Sandstone: types, applications, colors and prices

We bring you the best information about sandstone: textures, colors, prices per square meter (m2), types, environments, finishes and uses.

  2. Natural Stone
  3. Sandstone

What is sandstone and what is it made of?

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock that is formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand grains. It is mainly composed of quartz, feldspar, mica and clay, and its color can vary depending on the minerals present in its composition.

Regarding its origin and extraction, sandstone is formed in sedimentary environments, such as beaches, deserts and river beds, where the accumulation of sand grains compacts over time. It is extracted from open pit quarries using mining techniques.

Where does sandstone come from?

The main sandstone quarries are located in countries such as India, China, the United States, Australia and Spain.

There are several varieties of sandstone, and their color varies from white and creamy tones to yellow, red, brown and gray. Color variations are due to the presence of different minerals and oxides.


How colors are formed in sandstones

Here is a general explanation of how colors are formed in sandstone:

  1. Constituent Minerals:
    • Quartz: Contributes to white and gray tones.
    • Feldespar: It can provide white tones and also warmer colors such as yellows and reds.
    • Mica: Can add shine and contribute to silver colors.
    • Iron Oxides: Mainly responsible for red and yellow tones.
    • Clay: May affect the color and texture of the stone.
  2. Sedimentation Environment:
    • In environments rich in iron oxides, sandstone tends to take on warmer colors, such as red and yellow tones.
    • Environments with fewer oxides can produce whiter or grayer sandstones.
  • Cementation Process:
    • Cementation, which is the joining of sand grains to form the rock, can influence the intensity of the color.
    • The pressure and temperature during the cementation process can affect the distribution and color of the minerals.
  • Organic Content:
    • The presence of organic matter can contribute to the formation of dark colors.
    • Oxidation of organic materials can influence darker and duller tones.
    Varieties of Colors in Sandstone:
    • White and Gray: Dominated by quartz and feldspar, with less presence of oxides.
    • Red and Yellow:
      • Significant presence of iron oxides.
    • Brown: Combination of minerals such as quartz, feldspar and oxides.

    Main uses of natural sandstone stone

    Sandstone is widely used in construction and decoration due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. It is used in the manufacture of paving stones, wall coverings, pavements, countertops, sculptures and decorative elements and stands out mainly in your kitchen, bathrooms, outdoors such as terraces, floors and swimming pools, and indoors (walls and floors).

    Sandstones are popular mainly for the following reasons:

    • Aesthetics: Sandstone offers a natural and attractive aesthetic.
    • Versatility: Adapts to a variety of applications.
    • Durability: It is resistant to abrasion and weather.

    Colors and shades of sandstone

    The variety of colors in sandstone is due to the presence of different minerals and oxides in its composition. The formation of these colors is influenced by various geological and environmental factors during the sedimentation and consolidation process.

    The formation of colors in sandstone is a complex result of mineral composition, sedimentation environment, and geological processes over time. The diversity of colors makes sandstone a versatile and aesthetically attractive choice in construction and decoration.

    Sandstone Colour Fossil Yellow
    Fossil Yellow
    Sandstone Colour Teak Sandstone
    Teak Sandstone
    Sandstone Colour Pink Lumaquela
    Pink Lumaquela
    Sandstone Colour Niwala Yellow
    Niwala Yellow
    Sandstone Colour Floresta Stone
    Floresta Stone
    Sandstone Colour Pietra Serena
    Pietra Serena
    Sandstone Colour Dorada Urbion
    Dorada Urbion
    Sandstone Colour Beige Sandstone
    Beige Sandstone

    Applications and uses of sandstone

    Sandstone is a versatile material that is used in a wide variety of applications in construction and decoration. Some of the main applications of sandstone include:

    The best sandstones from our factory to your home

    At Marble Store - Mármoles Andrés Marín we are manufacturers of the main sandstones of the moment, such as fossil yellow, Teka sandstone, pink Lumaquela, Niwala, Floresta stone, Petra Serena sandstone , the golden Urbión or the Beige with which we make all types of applications and send them to any part of the world where you need them, at low prices without intermediaries.

    We can produce large quantities thanks to our technology and our work team to supply the amount of Limestone you need at all times with very short shipping times.

    We ship sandstone to any part of the world

    We have preferential agreements with both national and international means of transport to be able to take our best sandstone to any part of the world at very reasonable prices. Ask us for a quote for the natural stone you need and we will immediately send you prices for shipping costs.

    Hundreds of residences and all types of works around the world are built with sandstone from our factory in Caravaca, with countries such as France or Switzerland being the main export destinations.

    Sandstone Finishes / Treatments

    We call finishing any treatment that is carried out on sandstone and that provides a touch of beauty and, above all, covers the habitability needs that it requires. For example, a bush-hammered treatment to the sandstone to prevent it from slipping in humid or wet conditions. There are basically two types of finish, those applied to the face of the sandstone and those applied to the edge of the stone. We detail them below.

    The finishes we apply to the sandstone surface

    Normally we can apply up to 8 types of treatment on the surface of the sandstone. Each finish provides different qualities to the natural stone depending on the operation, application or use that is going to be given to it.

    Bush hammered

    Bush hammered Sandstone

    The bush-hammered finish of the sandstone is achieved by hitting the surface of the sandstone with a hammer or also called a bush hammer, achieving a uniform and rough appearance, which achieves greater grip.

    Main uses of bush-hammered sandstone

    • Exteriors: facades, floors, pavements, stairs and pool edges, especially to avoid slipping when wet or damp.

    Honed

    Limestone Honed

    This finish gives the limestone a smooth, matte surface. Just as the polished finish has a crystalline shine, the honed finish has a shine although it gives us a very smooth texture.

    More and more customers are choosing the honed finish because of the possibilities it offers.

    How to obtain the honed limestone

    The type of honed finish on limestone is achieved with rotating wheels on its surface that "scorch" it, presenting different granulometries depending on the goal to be achieved.

    Main uses of the honed finish of Limestone


    • Interiors, it can be used on floors and wall cladding
    • Outdoors mainly on facades

    Sandblasted

    Sandblasted Limestone

    The sandblasted finish gives the limestone a slight grainy relief, which results in a base with a very fine dotted pattern that is not smooth, but uniform in its texture. The sandblasting of limestone is obtained by exposing the surface to a jet of silica sand, causing a soft abrasion.

    Main uses of sandblasted limestone

    • Outdoors, especially floors and facades
    • Indoors it is not usually used for its rough texture

    Raw

    Raw Limestone

    The finish of raw, sawn or cut limestone is achieved by sawing the piece of limestone with diamond discs or strips. The result is a rough, scratchy and dull limestone.

    Uses of raw limestone

    • Exterior floors and paving, due to its grip capacity
    • Interior floors for polishing "in situ", it is the ideal to achieve the best result

    Aged

    Aged Limestone

    The aged limestone finish seeks to transmit the passage of time and allows us to achieve a classic atmosphere. To achieve this finish, different types of discs and brushes are used that make it smooth, old and worn at the same time, but also rough.

    Uses of Aged limestone

    • Mainly in interior limestone floors, paving, cladding and cladding

    Ground

    Ground Limestone

    The ground limestone, quite simply, is a dull limestone to prevent it from slipping, which is why it is widely used on outdoor floors.

    Grinding is achieved with fewer passes than for honing, that is, a puttying process is passed (covering the pores and fissures with the limestone-colored putty) and it is treated in the polisher with a single pass to smooth a little and Go over the remains of the putty from the pores and fissures.

    With the grinding, the cut marks that have remained from the rough phase and the finish of the marble are eliminated, being matte although with less pores and rusticity. To obtain ground limestone, a 60 granulometry carborundum wheel is used.

    Uses of ground limestone

    • Ground limestone is used mainly on exterior floors and facades

    Uses of ground limestone

    • Ground limestone is mainly used outdoors

    Scarfiled

    Scarfiled Limestone

    The scarfilado gives the limestone a rustic appearance, discovering reliefs and irregularities that give it a unique touch. Its appearance is very similar to that of a split fragment with a natural cut but with more reliefs. It is being used not only in rustic settings but also in the most avant-garde spaces.

    This aspect is achieved by striking with chisels and traditional tools on the marble that gives off splinters.

    Uses of scarfiled limestone

    • Grinded limestone is mainly used in interior and exterior facades and limestone cladding

    The treatments applied to the edges of a piece of sandstone

    There is a wide variety of finishes that can be applied to sandstone edges. Remember that we can do any type of finish you need, although the most common are:

    We are manufactures We manufacture for you
    Quick Deliveries We ship worldwide
    Factory prices Without intermediaries
    Wide Catalog Assorted colors
    quality sandstone Specially selected
    Cut to size projects With personalized attention

    What is the price of sandstone? How is the square meter of sandstone?

    The price of the highest quality sandstone, like the one we manufacture at TiendadelMarmol.com, will depend on factors such as the color, type or treatment applied to its face or edge. The price of sandstone per square meter is also affected by the size of the piece and especially by the quantity. What is the price per square meter (m2) of sandstone? we bring you a table of prices per m2 of the different sandstones in their most common formats and various treatments that are available. apply. Taxes, shipping or quantity discounts are not included.

    Types of sandstone Polish Rawn Honed Aged Sandblasted Bushhamered
    Fossil Yellow
    (Losas de 40x30x2 cm)     		25.82€/m215.32€/m223.89€/m225.8€/m231.89€/m232.07€/m2
    Teak Sandstone
    (Losas de 60x40x2 cm)     		50.8€/m240.3€/m248.87€/m250.78€/m256.87€/m257.05€/m2
    Pink Lumaquela
    (Losas de 40x30x2 cm)     		28.45€/m217.95€/m226.52€/m228.43€/m234.52€/m234.7€/m2
    Niwala Yellow
    (Losas de 40x30x2 cm)     		28.93€/m218.43€/m227€/m228.91€/m235€/m235.18€/m2
    Floresta Stone
    (Losas de 40x30x2 cm)     		31.61€/m221.11€/m229.68€/m231.59€/m237.68€/m237.86€/m2
    Pietra Serena
    (Losas de 60x40x2 cm)     		63.63€/m253.13€/m261.7€/m263.61€/m269.7€/m269.88€/m2
    Dorada Urbion
    (Losas de 80x40x2 cm)     		26.36€/m215.86€/m224.43€/m226.34€/m232.43€/m232.61€/m2
    Beige Sandstone
    (Losas de 40x30x3 cm)     		33.18€/m222.68€/m231.25€/m233.16€/m239.25€/m239.43€/m2

    Advantages of sandstone in Architecture and Interior Design

      Sandstone offers several advantages that make it popular in construction and decoration. Here are some of its main advantages:

      1. Natural Aesthetics: Sandstone provides a natural, earthy appearance that adds warmth and authenticity to architectural and landscape settings.
      2. Variety of Colors and Textures: Available in a wide range of colors, from whites and creams to reds, yellows and browns. In addition, it presents different textures that allow versatile design options.
      3. Durability: Sandstone is known for its durability and strength, making it suitable for various indoor and outdoor applications.
      4. Slip Resistance: Its naturally textured surface provides slip resistance, making it a safe option for flooring in outdoor areas, such as around swimming pools.
      5. Adaptability: It can be used in a variety of applications, such as wall coverings, floors, paving, countertops and decorative elements, making it highly adaptable to different design and construction needs.
      6. Easy to Work: Sandstone is relatively easy to cut and shape, making it easy to use in a variety of projects and applications.
      7. Low maintenance: It generally requires simple maintenance. Regular cleaning with water and mild detergents is sufficient to maintain its appearance.
      8. Moderate Thermal Conductivity: Unlike some materials, sandstone has moderate thermal conductivity, meaning that it does not tend to be too cold in winter or too hot in summer, providing pleasant thermal comfort.
      9. Weather Resistance: It is resistant to weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor applications and areas exposed to the elements.
      10. Sustainability: Sandstone is a renewable natural resource that forms over time in nature, making it a relatively sustainable option.
      11. Aesthetic value: It provides aesthetic value and a feeling of connection with nature, which can improve the overall appearance of a space.


      These advantages make sandstone a popular choice in a variety of design and construction contexts. However, it is important to note that proper use and maintenance are crucial to maximizing its benefits over time.

    Disadvantages of sandstone in your home

      Although sandstone has many advantages, it also has some disadvantages that should be taken into account when considering its use in construction and decorating projects. Here are some of the disadvantages of sandstone:

      1. Porosity: Sandstone is porous, meaning it can absorb liquids and stain more easily. This may require regular sealing to prevent water absorption and stain formation.
      2. Sensitivity to Acids: Sandstone can react negatively to acids, which can result in damage to the surface if it comes into contact with strong acidic substances.
      3. Wear and Erosion: Although durable, sandstone can experience wear and erosion over time, especially in high-traffic areas or outdoors exposed to harsh weather conditions.
      4. Quality Variability: The quality of sandstone can vary depending on the source of extraction. Some quarries produce higher quality stone than others, which can affect its strength and durability.
      5. Maintenance cost: Although regular maintenance is generally simple, the need for periodic sealing and sensitivity to certain chemicals can increase maintenance costs over time.
      6. Critical Selection of Sandstone Types: Choosing a specific type of sandstone is crucial. Some types may be more prone to decay, discoloration or brittleness, which would affect their long-term performance.
      7. Possible Discoloration: Prolonged exposure to bright sunlight can cause discoloration of some types of sandstone, especially those with lighter colors.
      8. Specific Installation: Installation of sandstone requires certain knowledge and skills. Improper installation can affect the structural integrity and aesthetics of the stone.
      9. Weight: Sandstone can be relatively heavy, which can affect the loading and design requirements of the structure in which it is used.


      When considering sandstone for a specific project, it is important to evaluate these disadvantages in relation to the specific requirements of the environment and intended use. Additionally, working with professionals experienced in sandstone installation and maintenance can help minimize some of these challenges.

    These are the most frequently asked questions from our customers about sandstone in our help channels. I hope they help you resolve your questions, but if not, contact us through one of our channels and we will give you a quick, free and no-obligation response.

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