings - Indian sandstone has a relatively soft composition which means it can be damaged by high-pressure washing, therefore you should adjust your pressure washer’s settings to low, ideally below 1500 psi, to avoid chipping or etching the surface.
- Check the Distance and Angle - maintain a safe distance of about 12 to 18 inches from the stone while pressure washing and use a wide-angle nozzle to help disperse the water pressure more evenly.
- Gentle Detergents - for stubborn stains, use a mild detergent specifically designed for natural stone and avoid harsh chemicals as they can damage the stone’s surface and alter its appearance.
- Test Area - test the pressure washer on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the stone. This will help you adjust the settings as needed before cleaning the entire area.
Is Indian Sandstone a Good Option for a Driveway or Patio?
Indian stone slabs are an incredibly versatile option for outdoor spaces and make a great option for driveways and patios as they are able to withstand high pressure and large footfall. Other reasons Indian stone is a great option for driveways and patios include:- The natural variations in colour and texture make Indian sandstone a unique and attractive option for driveways and patios.
- Even though Indian stone has a softer composition, it can withstand significant wear and tear and, if properly installed and maintained, can last for many years
- The natural riven surface of Indian sandstone provides good slip resistance, making it a safe choice for outdoor areas that may get wet.
- Its versatility means that Indian stone can be used for a wide variety of outdoor spaces including pathways, garden edging, and even pool surrounds.
- Being a natural stone, Indian sandstone is an environmentally friendly option compared to synthetic materials.
