Indian Sandstone Specialists Gloucester
Indian sandstone has become one of the most popular choices for patios across Gloucester, and with good reason. This natural stone offers an attractive, hard-wearing surface that works well in British gardens. At Inventive Drives and Patios LTD, we install Indian sandstone patios regularly and have seen how well they perform in our local climate.
What Is Indian Sandstone?
Indian sandstone is a sedimentary rock quarried primarily in India. It’s available in various colours, including buff, grey, autumn brown, and rainbow multi-tones. The stone is split along its natural grain, creating the characteristic riven surface many homeowners prefer. This texture provides good slip resistance, making it practical for our wet weather in the North West.
Grades and Quality
Not all Indian sandstone is the same. Suppliers like Marshalls, The Stone Mart, and Stone Paving Direct offer different grades. Premium grade tends to have more consistent thickness and fewer natural blemishes, whilst economy grade can vary more in thickness and may require additional cutting and adjustment during installation. We typically recommend mid- to premium-grade materials for patios that will see regular use.
The calibrated versions are machine-cut to a uniform thickness (usually 22mm), making installation more straightforward and helping to create a flatter finished surface. Hand-cut or uncalibrated stone varies between roughly 20 and 35mm thick and requires more skill to lay level.
Installation Considerations
Proper installation is essential with Indian sandstone. The stone needs a solid sub-base, typically at least 100mm of compacted MOT Type 1, followed by a 30-50mm mortar bed. We always lay Indian sandstone on a full mortar bed rather than spot bedding, as this prevents rocking, unslightly ring effects later and reduces the risk of cracking.
Pointing is another important aspect. We generally use a 10-15mm joint width and finish with either a traditional sand-and-cement mortar or a resin-based jointing compound. The resin options tend to resist weed growth better but cost more.
Maintenance and Longevity
Indian sandstone patios need sealing to protect against staining and to enhance the colour. We recommend sealing within a few weeks of installation and then reapplying every 2-3 years depending on wear. The stone itself is durable and should last decades with basic care.
Regular sweeping and occasional washing with a mild detergent keeps the surface looking good. Avoid pressure washers on high settings as they can damage the mortar joints and the stone surface itself.
Cost and Availability
Indian sandstone sits in the mid-range for patio materials. It costs more than concrete slabs but less than premium British stone or porcelain. The wide availability through suppliers across the North West means lead times are usually short, and there’s a good choice in colours and finishes.
If you’re considering an Indian sandstone patio in Gloucester, Inventive Drives and Patios LTD can discuss the options available and provide a detailed quote. Contact us on 01452 905274 to arrange a site visit.
