Natural Stone Paving
Installing a new patio or updating an old one that’s seen better days? Either way, natural stone paving is a classic choice that will never go out of style. At Love Stone, we stock 14 different varieties including Indian sandstone and limestone slabs, plus slate and granite options on request. From traditional to contemporary designs, we have a style for every outdoor space.
Depending on your goals, you can order everything from single slabs and patio packs to stylish stone circles, setts and copings. Our in-house team also offer a range of bespoke services, including bullnose edges and radius cuts for steps, pool surrounds and wall capping.
With nationwide delivery and expert advice available, we make it easy to choose the right stone paving slabs for your project. Browse styles, key benefits, care tips and more below.
What types of natural stone paving are available?
A highly popular choice, our versatile Indian sandstone paving combines strength with natural beauty. Colours such as Raj Green, Silver Grey, Rippon Buff and Fossil Mint offer everything from earthy tones to cool silvers and creamy golds. Each slab is unique with subtle colour variations, naturally veining and a rustic riven surface that is full of character.
We also import premium limestone paving direct from India and Egypt. Offering a smoother surface than sandstone, limestone is a great option for those who prefer a more refined look. Dark shades like Black Limestone make a bold statement, while lighter colours such as Sinai Pearl and Sinai Sand brighten up outdoor spaces with a Mediterranean feel.
Looking for something a little different? We can also supply slate paving and granite setts on request. These stones are perfect for edging or adding contrast within a larger patio design.
What are the benefits of natural stone paving?
Natural stone paving is one of the most popular choices for patios and paths thanks to its strength, individuality and timeless appeal. Its main benefits include:
- Durability – strong enough to withstand foot traffic, garden furniture and the elements.
- Long lifespan – when installed correctly, a natural stone patio can last for decades.
- Unique beauty – no two slabs are the same, with tonal variation and even fossilisation
- Variety of surfaces – sandstone has a naturally riven finish, while limestone offers a smoother, flatter surface that also stays cool underfoot in hot weather.
- Slip resistance – sandstone and limestone both provide good levels of grip underfoot.
- Timeless – natural stone matures well over time and can develop an attractive patina.
- Property value – stone paving is considered a premium feature that enhances appeal.
FAQs
What stone finishes are available?
Sandstone paving comes in two main finishes. A naturally split surface creates a textured look that suits traditional gardens. Meanwhile, tumbled sandstone offers a softer effect with smoother edges and a gently weathered feel.
Limestone paving is refined through different processes to achieve a smoother and more finished appearance – ideal for siting patio furniture. Options include classic tumbled and honed slabs or etched and leathered finishes for a more matte finish.
We also stock antique cathedral limestone slabs, which are hand-split and tumbled to give an aged look that ties in well with period homes and established gardens.
What sizes are available?
At Love Stone, our paving comes in a wide choice of sizes and formats for different projects:
- Single slabs – available for small projects or replacing damaged parts of existing patios. Choose from widths of 400mm, 500mm or 600mm, and lengths up to 900mm.
- Mixed-size paving packs – contain a variety of slab sizes to create random patterns.
- Thicknesses – sandstone is calibrated to 22mm and limestone to 20–22mm.
Tip: Measure your space carefully before ordering and allow an extra 10–15% to account for cuts, breakages and any future repairs.
How do you lay natural stone paving?
Laying natural stone paving requires proper preparation, but the good news is that it’s simpler than laying porcelain. Sandstone, in particular, is easier cut and you don’t need special priming products. Here’s what’s involved:
- Excavate the ground to around 150mm.
- Lay a weed membrane.
- Create a compacted sub-base using Type 1 MOT hardcore.
- Set slabs on a full mortar bed — never dot and dab.
- Point joints with a quality jointing compound to secure slabs and prevent weeds.
Experienced DIYers may be able to install their own patio, we’d recommend using a professional landscaper for larger or more complex projects. Love Stone don’t provide installation directly, but we can connect you with a trusted local contractor.
Are there any downsides to natural stone paving?
Like any material, natural stone paving does have a few disadvantages. As sandstone and limestone are porous, you’ll need to seal the surface to protect against stains and cracking caused by moisture ingress. Over time, some stones may also fade slightly as they weather. A good sealant can help minimise this, though many people see it as part of the stone’s charm.
Natural stone can also require a little more maintenance than porcelain, as it can be impacted by efflorescence, algae and black spot. Additionally, it is typically only suitable for outdoor applications, while porcelain paving can be laid flexibly indoors and out. That said, porcelain is more expensive than sandstone in particular, which is great for building affordable patios.
Do I need to seal natural stone paving?
Sealing natural stone paving is strongly suggested, especially for sandstone and limestone. A breathable sealant will protect against stains, reduce the risk of efflorescence and preserve the stone’s colour. In fact, applying a colour-enhancing sealant can lock in and enrich its tones. We stock a range of professional sealants from Pro-Joint to help protect your patio.
How do I clean and maintain natural stone paving?
Looking after natural stone paving is simple. Regular sweeping and an occasional rinse with water is usually enough to keep it fresh, while stubborn marks can be treated with a specialist cleaner. Just avoid harsh chemicals or strong pressure washers that may damage the stone or joints.
Sealing your paving will also make ongoing care easier and protect against common issues such as efflorescence and black spot. If you do spot efflorescence – a white, powdery deposit caused by salts rising to the surface – this often fades naturally with weathering. Or you can remove it more quickly with a specialist cleaner. Likewise, black spot – dark marks caused by lichen and algae – will need treating with black spot remover as it doesn’t wash away easily.
Speak to our team for help with choosing the right cleaning products for your paving.
What delivery options are available?
As established paving suppliers, we can arrange nationwide delivery to customers across the country via trusted haulage partners. Orders are delivered by tail-lift lorry and offloaded to kerbside or a suitable hard-standing area. The cost is calculated based on the weight of your order and the distance it will be travelling – just ask for a quote when placing your order.
Alternatively, you can collect your stone slabs and paving supplies direct from our depot in Ewshot, near Farnham in Surrey. If you give us a call with a time, our team will be on hand to help prepare and load your order. You can reach us by phone on: 01252 705979.