We strongly recommend that natural stone paving is not butt jointed.This is because dimensions given can never be exact and +/- 2mm in the dimensions of a slab is possible. This tolerance prevents slabs from being butt jointed.
Can patio cleaners be used on natural stone paving?
Natural stone has a natural chemical content which can sometimes react with certain types of patio cleaner. Always check with the supplier before using any type of patio cleaner and never use any type of cleaner with an acid content.
Is natural stone supplied in full crates or can crates be split?
Some companies only supply natural stone in full crates. We recognize that sometimes this can be inconvenient and as such we are happy to split crates in order for customers to purchase the exact quantities they require.
Can natural stone paving be used for driveways?
Natural stone can be used for driveways. We would recommend using one of the harder types of natural stone for a driveway. It is also recommended to use a darker coloured stone which is less likely to show up tyre marks and occasional oil droplets.
My tiles/pavers are not exactly the same as the sample I received, Why?
Due to natural stone being a natural product, there will always be some degree of variation between stones which can also vary from batch to batch. You are welcome to visit our warehouse and see the material we currently have in stock.
Some of the tiles/pavers have small chips on the edge, Why?
Transportation can cause small chips on the tiles, this is normal and accepted as the norm in the tile industry, always inspect and arrange your tiles in order to get the best results.
What size should pointing gaps be?
For sawn edges natural stone paving gaps should be 6-8mm.
Which way up should riven natural stone paving be laid?
Riven natural stone paving should always be laid with the wider surface facing upwards. The wider face will always be flatter and will also have a cleaner cut edge.
Does natural stone need to be sealed?
We always recommend that certain types of sawn sandstone are sealed. We would also say that if the proposed paved area is north facing or particularly damp then sealing can be necessary to prevent algae growth and discolouring. Cheaper brands of seal can also drastically change the colour of the stone and leave the surface of the stone looking shiny. Always take professional advice before carrying out any type of sealing.
Do London stone have a showroom where paving can be viewed?
Yes, London Stone have one of the most extensive showrooms in the UK where all of our different natural stone paving products are on display.
Is natural stone better than concrete?
Natural stone and concrete are two entirely different products but there are some advantages to using natural stone over concrete. Natural stone will weather naturally over time where as concrete can lose its original colour over a couple of years. If a concrete paver gets chipped or scratched then unsightly concrete will be left on display, unlike natural stone.
Should extra stone be ordered for wastage?
It is recommended to order 5-10% more stone than you need to allow for cuts, wastage and damages.
The tiles/pavers are darker than I expected, Why?
The cutting process involved in the production of natural stone tiles and paving uses water and often results in the stones being damp, which makes the stone appear darker than normal. If in doubt dry out the stones prior to installation.
