Limestone vs Sandstone: A Comparison guide

Limestone and Sandstone are the two most popular natural stones for paving available across the globe. The refreshing ambiance they create with striking colours makes them a prevalent choice for driveway, patio, or garden. Both the stones can be used to achieve similar looks and are often confused with each other. Here below is a detailed comparison guide of limestone and sandstone as a ready reckoner.

Let's start with what they are, skipping in-depth details of their chemical composition.

Limestone - This stone is composed of calcite which is responsible for its chalky texture. The textures of limestone are mostly plain and consistent.

Sandstone - Sandstone is a sedimentary rock made of sand like pieces of rocks and minerals like feldspar and quartz.

Characteristics that differentiate the stones

• Durability - Limestone and Sandstone are sturdy and last long. The stones score high on weather endurance and physical wearing which is why both are ideal options for paving outdoors. Together both the stones have been equally used in the making of several buildings that still stand tall and strong. Notwithstanding the similarities, Sandstone is easier to work with as it softer than limestone. This also makes the stone prone to scratching or denting, especially in indoor applications. Yet, it has more density than limestone and is widely used across constructions.
• Acid Reaction - Since Limestone is a calcite rock, it reacts actively with strong acids. One must avoid washing limestone pavers with acidic solutions and take precautions against staining. Sandstone does not react to mild acids, hence it's easy to clean and wash with chemicals. Strong acids can however damage sandstone.
• Water Absorption - Though Sandstone is slightly more porous and absorbs more water than limestone, both are water-resistant. With the treatments and sealants applied to the surface, Sandstone too remains unaffected by water. Limestone and Sandstone can be used around pools or wet places. However, during your purchase, we recommend you have a look at the stones when wet. This will help you decide which stone suits your requirement.
• Slip Resistance - Sandstone's sandy, grainy texture makes it naturally slip-resistant. Hence it works very well in wet areas like swimming pools or outdoors that receive high rainfall. The same goes for Limestone. However, for interior spaces, polished Limestone is avoided as it becomes slippery when wet.
• Appearance - Limestone has a flatter and more consistent texture than Sandstone, making it perfect for driveways or covered courtyards. The even finish of Limestone means they are ideal for driveway, patio as well as indoor applications. You can choose Indiana White for a clean and uniform look. Though Limestone pavers stand out with their smoothness, there are fewer colour variations in this stone.

  Sandstone, on the other hand, offers more variety in colours and textures. The colour-grading in Sandstone looks better than Limestone. No two Sandstone will be uniform or have the same colour. For a classic, natural look, you can go for Sunrise Gold Sandstone?in honed finish that can be used for indoor and outdoor applications.

• Affordability - The cost?of Sandstone is not as high as compared to Limestone or other varieties of marble. Locally available Sandstone is way cheaper than cement or concrete. The fact that Sandstone can be easily worked with reduces a fair share of operating costs (labour cost and time). Sandstone hence is the winner when it comes to affordability.

Conclusion
Sandstone and Limestone have similar properties and care needs. If you are looking for interior flooring or something that can be used around the property, Limestone would be the right choice. For variation in colour and texture, Sandstone is the best fit. The stone that you would pick for your project will largely hinge on your budget and usage. Whatever you choose, would be delivered as quickly as possible by Stone Depot. We are a wholesale supplier of premium natural stones to Australia's top builders, homeowners, and landscapers. In case you have queries or want a free sample, do reach out to us at 1300 830 274 or [email protected]

*Disclaimer: All information and advice given above in the blog are to the best of our knowledge. Please reconfirm at your end before execution.