Paving Slabs
For any paving project you are undertaking you need to have the outcome in mind before you even start working on dimensions or how the project is to be completed. Homeowners’ tastes vary while some appreciate a lot of green and are happy to maintain the area regularly, others are more focused on aesthetics and little or no maintenance. There are many driveway paving ideas and patio ideas today as there are a wide range of materials to use. Here we focus on the type of paving slabs, the unique qualities and the pros and cons in relation to the British weather. Natural Stone Paving Slabs Despite the wide range of stones available, natural stone stands out and enhances the beauty of your home. Natural Stone has been around for centuries and has been used in lots of exceptional construction projects around the world. It is durable and lasts for a very long time. Some of its key qualities are:
They are a great choice for gardens as they bring originality to an outdoor space. They are right up there with the ideal solutions for gardens. As they are formed under the layers of the earth, no two stones are the same which makes them unique. Indian Sandstone Paving Slabs Indian stone is famous for its unique finishes and colourings. It is well regarded by paving enthusiasts. Its general availability makes it a popular choice. Sandstones are made up of tiny grains held together by cement material containing silicon. Silicon is a resilient material which is why sandstone is hard. Some of the advantages of Indian Sandstone include
The main disadvantage is that they do not age well especially if they are not cared for. Natural stone looks better with age in comparison. They are still fairly low maintenance and cope well with the British weather. Granite Paving Slabs Granite paving slabs are ideal for gardens as they add a touch of class. Granite has a hard-wearing exterior and a dense interior making it a popular choice for paving. They look great for patios and walkways. The paving slabs come in a wide range of colours and finishes from white to black. Granite Paving Slabs are ideal as they do not absorb water and do not expand or contract with changes in weather. Some advantages of Granite Paving Slabs include:
The main drawback is that they are tough and not easy to install. As they are hard it is difficult to cut them. You will need specialised equipment to install granite. Limestone Paving Slabs Limestone Paving Slabs come in a range of colours from darker shades of limestone slabs to lighter shade. They are dense and durable and a great choice for patios. They are like the Indian Sandstone Paving Slabs and are made of silicon and lime. Although similar to Indian Sandstone Paving, the main difference is that Sandstone is made up of a variety of colours blended while limestone is more consistent with a few colours. The advantages of Limestone Paving Slabs are:
The main disadvantage is that there are limited ranges available and the colour fades much quicker than sandstone. Concrete Paving Slabs They are known for their versatility and are available in a wide range of finishes. The are suitable for traditional or modern outdoor spaces which means they cater for different tastes. Usually made from a mixture of minerals, resin, and metals, it can be used to mirror other stone paving types. Concrete Paving slabs can be used for driveways, footpaths, pavements, and walkways. They are also great for areas that have a lot of foot traffic. Some advantages include:
Porcelain Paving Slabs Porcelain Paving slabs are durable and provide that consistent finish to an outdoor space. They do not need a lot of maintenance, are water-resistant and scratch proof. They offer the sleek and sophisticated modern look which is very appealing. Porcelain is made from a mixture of clay and sand. They work well with areas which have high footfall like pathways and patios. Some of the advantages include:
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