What are natural stone slabs?
Natural stone tiles are large flat stones which are carefully mined from quarries and then sliced to specific sizes for use in architectural and design projects. You can buy natural stone slabs to highlight the natural grain and appearance of each type of stone which makes them ideal for home and business applications.
Types of Natural Stone Slabs
There are several types of natural stone slabs, each offering distinct aesthetics and properties:
- Granite: It is well known for its strength and availability of colors and designs, granite is mostly used in the construction of countertops, floorings and exterior facades.
- Marble: Known for its beautiful patterns and rich look, marble is used in washrooms, floors, and as ornamental features.
- Quartzite: A popular material due to its density and heat resistance, quartzite is ideal for zones receiving a great deal of footfall and countertops.
- Slate: Slate is an excellent material for flooring, roofing and walling since it has a dull and earthy look with multiple layers of textures.
- Travertine: This type of stone is characterized by a rough and uneven face and it is used in flooring, counter tops and in areas outside the house.
What is the best natural stone for paving?
These factors are important when selecting the most suitable natural stone for paving, and they include; Here are the top choices:
- Granite
Best for: High-traffic areas, driveways
Granite is extremely hard, durable, and perfect for such places as driveways or patios. It does not easily wear out and comes in many colors. It does not require much maintenance because it is hard wearing and stain resistant from the scratch. - Sandstone
Best for: Patios, garden paths
Sandstone is characterized by warm and earthy colors that make it blend well with landscapes because of the natural color. It has good slip resistance, and it is suitable for use in outdoor areas; however, it needs to be sealed to prevent its deterioration by weather conditions. - Limestone
Best for: Courtyards, terraces
Limestone has a non-grainy surface and fairly muted tones giving it a traditional feel. It is hard wearing but not as hard as granite so it is more suited to lower traffic areas. Sealing assist in helping it retain the beauty of the material it was made of. - Slate
Best for: Patios, walkways
Slate provides numerous beautiful, dark, and complex shades and surfaces. It is also non-slip and very hard wearing, making it perfect for use in paths and patios. Nonetheless, slate is easy to maintain if it is correctly sealed and can last for many years. - Travertine
Best for: Pool decks, patios
Travertine does not become hot with foot traffic and is good for warm climates such as areas surrounding swimming pools. It has a good traction because of its natural surface and warm colors give nobility to outdoor areas. Its surface is porous and it requires frequent sealing to prevent water from penetrating through it. - Bluestone
Best for: Walkways, patios
Bluestone is very hard wearing and has a very good slip resistance, ideal for paths and patios. It is easy to maintain and is also resistant to poor weather conditions.
How to buy natural stone slabs online?
Buying natural stone slabs online has become very common in the past few years. There are many suppliers out there who provide different types of products, enabling you to sit comfortably at home while choosing between different types, colors and patterns.
When purchasing online, the buyer should ensure that he or she has done his or her homework and identify a reliable supplier in the market. Search for businesses that have well described products, good pictures, and well stated return policies. Also, there are parameters like price of delivery which should be considered to make a purchase a seamless process.
What are some considerations while shopping online for natural stone slabs?
Here are some key factors to consider when shopping online for natural stone slabs:
- Quality and Consistency: Make sure the supplier has taken good quality pictures of the slabs and has given detailed descriptions. Search for data about the place where the stone was taken from, the grade of the stone and if it has any changes in color or design.
- Slab Size and Thickness: Find out the length, width, and thickness of your project. The actual cutting or sizing of the fabric may be performed by the online retailer, or may require that the consumer select custom cutting or sizing services.
- Edge Finishing: You can choose between eased edges, beveled edges, bullnose edges to suit the design of your space.
- Shipping and Delivery: Ask about shipping charges, delivery period and any other charges that may be involved. Examples include the location of your business and the distance that is likely to be traveled to get the supplier.
- Return Policy: Learn the supplier’s return policy in case he or she does not satisfy your needs for the slabs. You should look for companies that have diverse ways through which customers can return products.
- Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Check the customer reviews and feedback to understand the information about the supplier’s trustworthiness, product quality, and the level of customer care.
- Warranties and Guarantees: Enquire whether the supplier has any warranties or guarantees on the natural stone slabs. This can add some extra level of confidence.
Natural stone Paving slabs suppliers near me in Australia
To find natural stone paving slabs suppliers near you in Australia, here’s what you can do:
Online search for natural stones
Start with a quick online search using phrases like:
“Natural stone paving slabs suppliers near me”
“Natural stone pavers Australia”
Search engines or platforms like Google Maps will show nearby suppliers based on your location.
Visit Local Stone Yards and Quarries
Australia has many local stone yards, quarries, and distributors. Visiting them in person can give you a chance to see the quality of the stone and talk to experts. You can search for well-known companies like Cairns Marble Australia, Eco Outdoor, and Marble & Granite Supply of Australia.
Check National Suppliers
Many large stone companies deliver nationwide. One of the most prominent Australian suppliers is EcoNature.
Visit Home Improvement Stores
Major home improvement retailers like Bunnings Warehouse often stock natural stone paving slabs. They may have an online directory to check availability near your location.
Trade Shows and Exhibitions
Attend industry events like DesignBuild Expo or Melbourne Home Show, where many natural stones suppliers exhibit their products. It’s a great way to meet multiple suppliers and see a range of products.
Ask for Recommendations
Builders, architects, and landscapers often have connections to reliable natural stones suppliers. They can recommend trustworthy companies or wholesalers in your area.
Different types of natural stones
Below we will discuss the different types of natural stones which can be used in construction projects and general landscaping.
Natural Sandstone slabs
Natural sandstone slabs are a popular choice for flooring, countertops, and other architectural applications. They are formed by the consolidation of sand grains over millions of years, resulting in a durable and versatile stone. Key characteristics of sandstone slabs include:
- Porosity: Sandstone is a porous stone, which means it can absorb liquids. This can affect its staining susceptibility, so sealing is often recommended.
- Color: Sandstone comes in a wide range of colors, from warm beige and brown to cooler shades of gray and red. The color is influenced by the minerals present in the sand.
- Texture: Sandstone can have a smooth or slightly rough texture, depending on the grain size and the manufacturing process.
- Durability: Sandstone is generally a durable stone, but its resistance to scratching and abrasion can vary depending on the type and quality.
Natural Granite Paving
Natural granite paving consists of outdoor slabs made from granite, a strong and durable stone ideal for driveways, patios, and walkways. It’s known for:
- Durability: Can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather.
- Slip Resistance: Its rough texture makes it safe for wet areas like pools.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Available in a variety of colors and finishes, each slab has unique patterns.
- Low Maintenance: Resistant to scratches and stains, and easy to clean.
- Applications: Driveways, patios, pathways, and pool surrounds.
Granite is long-lasting and adds a premium, natural look to any outdoor space.
Natural Limestone Paving
Natural limestone paving consists of outdoor slabs made from limestone, a durable and attractive stone. It’s commonly used for patios, pathways, and garden areas. Limestone has:
- Durability: Strong and weather-resistant, ideal for outdoor use.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Soft, natural colors like cream, grey, and blue with a smooth texture.
- Slip Resistance: Provides a good grip, especially in wet conditions.
- Easy Maintenance: Requires sealing but is generally low-maintenance.
Limestone paving offers a timeless, elegant look with a natural finish, perfect for both traditional and modern outdoor designs.
natural quartz stone slab
Natural quartz stone slabs are used in landscaping for their strength, durability, and beautiful appearance. Here’s how they are commonly utilized:
- Pathways and Walkways: Quartz slabs create sleek, durable paths that can handle high foot traffic while offering a natural look with unique patterns and colors.
- Patios and Outdoor Seating Areas: Quartz is often used for paving outdoor spaces, providing a smooth, elegant surface that is resistant to weathering and stains.
- Retaining Walls: Large quartz slabs can be used for building strong, decorative retaining walls, adding both function and beauty to the landscape.
- Water Features: Quartz slabs are incorporated into fountains or around ponds, thanks to their water resistance and reflective beauty.
- Steps and Staircases: Quartz is ideal for outdoor steps due to its durability and slip resistance, offering both safety and aesthetics.
- Decorative Accents: Quartz slabs can be used as focal points or feature walls, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape with their unique textures and colors.
In landscaping, quartz stone slabs are favored for their long-lasting, low-maintenance qualities and their ability to add a sophisticated touch to outdoor spaces.
Uses of natural stones
Natural stones have a wide range of applications. They are commonly used in construction for flooring, countertops, wall cladding, and paving stones. Additionally, natural stones are popular for decorative elements such as sculptures, vases, and jewelry. Furthermore, they find industrial applications in abrasives, pigments, and other materials.
patio natural stone pavers
Patio pavers are made from natural stones because they are hard wearing, aesthetically appealing and can easily be integrated into the external environment. Here’s how they are used:
- Paving Slabs: Granite, limestone, slate, sandstone or other types of natural stones are used to cut slabs and then placed as the base for patios to offer a strong surface as well as a good look.
- Edge Borders: Natural stone pavers can also be used to make neat borders around the patios edges which provide a clear demarcation of the area as well as contain the layout.
- Patterns and Designs: These are also placed in various shapes, sizes, and color combinations and installed in herringbone, basket weave, or random designs for the patios.
- Stepping Stones: The use of large individual stone pavers can be used in a laid back, natural manner to make a path going to or around the patio area using the stones as individual steps.
- Outdoor Features: Natural stones are used for creating such items as seating walls, fire pits, or the built-in and perimeter garden beds.
Natural stone pavers add beauty to patios and are durable to improve the appearance of the outdoor living areas.
natural stone pool pavers
Natural stone pool pavers are an excellent choice for home landscaping and remodeling, particularly around swimming pools. Here are the key uses and benefits:
Pool Decking
Natural stone pavers provide a durable and slip-resistant surface around pools, ensuring safety while adding a touch of elegance. Options like travertine, limestone, and slate are popular due to their ability to stay cool underfoot.
Aesthetic Appeal
Natural stones come in various colors, textures, and patterns, allowing homeowners to create a visually stunning outdoor space. They can complement the overall design of the home and garden.
Slip Resistance
The textured surfaces of natural stone pavers offer excellent slip resistance, reducing the risk of accidents around wet areas, making them ideal for poolside applications.
Durability
Natural stones are incredibly resilient and can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic, ensuring that the pool area remains beautiful and functional for years.
Integration with Landscaping
Natural stone pool pavers can seamlessly blend with surrounding landscaping features, such as garden beds, pathways, or outdoor kitchens, creating a cohesive outdoor environment.
Outdoor Features
They can be used for creating outdoor features such as steps, seating areas, or retaining walls, enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of the pool area.
Low Maintenance
Natural stones require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and sealing help preserve its beauty and longevity, making it a practical choice for busy homeowners. Using natural stone pool pavers in landscaping and remodeling adds both functionality and beauty to outdoor spaces, transforming backyards into luxurious retreats.
garden natural stone paving
Garden natural stone paving can add significant beauty and value to a property in several ways:
- Natural Beauty: Natural stone has a rough surface and rich colors and patterns that make it look very classic and smooth and will fit perfectly well in any outdoor area.
- Versatility: Natural stone paving can be bought in many different designs, from traditional flagging to more contemporary geometric patterns, meaning you can design a garden that is perfect for you.
- Durability: Natural stone is a natural material that is not affected by weather conditions hence your garden paving will last for several years.
- Curb Appeal: Natural stone paving is an attractive feature that, if properly maintained, adds value to your property in the eyes of any prospective buyer.
- Outdoor Living Space: The use of natural stone paving can result in appealing and usable exterior living areas including patios, pathways, and carriageways enhancing the value of your home.
- Low Maintenance: Compared to other types of material, natural stones are quite easy to maintain, and rarely needs to be cleaned. This can be a good selling factor to the potential buyers.
- Sustainability: Most of the natural stones are environmentally friendly since they can be recycled and reused to meet the consumer needs.
- Heat Absorption: Natural stones can also be warmed and then store heat, therefore it can contribute to garden temperature control and less energy use.
Can I trust stores where they offer cheap paving slabs?
While it can be tempting to consider stores that offer cheap paving slabs, it’s essential to approach these deals with caution. Here are some factors to consider when determining whether you can trust such stores:
- Lower Quality
Cheap paving slabs may be made from inferior materials or lower-grade natural stones, leading to issues like cracking, chipping, or fading over time. - Durability Concerns
Assess whether the slabs meet industry standards for durability and weather resistance. - Research
Look for customer reviews and ratings for the store. Established suppliers with positive feedback are more likely to provide quality products. - Word of Mouth
Ask friends, family, or professionals in the landscaping industry for recommendations on reliable suppliers. - Return Policy
Trustworthy suppliers typically offer clear return policies. If you can’t return unsatisfactory products, it may indicate lower quality or customer service issues. - Warranties
Check if the store offers warranties on their products, which can provide reassurance about the quality. - Material Sourcing
Transparency: Reliable stores are usually transparent about where their materials come from. If they can’t provide information about the sourcing, it may be a red flag. - Consultation and Expertise
Expert Advice: Trustworthy suppliers often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right materials for your project. They should be able to provide insights into installation and maintenance as well. - Price vs. Value
Balance: Sometimes, lower prices can reflect promotional sales, but be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Compare prices with reputable suppliers to gauge what constitutes a fair market price. - Local Regulations
Compliance: Ensure that the products meet local building codes and regulations, as some cheaper options may not comply.
concrete pavers vs natural stone!
When comparing concrete pavers and natural stone pavers for construction and landscaping, several factors come into play, including durability, aesthetics, cost, maintenance, and environmental impact. Generally, concrete pavers are strong and durable, resistant to cracking and fading, but they can be more susceptible to staining if not sealed properly. In contrast, natural stone pavers are extremely durable, especially options like granite and bluestone, and can withstand heavy loads; however, softer stones like limestone may require more care. Aesthetically, concrete pavers offer various colors, shapes, and textures, allowing for creative designs, but they often lack the unique patterns and natural look of stone. Natural stone pavers, on the other hand, provide rich colors, textures, and patterns that add character and elegance to outdoor spaces.
Regarding cost, concrete pavers are generally less expensive than natural stones, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious projects. However, natural stone pavers tend to be more costly due to the material and extraction process, although their long lifespan can justify the initial investment. Maintenance requirements also differ; concrete pavers need periodic sealing to prevent staining and may allow weeds to grow between them if joints aren’t filled properly, while natural stone pavers require low maintenance overall, although certain types may need sealing for moisture protection.
Installation varies as well; concrete pavers are generally easier to install due to their uniform size and shape, making them suitable for DIY projects, while natural stone pavers can be more complex to install because of their irregular shapes and sizes, often requiring professional help for the best results. In terms of environmental impact, concrete pavers are made from cement, sand, and gravel, which can have a higher carbon footprint, whereas natural stone pavers are a natural product with a lower environmental impact, though extraction can affect local ecosystems if not managed sustainably. Additionally, concrete pavers can absorb and retain heat, making surfaces warmer in direct sunlight, while some natural stones, like travertine, remain cooler underfoot, making them more comfortable in hot weather, particularly around pools. Ultimately, both types of pavers have their advantages and disadvantages, with the best choice depending on specific project requirements, budget, and the desired look for your landscape.