Unlike mass-produced options, natural stone paving slabs are timeless and literally one of a kind: perfect to give your patio a sophisticated and distinctive look.
However, not all natural slabs are the same.

Here are the best types of natural stone to choose from to achieve the right feel in your outdoor area.

Best types of natural stone paving slabs for your patio

1. Limestone

Smooth and reliable, limestone is a fantastic choice if you’re hoping for fairly consistent grains and colour.

At Stamford Stone at Home we source much of our limestone from the Lincolnshire Oolitic belt, from quarries owned by an alternative family business, Stamford Stone – a world-class, award-winning stone supplier.  

For your patio, we especially recommend the charming cathedral gold limestone slabs, which, as the name suggests, are creamy gold in colour. The paving slabs are sandblasted and lightly tumbled to create a softer finish.

2. Sandstone

Sandstone is the best type of natural stone paving slab for you if you are hoping for more variety. Not only does this Sandstone offer more options when it comes to colour: because it’s easier to cut, it’s also available in lots of different shapes.

One of our favourites is Holden Opus which comes in a variety of sizes so you can create your own bespoke pattern. The slabs themselves vary in colours including yellows, greys and brown tones.

Other sandstone favourites include York stone, Heritage Autumn Cobbles and Whitton.

Sandstone is extremely easy to clean and impeccable at withstanding colder and harsher conditions, making it ideal as a patio slab choice.

3. Granite

While the first two types of natural stone paving slabs involve sedimentary materials, granite is an igneous stone. This might mean that it’s a bit harder to cut, but also that it’s extremely durable.

Because it’s thermally stable and has the lowest porosity, granite isn’t affected by dramatic changes of temperature nor heavy rains (perfect with even the most unpredictable weather!).

We currently offer granite paving slabs in two elegant Heritage styles: stunning Minster Black and Willow Grey.

Local masonry natural stone suppliers

As your local and trusted natural stone tile suppliers, we’re here to help with all of your external (and internal) stone tiling requirements.

Tips on how to cut natural stone paving slabs

If you are planning to install your own stone flooring, always remember to begin by measuring the perimeter of the specific area and use chalk to draw the right cuts to fill it.

You’ve then got a choice of three methods to cut your stone:

• Hammer and chisel: the simplest and oldest solutions are often the best. Use these tools to cut a channel (around 1-2 mm) into your tile, split it with a rubber mallet, and tidy it by using the hammer and chisel to chip away any excess stone left behind;
• Power saw: this is a more practical solution for tougher types of natural stones like granite. Be sure to secure your slabs to a workbench using C-clamps, cut through your chalk lines (around 1 cm), then turn them to repeat this process on the opposite side;
• Hire a slab splitter: all you need to do is lift its handle, place a slab with the chalk line in the spot where it will be cut, and lower the handle by applying the right force to split it.

Garden and patio natural stone paving stones

Thanks to our wide range of paving stones, we’re guaranteed to have the right solution for your needs, budget, and vision. If you want to see our stone for yourself, why not order a stone sample or download our brochures?

Alternatively, get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your project and/or book a showroom appointment.