What is Indian sandstone?

Indian sandstone is a sedimentary rock quarried primarily in India and imported for use as paving material in the UK. It is a common choice for patios, terraces, and garden paths because of its durability, natural appearance, and availability in warm earth tones ranging from reds and browns to greys and buffs.

The stone is supplied in two main finishes. Riven sandstone has a natural, cleft surface created by splitting along the stone's grain, giving it a textured, rustic appearance with slight variation in thickness. Sawn sandstone is cut with a blade to produce flat, uniform surfaces with cleaner edges, making it suitable for more formal layouts. Both finishes are often calibrated, meaning graded to consistent thickness (typically 20mm, 25mm, or 30mm) to simplify laying and create even surfaces.

Indian sandstone performs well in the UK climate, though proper drainage and sealing can extend its life and maintain colour depth. Its popularity among homeowners and contractors stems from its combination of visual character, workability, and cost relative to other natural stones. When planning a patio or garden project, patio installation providers can advise on finish choice, thickness calibration, and laying patterns suited to your space.