How to Buy the Best Sandstone

Your Guide to buying the best Sandstone

Overview

Sandstone is a widely sought-after building material due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Its natural beauty and strength make it a popular choice for many construction projects, from walkways and outdoor kitchens to countertops and fireplaces. Understanding the various qualities and types of sandstone is key to making an informed purchasing decision. This buying guide will provide an overview of the different types of sandstone available and offer helpful tips for choosing the best sandstone for a particular project.

Key features

  1. Texture - Sandstone varies in texture from smooth to rough. Consider the desired texture based on the desired application.
  2. Color - Sandstone may range in color from grey to tan to reddish-brown. Choose the color that best fits your desired application.
  3. Porosity - Sandstone is a porous natural stone that is susceptible to staining if not properly sealed. Consider the desired porosity based on the application.
  4. Size - Sandstone typically comes in a variety of sizes and thicknesses to fit a variety of applications. Consider the desired size and thickness.
  5. Finish - Sandstone may have a polished or honed finish. Consider the desired finish based on the application.
  6. Price - Sandstone may range in price from low to high. Consider the desired budget and price range.

See the most popular Sandstone on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability: Sandstone is a naturally durable material and can withstand harsh climates and wear and tear over time.
  • Appearance: Sandstone is a beautiful and unique material that can be used for a variety of uses in the home or garden, providing a unique look and feel.
  • Versatility: Sandstone can be used for a variety of purposes, such as paving, wall cladding, and fireplace surrounds.
  • Easy to Install: Sandstone is a relatively easy material to install and can be done by most DIYers with the proper tools and equipment.
  • Fire Retardant: Sandstone is fire-resistant which makes it a great material to use in fireplaces and other areas prone to fire.

Cons

  • Price: Sandstone can be expensive depending on where it is sourced from and the type of sandstone that is chosen.
  • Durability: Sandstone is a relatively soft material and can be prone to wear and tear over time.
  • Tendency to Stain: Sandstone can be porous and therefore more likely to absorb liquids and other materials, making it more prone to staining.
  • Availability: Sandstone is not widely available in many regions, so it may be difficult to find.

Best alternatives

  1. Granite - Hard-wearing, a natural stone with a variety of colors and textures
  2. Limestone - A sedimentary stone with a soft and light texture, comes in various shades of cream, grey and beige
  3. Marble - A classic stone that has a range of colors and veining, and is often used in backsplashes and countertops
  4. Slate - A durable stone that is often used outdoors, comes in a variety of shades and textures
  5. Travertine - A porous stone that often has a unique patterned look due to the presence of holes and voids
  6. Quartzite - A strong, non-porous stone that is available in a range of colors and textures

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

Common questions

  1. What types of sandstone are available? - Sandstone is available in a variety of colors and textures, including red, yellow, gray, and brown. The most common types of sandstone are quartzite, limestone, and sandstone.
  2. How strong is sandstone? - Sandstone is typically classified as a hard rock, and is usually quite strong and durable, with a compressive strength of up to 1.6 GPa (N/mm2).
  3. What are the benefits of using sandstone? - Sandstone is a popular choice for building and landscaping projects due to its durability, relatively low cost, and natural beauty. It is also easy to work with and can be carved into a variety of shapes.
  4. What are the disadvantages of using sandstone? - Sandstone is relatively porous and can be easily stained, which means it needs to be sealed regularly to maintain its appearance. Sandstone is also prone to damage from acids and can be easily chipped or cracked.
  5. How do I care for sandstone? - Sandstone should be sealed regularly to protect it from staining and damage from acids. It should also be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Sandstone should also not be subjected to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature.

Trivia

One interesting story about Sandstone is that it was once home to the world's largest carillon which was built by the Sandstone Carillon Bell Company in 1934. The bell tower, which measured over 140 feet in height, was located at the corner of Main and Church Streets in downtown Sandstone. The bells were sounded daily from the tower, and the sound could be heard for miles around. The bells were removed in 1954 when the company fell upon hard financial times. Today, a bronze plaque is all that remains of the tower, and it serves as a reminder of Sandstone's colorful past. Sources: [Sandstone Historical Society](http://www.sandstonehistorical.org/history-of-sandstone.html)

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.