YOUR SANDSTONE QUESTIONS ANSWERED

KLS Sandstone is a specialist in custom sandstone cutting, producing stunning pieces that will stand the test of time. The range includes a wide variety of Australian and imported sandstone, plus quartzite, travertine, snowy river bluestone and bush rock. It also stocks a large selection of retaining wall logs, natural stone cladding, pavers, tiles, blocks and much more.

KLS Sandstone offers the best expert advice from it's master stonemasons. Customers often ask the team for their input and opinions on designs and plans. Here are some factors to consider when planning your next big project.

Sandstone – or any natural stone – is long-lasting and hard-wearing, so plan carefully as it will last a lifetime.

CONSIDER STONE SIZE AND ACCESS TO YOUR PROPERTY

Choosing large, solid sandstone logs to use in a retaining wall is a fantastic, cost-efficient option. With no need for structural footings and minimal ground preparation, you will be able to save money.

You will most likely need to hire large machinery to move these large sandstone logs around. Always ask the weight of the product you choose so that you can be aware of the costs of moving, and assess the space surrounding the location - is there enough space for the machinery and the logs to be transported?

Smaller sandstone blocks or a brick/besser block wall faced in sandstone cladding can be an alternative for smaller landscapes. This will be more labour intensive but there is less need for machinery, which can offset costs.

IS YOUR STONE EXPOSED TO THE ELEMENTS?

Moisture from rain and/or constant shade over time can leave mould and weathering marks on your stone. While some clients prefer this aged look, many will not. This is when a good quality sealant should be used. A sealer will reduce these marks and help make them easier to remove if necessary.

There are different types of sealant available: some will change the appearance of the stone to make it look slightly darker or wet, some penetrate the stone to completely protect it from saltwater/chlorine attack and others do not alter the appearance of the stone at all.

There are many sealers on the market so do your research. Some sealers come with guarantees and will not need reapplying for up to 10 years or more, and others will need annual reapplication.

Depending on where your stone is used, sealing may be required before installation.

SOLID SANDSTONE WALL VERSUS SANDSTONE CLADDING

When constructing a wall for any project, you have two cladding options: solid sandstone block walls or a brick/besser block wall, which is then faced or covered with a natural stone cladding.

To compare, three things need to be taken into account:

1. The cost of the sandstone blocks versus the cost of the bricks/blocks plus cladding. Here you will find the cladding works out cheaper.

2. Consider the time and labour costs of laying blocks versus laying bricks/blocks and then fixing the cladding. You may be able to fix the cladding yourself, otherwise, the laying of solid blocks is the cheaper option.

3. Aesthetics – how the sandstone will match the space and the requirements of the project. Solid sandstone looks amazing and gives you freedom in size and finishes, but if custom size or finish is not critical you may find a well-finished sandstone or other stone cladding fixed to a brick wall works for you. Most cladding also has corners (or quoins) available to complete the look around edges and corners. Cladding and Quoins generally weigh less, and are more manageable.

CAN A DRIVEWAY BE PAVED WITH SANDSTONE?

It is imperative that sandstone pavers are supported or they will move and possibly crack with exposure to vehicle traffic. As a minimum, 75mm thick sandstone would be recommended on road base and this would only be for light traffic – otherwise, a concrete slab beneath the surface is the preference.

Sandstone is timeless and KLS Sandstone can provide you with a finish that complements the style you wish to achieve. Sawn finishes are used for contemporary and modern design, and rock-faced or sparrowpeck finishes are used for more traditional types of work. This, of course, is not a set rule and the beauty of sandstone is that each piece is an original and can be custom-made to suit your desires.

For more information and to specify industry-leading sandstone from KLS Sandstone, get in touch via the links below.