Kandla Grey Indian sandstone is widely regarded as a durable, practical paving stone for UK patios, paths, and garden terraces. It has earned its reputation by being laid in thousands of British gardens over many years, proving it can cope with damp weather, seasonal temperature changes, and everyday foot traffic.
However, durability in natural stone depends on two factors: the stone's inherent strength and the quality of installation, jointing, and maintenance. Kandla Grey performs well naturally, and it excels when basic best practices are followed. You can explore a wide variety of these materials in our paving slabs and patio slabs collection.
Why Kandla Grey Performs Well in UK Gardens
Kandla Grey sandstone offers a sound balance of hardness, density, and surface texture. It is a sensible choice for general domestic paving because it is strong enough for normal use, has good slip resistance, and weathers in a predictable, natural way. This reliability is why it remains a staple in our best sellers list.
- Proven track record: It is one of the most commonly specified Indian sandstones in the UK; its performance is well understood by installers.
- Weather suitability: When correctly laid, it copes well with rain, cold snaps, and the seasonal movement typical of British gardens.
- Practical surface texture: Riven or lightly textured surfaces help maintain grip on patios, steps, and paths.
What “Durable” Really Means for Sandstone
Sandstone is not the hardest paving stone—granite and porcelain out-rank it for sheer abrasion resistance. However, a patio fails far more often due to poor bedding, weak joints, or inadequate drainage than because the stone itself lacked strength. Within the broader category of sandstone paving, Kandla Grey is noted for its particularly dense composition.
With Kandla Grey, the stone is rarely the weak link. Problems usually appear when the sub-base is incorrect or when pointing is left open, allowing water to settle under the system.
Key Factors That Affect Durability
To ensure your Kandla Grey sandstone paving lasts, focus on these fundamentals of installation:
1. Correct Bedding
For UK installations, sandstone should be laid on a full mortar bed rather than spot-bedded (the "dot and dab" method). Full bedding supports the slab evenly, reducing movement and preventing rocking, cracking, or water pooling.
2. Sub-base Strength and Drainage
A well-compacted sub-base is essential. Proper excavation prevents settlement, while intentional "falls" (slopes) ensure water runs off the surface rather than soaking into the joints.
3. Jointing and Water Management
Open joints invite trouble. Water ingress encourages algae and contributes to freeze-thaw stresses in winter. Using a suitable jointing product protects both the paving and the bedding layer beneath it.
Slip Resistance and Safety
Kandla Grey is often chosen for its natural, slightly textured surface. In riven finishes, it generally offers good grip underfoot, which is useful for garden paths that experience rain and morning dew. For those seeking a more contemporary finish, Kandla Grey smooth sandstone paving provides a sleek look while remaining a durable natural option.
Staining, Colour Variation, and Weathering
As a natural stone, expect variation in tone and occasional mineral markings. Over time, the surface will weather. In most UK gardens, this is not a defect; it is simply the stone settling into its environment. If you require a patio that remains identical forever, porcelain is the more controlled option; if you want a look that matures with age, sandstone is the sound choice.
Should Kandla Grey Be Sealed?
Sealing is not compulsory but can be sensible. An impregnating sealer reduces water absorption and makes routine cleaning easier. It is particularly recommended for:
- BBQ and outdoor dining areas (to protect against oil/food spills).
- Patios located directly under trees.
- Maintaining the "new" look for longer.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
- Loose or rocking slabs: Usually caused by spot bedding or weak sub-base compaction.
- Persistent dark patches: Often linked to trapped moisture or unsuitable bedding methods.
- Green algae film: Common in shaded areas; manage with sweeping and improved airflow.
- Joint wash-out: Caused by using the wrong jointing product for the level of exposure.
Comparison: Kandla Grey vs. Other Materials
| Material | Durability Profile |
|---|---|
| Kandla Grey | Practical middle ground; traditional look with good all-round performance. |
| Porcelain | Extremely low porosity and stain resistant; requires specialist primers/adhesives. |
| Granite | Hardest and most abrasion-resistant; higher cost and more commercial appearance. |
Conclusion
Kandla Grey Indian sandstone is a durable and proven choice for UK gardens when installed using correct methods: a solid sub-base, a full mortar bed, and proper jointing. It offers a traditional natural-stone appearance that suits British landscapes and weathers in a way that many homeowners prefer. Done properly, Kandla Grey is a practical, long-lasting paving option with a track record to match.
