Slate is a metamorphic rock made from compressed layers of clay and volcanic ash. Its naturally cleft surface creates a rustic, weathered look, making it ideal for traditional or countryside-style designs. Slate tiles are typically dark grey, blue, or green, and offer excellent durability and slip resistance—perfect for patios, pathways, and even interiors like kitchens and bathrooms.
Sandstone forms from compacted sand grains and minerals, making it highly porous but also strong and tactile. Each slab carries natural variation in tone and texture, ranging from warm buffs and browns to cool greys. Its riven finish provides natural grip, making it great for outdoor use, though it’s also commonly used inside for a continuous flow between garden and living space.
Limestone is created from compressed marine materials - like shells and coral - which gives it beautiful fossil markings and soft veining. It's a smoother, more refined option than sandstone or slate and is available in creamy beiges, greys, and deeper tones. Limestone works well in modern and traditional settings, indoors or out, and is often used when a softer, more muted finish is desired.
Large-format slabs of natural stone with random or mixed lengths and widths. They are most often used in patios, courtyards, and landscaped garden spaces to achieve a natural, flowing layout. Their scale and shape make them ideal for traditional designs or large open areas.
Slabs are typically rectangular or square stone or concrete pieces used for paving flat, even surfaces. Unlike flags, slabs tend to come in more uniform dimensions and are perfect for creating clean, structured pathways, patios, and terraces in both residential and commercial spaces.
Usually thinner than slabs or flags, tiles are suited for indoor use on floors and walls. However, thicker tiles can also be used externally in covered areas. Natural stone tiles add a premium, tactile feel to kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and other internal spaces.
Setts are small, cube or brick-shaped stones (often granite or sandstone) used in high-traffic areas like driveways, pathways, and courtyards. With a minimum 30mm thickness, they provide incredible durability. Their classic cobbled look is ideal for heritage or period-style settings.
Paviours are engineered blocks made from natural stone, concrete, or clay. They're designed for structural performance and aesthetic uniformity, especially on driveways and patios. Paviours create a crisp, grid-like appearance, and are often chosen for modern landscaping.
Like all of our products, our slate aggregates are sourced directly from the quarry, with no middlemen involved. This means you're getting the highest quality product straight from the source - ensuring better value, consistency, and traceability. These coarse to medium-grade crushed slate pieces are ideal for both decorative and practical landscaping applications.
They’re perfect for use in:
Garden borders
Pathways
Driveways
Ground cover for weed suppression
Low-maintenance planting areas
Slate aggregates come in rich, natural tones - such as grey, blue, plum, and green - that bring a modern, clean look to any outdoor space.
Chippings are angular pieces of crushed stone, usually larger than 10mm. Their sharp edges lock into place better than rounded gravel, making them ideal for paths, borders, and low-maintenance beds. Available in a wide variety of colours and finishes -from deep slate to sparkling granite.
Gravel consists of rounded or crushed stone fragments and is often used interchangeably with chippings. It’s excellent for garden paths, driveways, and planting beds. Its texture provides natural drainage and a relaxed, informal appearance.
Stone mulch is a decorative ground cover used around plants or across garden beds. Unlike organic mulches (like bark), stone mulch won’t break down over time, making it a low-maintenance, weed-suppressing option. It also reflects sunlight and helps regulate soil temperature.
Coverage refers to the amount of product needed to cover a given area to a desired depth. For example, chippings and gravel will require more depth (usually 40–50mm) than tiles or slabs. Each of our product listings includes approximate coverage guidance to help you order the right quantity.
At Stone & Surfaces Direct, every product we sell comes directly from the source or quarry. There are no middlemen, no additional handling, and no inflated pricing.
This allows us to:
Offer better value to our customers
Maintain consistent product quality
Provide accurate, informed advice about each material
Whether you're ordering slate chippings, paving flags, or decorative tiles - you’re dealing with the direct supplier, not a reseller.
We offer small sample pieces so you can view the colour, texture, and quality of our stone in person before placing a full order. Please note: as all natural stone varies by batch, samples provide a general indication -not a guaranteed match. If consistency is important for your project, feel free to contact us for further guidance.
Not sure which material is best for your space?
Need advice on quantity, delivery, or installation?
Our experienced team of 25+ years is always happy to help - get in touch for advice tailored to your project, or email us via enquiries@stoneandsurfaces.co.uk
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