Posted on 26th November 2025
In hard landscaping, choosing the right natural stone isn’t just about appearance. It’s about selecting a material that performs, endures and fits the demands of the job.
At Stone & Surfaces Direct, we specialise in supplying trade-quality natural stone paving and cladding materials directly from the quarry. This guide helps trade buyers identify the best stone types, understand key specification details and choose materials suited to real-world project conditions.
This remains one of the most popular options for UK landscapers due to its natural variation, affordability and traditional aesthetic. Our Riven Indian Sandstone Paving range includes calibrated and uncalibrated versions such as Raj Blend.
Key features:
Available in 18 mm or 22 mm calibrated thickness
Autumnal colour palette with tones of brown, beige, green and grey
Riven surface for excellent slip resistance
Suitable for patios, paths and garden areas
Limestone paving offers a softer, more uniform look. Our calibrated and riven limestone products come in neutral shades like cream, buff, yellow and black. Popular for contemporary and heritage builds alike.
Example:
Riven Black Limestone Calibrated Paving (60x60 cm), from £21.25 per m²
25 mm Riven Yellow Limestone, from £25.94 per m²
Limestone is colourfast, unlike concrete alternatives that may fade in direct sunlight.
Granite and slate are ideal where durability and texture are a priority. While less prominently featured in the site’s blogs, both are listed under our Natural Stone Paving category and offer premium performance for high-traffic and commercial applications.
The colour of your chosen stone sets the tone of the entire space.
Raj Blend sandstone mixes browns, greys and greens for a rustic, natural finish
Yellow and cream-toned limestone creates a warm, traditional look
Blue-grey limestone or black slate provides a cool, modern aesthetic
Slip resistance is vital for external use. Riven finishes offer excellent traction, especially in wet or frosty conditions. Calibrated stones with a consistent thickness make installation quicker and more precise.
Natural stone weathers naturally and gracefully. It is inherently strong, UV stable and suitable for year-round outdoor use. Unlike concrete, it does not lose colour or structure with age.
Calibrated stones in 18 mm or 22 mm thickness simplify laying and reduce labour time.
For a clean, contemporary look, choose a calibrated limestone or slate with uniform thickness and subtle tones.
For a rustic or character-led restoration, Indian sandstone is a reliable choice. Raj Blend, in particular, offers visual interest and a traditional riven finish suitable for older properties and garden pathways.
Granite and dense limestone are ideal for courtyards, public spaces and other areas with footfall or vehicular loading. Choose thicker formats and ensure appropriate sub-base preparation.
Raj Blend Sandstone Paving - Uncalibrated
Natural sandstone with blends of brown and light grey. Perfect for garden patios and pathways. Hard wearing.
Riven Black Limestone Calibrated Paving - 60x60 cm
From £21.25 per m². Charcoal black tone. Suitable for patios and pathways with a moody, time-worn finish.
25 mm Riven Yellow Limestone Calibrated Paving
Warm mix of yellow and cream. Ideal for traditional garden designs.
Kota Blue/Grey Limestone Calibrated Riven Paving
Warm blue-grey tones. Consistent thickness for quick, efficient installation.
Trade buyers can use our product pages to access specifications, request pricing or place bulk orders.
We eliminate the middlemen. All materials are supplied directly from quarry or factory, reducing costs and delays.
"Our prices are trade-focused because you buy direct from the source.”
All materials meet CE standards and come with declarations of performance. We work with partners that follow ethical quarrying and processing practices.
We maintain consistent stock on core lines and offer calibrated thickness, large packs and technical documentation suitable for trade quoting and installation.
All orders are shipped directly from source with fast UK-wide delivery.
When it comes to hard landscaping, natural stone remains unmatched for durability, beauty and long-term performance. With Stone & Surfaces Direct, trade buyers gain access to a reliable, efficient supply of high-quality paving and walling products at true trade prices.
Whether you’re designing a modern garden terrace, restoring a period courtyard or specifying for a commercial build, choosing the right stone matters. By focusing on colour, texture, durability and installation benefits, you can ensure your project is built to last.
Explore our full range of natural stone paving and cladding here. Access trade pricing, product documentation and UK-wide delivery direct from the quarry.
Stone & Surfaces Direct - premium natural stone supplied for trade professionals, direct from quarry to site.
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