Sandstone in outdoor design - review

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of fragments of sand, set in a fine-grained matrix of silt or clay. Sandstone takes on the colours of the sand and the matrix from which it was formed. Red sandstone takes its colour from anhydrous iron oxide (Fe2O3) indicating that it was formed in desert conditions.

In England, the most famous and popular sandstone for paving use comes from Yorkshire and is known as York Stone. This sandstone takes on the colour of dark honey, softens beautifully and is immensely durable.

Traditional sandstone was riven (split) with a hammer and chisel. Modern sandstone tends to be sawn and has less character.

See also Bluestone, Limestone, Granite, Cobbles,