Limestone and Sandstone are the two most popular natural stones that you must have heard of them. They both have amazing characteristics and for that they are known to be versatile materials all over the world. When you look around, there is a strong chance that you see one of them, used for applications like paving or wall cladding. The only problem can be recognizing them from each other, they can seem very similar which make it hard and confusing for many people to recognize them from one another. Here in this article we will compare them in detailed aspect, therefore we hope at the end you get enough information to spot each of them.

Sandstone and Limestone's Differences in composition

The major limestone difference compare to sandstone can be composition and minerals involved in formation process of these natural stones. any limestone is somehow made out calcium carbonate –as it called calcite -compositions. The origin of calcite is generally from leftover plant and animal skeletons or remnants like the shells of mollusks. In comparison, Sandstone is known to be made out of any substance. It also consists many sand sized grains. For instance, it can include quartz. Also, Sandstone is can be made out of various elements that end up to shape a large rock or just a surface like feldspar, mica, lithic fragments, and biogenic debris like shells.

Limestone's Differences in formation process

Limestone difference in formation process is that, when living organisms that usually consist decomposed calcium carbonate and they are can be found in shallow parts of the ocean. These organisms can include mollusks, echinoids, and corals. Also most of the limestone's are found in beds form in marine environments, which means that in the past huge deposits of organisms and carbonate precipitation has build up over the years in there. As for sandstone, most of the sandstones are made out of sandy pieces or small particles that are glued together with aggregates such as mud. Just like any other type of sedimentary rocks, their formation process can take some time. As a result, sandstones are durable, versatile and beautiful natural stones.

Sandstone's Differences in classification

Natural stones can have many classifications. One of the popular ways for geologist to categories natural stones is due to their formation process. Based on formation process of natural stones, they can be categorized in one of these three groups: Sedimentary rocks, Igneous rocks, and Metamorphic rocks. Geologists also have more advanced classifications in which they use combine descriptions of texture and composition of natural stones. Limestone and sandstone are both categorized in the same group which is Sedimentary rocks. sandstones due to the types of grains and their amount, they are categorized in different groups. For example, the ferriginous sandstone is known to denote high iron content. An informal and subcategory of limestone can be described due to the type of carbonate that the stone contains and made out of. For instance, calcite, aragonite and dolomite.

Sandstone and Limestone's Differences in characteristics

Durability

Limestone and Sandstone are both famous as sturdy materials that can pass the test of time. Both of the two stones are score high on weather and can endure physical wearing which can makes them a suitable and ideal options for applications like paving for outdoors. Durability is one of the positive features for both Limestone and Sandstone. But if we compare them carefully and in details, Sandstone is slightly softer than limestone which means that it can be easier to work. This feature can also make the stone bound to scratching or denting, especially when used for in indoor uses. By having this feature, sandstone is still more dense than limestone and that is the reason why it has been used widely all over the world.

Appearance differences

In comparison for texture, Limestone has a flat, smooth and more cohesive texture than Sandstone. This features makes limestone to be suitable paving materials for driveways, pathways or landscaping the backyards. The even finished and surface of Limestone makes it an ideal material option for indoor applications to. In comparison to sandstone, the Limestone pavers can stand out with their smoothness, but they are available in fewer color pallets that can put a limit to the uses of this stone. Also another limestone difference in appearance with sandstone is that sandstones can present a more natural look. They can display various visible layers and based on the angle and depth of each layer, professionals can understand how the rock was formed.

 

Different Acid Reactions

Another major limestone difference to sandstone that can come handy when you want to maintain them is its reaction to acids. As we mentioned earlier, Limestone is a made out of calcite which indicates that it can react actively with strong acids. So if you are considering having a limestone paver, should remember to avoid washing it with detergents that contain acidic solutions. In comparison we can say that Sandstone have a bit of resistance facing acids, because they wouldn’t react to mild acids. This means that sandstones are easier to clean than limestone's. They can be washed with detergents that contain chemicals. you should never forget to note that strong acids can damage sandstone.

Different performance in Water Resistant

Sandstones are slightly more porous than limestone's and they can absorb a little bit more water which means that they both are water-resistant. If the sandstone pavers are treated and a suitable sealant is applied on their surface; like limestone's they can remains unaffected by water. This is the reason why both of these natural stones can be spotted, used for paving around pools or wet areas.

Sandstone and Limestone's Differences in Slip Resistance

Limestone and Sandstone pavers both have such surface and textures that makes them naturally slip-resistant. But due to the finish that you decide to apply on your slab and tiles, you can increase and decrease their slip-resistance. For example, the polished Limestone becomes slippery specially when gets wet.

Which cost higher, Sandstone or Limestone?

They both are natural materials and can add instant value to your property when you install them. But in comparison, the cost of Limestone can be higher than Sandstone. You should also note that their cost is not as high other natural stones like marble. In addition to material cost you should think about the delivery and labor costs to. Some local companies deliver their products cost free. So before purchasing any products, you should calculate and think about different aspects.

Which to buy at last?

In conclusion Sandstone and Limestone both have similar properties and a routine maintenance. If you are looking for an interior paving material or something that can be installed around your property, Limestone would be more suitable material and we recommend it to you. but if you are on the hunt for natural stones with more color pallets and unique textures, the best choice is Sandstone. In the end whatever you choose, whether its sandstone or limestone, they can both be perfect as long as they deliver the purposes you want them to.

Hunters Pavers have been a paver, blocks and retaining wall supplier in Australia for a long time. Here we always try to provide the information and content that you need to know about various types of natural stone; as in this article "limestone differences compare to sandstones". If you have any more question this matter, contact us. our professional experts will help you in any way they can.