Stone Depot with its huge range of products, caters to all spaces and different kinds of projects. One distinctive product is Bluestone, which with its attractive appearance and durability has been quite popular. To know why you should consider Bluestone for your project, here are the pros and cons for a better understanding.
The pros
Versatile
Bluestone pavers are suitable for a variety of applications such as swimming pool decks, walkways, driveways, garden paths, or patios. It is one of the most versatile stones for exterior use in commercial and domestic building projects.
Durable
Resistant to cracking or breaking, Bluestone is quite sturdy. This is a kind of volcanic rock that has passed through a lot of processes and changes. Hence it is robust, dense, and weather resistant. It bears heavy loads of vehicles like in driveways and withstands freeze-thaw cycles. The colors of the stone last for a long time. Doesn't this 'built to last long' quality entice you enough?
Functionality
Bluestone's honed finish surface offers a great slip-resistance which also feels smooth under feet. This is apt for areas with extreme weather conditions or high traffic. Additionally, the stone is water-resistant, and sealing further increases this capacity. Therefore, Bluestone pavers are the most used around pools. An all-rounder, you see.
Easy to maintain
One quality of Bluestone pavers that gives it an advantage is that it does not stain easily. A solution of water and detergent or vinegar can be used to remove stains if any. The water-resistant surface makes it washable without any hassles. Also, if broken, they can be replaced without tampering with the whole surface. Such a fuss-free stone it is!
Aesthetics
Bluestone has unique textures and a beautiful appearance. The blue shade looks great in harmony with the elements of nature like sky, daylight, and water. Patio, pathways, or pools paved with Bluestone hence look spacious and lively. Surrounding elements (furniture or fixtures) in green, brown, or yellow complement the blue tone brilliantly, enhancing the space effortlessly. We call it a simple beauty.
The cons
Since every coin has two sides, Bluestone too has few downsides to it. Here's a quick summary of the negatives.
1. Bluestone pavers are slightly expensive due to their rare availability in specific places. The quarry locations add to the supply cost making it a bit pricey. Also, they are costly compared to brick pavers or concrete slabs. However, their colors and strength have no match.
2. It turns hot when exposed to direct sunlight for a long time. This happens to most of the natural stones. The remedy for this is to install them in a shaded place or place a shade/cover around them to protect them from direct harsh sunlight.
3. Bluestone is porous and needs sealing- Like every natural stone, Bluestone too needs to be sealed. Though the stone is dense, it has tiny pinholes invisible to the naked eye. Pre-sealing it before grouting will make the process easy. Do ensure grouting the entire paver and not just the joints. Pre-sealer would prevent moisture and salt from seeping into the stone.
In conclusion
These disadvantages should not discourage you from choosing Bluestone pavers for your outdoor applications. The benefits outweigh the minuses seamlessly and make it a perfect choice for residential as well as commercial projects.
*Disclaimer: All information and advice given above in the blog are to the best of our knowledge. Please reconfirm at your end before execution.
