The options
- York stone: the traditional sandstone of Yorkshire, in buffs, greys and browns. New sawn York stone is crisp and even; reclaimed flags have a worn, characterful surface.
- Indian sandstone: widely available in riven (textured) or sawn (smooth) finishes and many colours, from buff and grey to warm multi-tones.
- Limestone: smooth, often blue-grey or black, with a refined look that suits contemporary extensions.
How we lay it
Natural stone needs a full mortar bed, not spots of mortar under the corners, which leave voids for water and frost. Over a compacted sub-base, each slab is bedded fully, with the back primed where the stone calls for it. Joints are filled with a jointing mortar or a suitable compound, and the whole patio falls gently away from the house.
In shade
Many York yards are shaded by high walls. Riven sandstone can hold moisture and turn green in the shade. A sawn finish or a denser stone is easier to keep clean there.
Next to old brick
Buff and grey stones generally sit well against York's red-brown brick. We keep a margin along old walls where needed so moisture isn't trapped against the brickwork.
