At this time of year, thoughts inevitably turn to outdoor living. And there’s been a definite trend towards stone flooring which flows seamlessly from indoors to outside, to create an al fresco living or cooking area.
Clearly, the material you use for a project like this has to be strong enough to withstand the elements. And ideally it will be frost-proof, too. So you may well find limestone is the ideal, versatile choice for a job like this.
Considerations for using limestone outside
If your limestone is pale, it can be more vulnerable than its darker counterparts, and more prone to glare so that dirt shows up more readily.
When it comes to grout and adhesives, you also need to be sure that these are fit for purpose.
Equally, you need to bear in mind that internal and outside limestone flooring will age at different rates. So, over time, certain areas could end up looking quite different from each other. But if you choose a mellow shade, that could make such differences less obvious.
What’s the best finish for outdoor limestone?
You may be better off steering clear of smooth, honed stone, since this can be quite slippery. But sandblasted or brushed tiles can work well, since these versions typically have a non-slip finish. What’s more, ultimately they’ll look just the same as a honed design anyway.
What about tile size and pattern?
When it comes to these aspects, you’ll need to think about flow, continuity and where you want the eye to be led. Large-sized slabs, which tend to have square edges, are popular. But you’ll need a particularly flat sub-floor to create a level surface which has no trip hazards.
Alternatively, aged or tumbled limestone flooring makes a great choice if there are irregularities you want to conceal. At the same time, a thicker stone does better outdoors. For example, 30mm is good to fit over a compact hardcore. However, with a concrete base, you may be able to get away with something slightly thinner.
Additionally, you need to consider drainage, so that rain runs off and doesn’t pool in some places.
Talk to us
Royal Stone Care, specialises in looking after limestone, containing limestone cleaning and restoration in London. Get in touch with us today – and learn about how we could help you to have your outdoor limestone in tip-top condition as summer approaches.
