Bluestone tiles are a popular type of natural stone tile. They are commonly used as paving and wall cladding in both indoor and outdoor settings. Bluestone is a sedimentary rock that is composed of quartz, feldspar, mica and other minerals and is named after its distinctive blue-grey colour.
Bluestone tiles are available in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, and finishes, including natural cleft, honed, and polished. These natural stone tiles are prized for their durability and versatility. They are able to withstand heavy foot traffic, are resistant to scratches and stains, and can withstand exposure to the elements, making them a popular choice for outdoor applications.
Is bluestone suitable for outdoor use?
Bluestone tiles are generally suitable for outdoor use. This natural stone is extremely durable in all weather conditions, such as rain, snow and extreme temperatures, and has excellent water resistance, making it popular for outdoor paving and flooring. Bluestones are also resistant to wear and tear, meaning this natural stone tile is also suitable for high-traffic areas.
Finding bluestone tiles for outdoor use
When choosing bluestone tiles for outdoor use, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you select the right product for your project. To start, not all bluestone tiles are created equal. The source of bluestone and the manufacturing process can impact the quality of bluestone tiles. Therefore, look for quality bluestones that are designed for outdoor use. This usually implies these tiles are durable, weather-resistant and able to withstand the demands of outdoor environments.
To ensure your investment in bluestone tiles can last, bluestone tiles must be properly installed and maintained for the tiles. This includes sealing the tiles to protect them from stains and regular cleaning to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris.
In terms of thickness, outdoor bluestone tiles should be at least 1.25 inches thick to ensure they are strong enough to withstand the weight of foot traffic and outdoor furniture.
Thinking about styling and looks, the colours, texture, size and finish of the bluestone tiles are key considerations. Your property’s colour, for example, may work with lighter-coloured tiles in a natural finish.
How to differentiate indoor and outdoor bluestone tiles?
The main difference between indoor and outdoor bluestone tiles is their durability and weather resistance. Outdoor bluestone tiles are specifically designed to withstand the harsh elements of the outdoors, while indoor bluestone tiles do not have the same level of weather resistance.
Also, indoor bluestone tiles are typically finished with a polished or honed surface to create a smooth, glossy finish, while outdoor bluestone tiles are usually left with a more natural, textured finish. While indoor bluestone tiles come in a range of colours, outdoor bluestone tiles are typically darker in colour, as they are more resistant to fading from exposure to sunlight.
With regards to sizes, outdoor bluestone tiles are generally thicker and larger than indoor tiles, as they need to be able to withstand the weight of outdoor furniture, foot traffic, and exposure to the elements.
For installation, outdoor bluestone tiles are different from indoor tiles, with their additional need to be installed with a proper drainage system to prevent water from pooling and causing damage.
Finally, outdoor bluestone tiles require more maintenance than indoor tiles, as they are exposed to weather conditions and may need to be sealed to prevent staining and damage.
