Limestone pavers are popular natural paving stones in Australia and all over the world. The neutral colour palette, strength and clean lines lend a sophistication that complements any design style. They are most used in wet areas like backyards and pools because of their water-resistant and tough nature.
High-quality limestones are durable, resist salt attack and weather well in the harsh Australian climate. Outdoor & General supplies high-quality limestone with excellent colour, density and cut, produced by high-end quarries.
What is limestone?
Limestone is a sedimentary rock that occurs worldwide and most commonly forms in marine waters. Over millions of years, deposits of shell, organic material and coral accumulate, become compressed and solidify into rock. Calcite, a form of calcium carbonate, is the primary mineral in limestone. Other particles often found in limestone include chert, pyrite and feldspar.
The amount of pressure exerted during formation affects the final density and strength of the rock. When viewed in cross-section, small particulates of shell or other inclusions may still be visible.
Pure high-quality limestone can range from white to blue-grey. Limestone can also come in brown, tan, off-white, yellow or black according to the presence of other minerals and animal by-products embedded in the deposits as stone forms.
Some of the best limestones come from Egypt, which provided the limestone for the Great Pyramids and other famous monuments that have survived for thousands of years.
Where can I use limestone pavers?
Limestone can be used in a variety of commercial and residential applications depending on the quality of the stone and the intended use. Quality limestone has been incorporated into many grand hotel designs. These natural stones can also be used externally as pavers in 20mm and 30mm thickness for a variety of applications including:
- Stepping stones
- Pool copings and surrounds
- Walkways
- Entryways
- Borders
Limestone pavers reflect heat, making them one of the coolest stone pavers to walk on during hot weather. Its counterpart, travertine pavers, also have similar characteristics. Limestone pavers resist salt attacks and when properly finished, they have a high slip rating which makes them an ideal natural stone pool paver.
The load-bearing capacity of limestone pavers may not be in the same league as granite or basalt & bluestone pavers. However, the load-bearing capacity and durability of a stone are usually tied to its thickness, length and density.
The limestone flooring of the Louvre Museum in France withstands the foot traffic of more than 8 million people each year. Increasing the thickness of a paver also increases its resistance to breakage.
Are limestone pavers costly?
The price of limestone varies according to the composition and quality of the material, which means lower grades of stone will be cheaper. However, they are often softer and more porous. Over time, these stones may crumble, stain or lose their finish.
Thicker, high-quality pavers are more expensive but will last lifetimes if properly cared for. Our limestones come in 20mm and 30 mm thicknesses, are highly durable, and maintain consistent colour and texture.
The knowledgeable staff at Outdoor & General can help you select natural limestone pavers that work with your budget and complement your design.
You can shop online or visit our showroom in Punchbowl, New South Wales, to experience first-hand the superior characteristics of our stone. Feel free to call (02) 9791 1595 to discuss your needs.