{"id":21207,"date":"2019-05-31T04:21:56","date_gmt":"2019-05-31T04:21:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/?p=21207"},"modified":"2024-05-22T17:21:14","modified_gmt":"2024-05-22T07:21:14","slug":"6-things-you-should-know-when-using-bluestone-flooring-outdoors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/blog\/6-things-you-should-know-when-using-bluestone-flooring-outdoors\/","title":{"rendered":"6 Things You Need Know When Using Bluestone Pavers Flooring Outdoors"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"videoWrapper\">\n<div class=\"ratio ratio-16x9\"><iframe title=\"Bluestone Pavers: 6 Things You NEED Know About Bluestone Outdoors (2019)\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Wpxn64aJygs?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>1. What are Bluestone pavers made of?<\/h3>\n<p>\u201cBluestone pavers\u201d is a cultural name for a basalt stone.<\/p>\n<p>This is an igneous (volcanic) rock that forms after lava cools.<\/p>\n<p>Bluestone pavers are used widely in modern-day architecture and are loved by architects and homeowners alike.<\/p>\n<p>The \u201ccat paws\u201d throughout the stone truly bring out the volcanic properties of the rock and add a raw feel to any project.<\/p>\n<p>This is probably why bluestone is also a popular choice with many Australians.<\/p>\n<h2><strong><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-21403\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/BLUESTONE.jpg\" alt=\"BLUESTONE BOULDERS\" title=\"\"> <\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><em>Bluestone Boulders<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>2. Where are Bluestone pavers suitable to use?<\/h3>\n<p>Bluestone is an appropriate paver for your courtyard, patio and even poolside area.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/stone-pavers\/bluestone-pavers\/\">Bluestone pavers<\/a> are also available as accessory products.<\/p>\n<p>These include natural organic shaped <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" title=\"stepping stones\" href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/stepping-stones\/\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">stepping stones<\/a> that can transcend simple walking paths into exciting focal points.<\/p>\n<p>Bluestone pavers are dense and hard-wearing.<\/p>\n<p>As such, they stand the test of time and can easily withstand harsh weather conditions.<\/p>\n<p>This is why they are suitable for most residential or commercial applications.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-16007\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/Pianura-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/stone-pavers\/bluestone-pavers\/nulla\/\"><em>Nulla Bluestone Pavers<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Due to their durability and salt-resistance.<\/p>\n<p>Bluestone pavers are also a wise choice for <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/pool-coping\/\"   title=\"pool coping\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">pool coping<\/a> and general poolside areas.<\/p>\n<p>They can also be used in other outdoor areas that are susceptible to changing weather conditions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Bluestone walkways<\/strong> are also a great use of these pavers, adding elegance and durability to your paths.<\/p>\n<p>Bluestone pavers also have a P5, high-grade slip rating.<\/p>\n<p>So if you need a stone that gives you security for your family\u2019s safety.<\/p>\n<p>This stone is definitely worth your consideration.<\/p>\n<p>The combination of dark blue, grey and charcoal hues creates a minimalist feel in the stone.<\/p>\n<p>And gives a sleek contemporary finish without hindering surrounding garden environments.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Bluestone tiles<\/strong> are another format available, suitable for various architectural applications.<\/p>\n<p>Bluestone pavers mainly come in\u00a0<strong><em>Sawn, Sawn &amp; Honed and Flamed\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>finishes.<\/p>\n<p>So let\u2019s take a look at them individually:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sawn\u00a0<\/strong>finishes have sawn marks on the surface of the stone.This type of finish highlights the grey tones throughout the stone and gives it an enviable character throughout.\n<p>If you are looking for a plain and <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/sealers-and-cleaners\/cleaners\/\"   title=\"clean\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">clean<\/a> look for an outdoor space that is open to the elements.<\/p>\n<p>A sawn finish is an ideal choice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The rough surface on a sawn finish is created by cutting the stone with a diamond blade.<\/p>\n<p>This typically makes the stone lighter and gives it additional grip strength.<\/p>\n<p>Which makes it an excellent choice for outdoor paving.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-21253\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/sawn.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sawn &amp; Honed\u00a0<\/strong>finishes are non-slip and smooth on the feet.This makes them a perfect paving solution for areas that are exposed to ever-changing weather conditions and environments and foot traffic areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>How are these finishes created?<\/p>\n<p>The stones are first sawned (as we explained above).<\/p>\n<p>Next, they are honed (sharpened) in such a way that hides the saw marks.<\/p>\n<p>But still keeps the stone\u2019s surface non-slip.<\/p>\n<p>This process gives a P5 (Pendulum 5) finish.<\/p>\n<p>A <a href=\"http:\/\/www.floorsliptest.com.au\/wet-pendulum\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Pendulum Test for P rating<\/a>\u00a0basically measures the stone\u2019s surface slip rating.<\/p>\n<p>P5 is the highest grade of grip strength and means that the surface is the highest non-slip grade.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-21252\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/sawn-and-Honed.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Flamed\u00a0<\/strong>finishes are created when an intense flame is fired at the stone.This causes the surface to burst and become rough.\n<p>Flamed bluestone pavers have more grey tones with shades of olive throughout.<\/p>\n<p>They are what we call a warm earthy tone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-21251\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/flamed.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong> Bush Hammered <\/strong>finishes are a higher grade version of sandblasting.This finish is created by hitting the stone at high speeds with nails which creates a broken look.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-21404\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/BUSHHAMMERED.jpg\" alt=\"Bush Hammered BLUESTONE\" title=\"\"><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3>3. Are there any disadvantages with Bluestone?<\/h3>\n<p>As it is a volcanic rock with dark pigments.<\/p>\n<p>Bluestone can get quite hot when exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.<\/p>\n<p>As such, it can become quite unbearable underfoot.<\/p>\n<p>Due to this, we strongly encourage you to think carefully and consciously about where you want to install these on your property.<\/p>\n<p>For example, if you are getting a lot of westerly sun during the day.<\/p>\n<p>You would want to install a calcite paver (like <a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/stone-pavers\/limestone-pavers\/\">limestone<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/stone-pavers\/marble-pavers\/\">marble<\/a>) because they reflect heat.<\/p>\n<p>Alternatively you could also use\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/porcelain-pavers\/\">structural porcelain stone-look pavers<\/a>\u00a0as they absorb 35% less heat than natural stones.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-21209\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/Nulla-5-1.jpg\" alt=\"bluestone pavers\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<h3>4 What do I Watch Out for with Bluestone?<\/h3>\n<p>One thing you must be cautious with bluestone is called \u2018Curling\u2019 (also known as cupping).<\/p>\n<p>This is an unfortunate process that can affect poor quality bluestones.<\/p>\n<p>What is this?<\/p>\n<p>Basically it\u2019s when the outer edges of the paver lift before the mortar or <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" title=\"adhesive\" href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/fixing-products\/adhesives-and-additives\/\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">adhesive<\/a> have fully set.<\/p>\n<p>This creates a drummy\/hollow effect.<\/p>\n<p>The main cause of curling depends on the stone\u2019s density, paver thickness and moisture.<\/p>\n<p>Stone density is a major factor in curling.<\/p>\n<p>As density is built over a prolonged period of time.<\/p>\n<p>If the bluestone has been quarried close to the earth\u2019s surface it will naturally be less dense.<\/p>\n<p>If the stone is quarried from deeper within the earth.<\/p>\n<p>It has more layers and has sustained more pressure from the earth\u2019s gravity over time.<\/p>\n<p>This makes it stronger and vastly reduces its chances of curling.<\/p>\n<p>Basically, the thicker the paver, the more structural strength it holds.<\/p>\n<p>We recommend our customers to use bluestone pavers that are no less than 30mm thick.<\/p>\n<p>In the case that you have a concrete slab, you may want to use a thinner bluestone paver.<\/p>\n<p>Here we encourage you to choose a trusted supplier and make sure that you use a moisture-sensitive <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" title=\"glue\" href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/fixing-products\/\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">glue<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The speed at which water is absorbed from your mortar really depends on the porosity of the stone.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/contact-us\/\">To find out the best ways to install your bluestone pavers, feel free to contact us.<\/a><\/p>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-14930\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/Nulla-3.jpg\" alt=\"Nulla Bluestone Pavers\" title=\"\"><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3>5. Do the Bluestone Pavers require to be Sealed before laying or grouting?<\/h3>\n<p>The short answer is: yes!<\/p>\n<p>You see, whilst bluestone pavers are very dense.<\/p>\n<p>They do have many small pinholes throughout them.<\/p>\n<p>Because of this, pre-sealing them prior to grouting will make the grouting process much easier.<\/p>\n<p>When it comes to grouting, we recommend that you <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" title=\"grout\" href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/fixing-products\/grouts-and-grout-boosters\/\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">grout<\/a> the entire paver and not just the joints.<\/p>\n<p>This will protect the stone from getting what\u2019s called \u2018picture framing\u2019.<\/p>\n<p>If you only grout the joints.<\/p>\n<p>The bluestone\u2019s natural pinholes will be filled with the coloured grout but the middle section will be unfilled.<\/p>\n<p>When this happens, the middle part will have a different colour to the edges.<\/p>\n<p>You want to avoid this.<\/p>\n<p>To help clean any excess grout off the stone post-installation.<\/p>\n<p>We suggest using a coat of pre-sealer on the face of the stone.<\/p>\n<p>If bluestone pavers are less than 20mm thick.<\/p>\n<p>You want to use a moisture-sensitive glue like the <a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/fixing-products\/adhesives-and-additives\/mapei-granirapid-kit\/\">Mapei \u2013 Granirapid Kit<\/a>, to adhere them prior to <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" title=\"sealing\" href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/sealers-and-cleaners\/sealers\/\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">sealing<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Then you must deep seal your tiles with the <a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/sealers-and-cleaners\/sealers\/aqua-mix-problock-pre-sealer\/\">Aqua Mix Pro-Block<\/a>\u00a0adhesive bond breaker sealant.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"200\" class=\"size-full wp-image-15253 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/Pro-Block.jpg\" alt=\"Aqua Mix - Pro Block\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<p>In effect, the pre-sealer will penetrate the stone and prevent any moisture seeping into the stone from the earth or glue.<\/p>\n<p>It also helps manage the migration of efflorescence.<\/p>\n<p>Which is basically when salt from porous material surfaces to the top layer and causes a white coat over the stone.<\/p>\n<p>It is imperative to remove grout haze within 3-10 days of installation.<\/p>\n<p>It takes approximately 3 days for the grout to harden.<\/p>\n<p>Do not leave this for more than 10 days as it may become too tough to remove.<\/p>\n<p>And will require mechanical removal, an additional cost that can be avoided.<\/p>\n<p>Lastly you want to add a top sealer to your bluestone pavers.<\/p>\n<p>The one we recommend is called\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/sealers-and-cleaners\/sealers\/aqua-mix-sealers-choice-gold\/\">Aqua Mix \u2013 Sealers Choice Gold<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"200\" class=\"size-full wp-image-15228 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/Sealers-choice-Gold-1.jpg\" alt=\"Aqua Mix - Sealers Choice Gold\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>6. How do I Clean my Bluestone Pavers?<\/h3>\n<p>If the surface of your bluestone pavers has been left unattended over a period of time with dirt and debris built up.<\/p>\n<p>We suggest using <a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/sealers-and-cleaners\/cleaners\/aqua-mix-stone-deep-clean\/\">Aqua Mix Stone Deep clean<\/a>\u00a0or <a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/products\/sealers-and-cleaners\/cleaners\/aqua-mix-heavy-duty-tille-grout-cleaner\/\">Aqua Mix Heavy Duty Tile and Grout Cleaner<\/a> to clean the debris.<\/p>\n<p>If these products don\u2019t work, feel free to call us for advice on an alternative method.<\/p>\n<p>We can be reached at 1300 560 560.<\/p>\n<p>If you would like to learn more about how to seal bluestone and clean bluestone and basalt pavers, <a href=\"https:\/\/aquamix.com.au\/surfacetype\/sealing-bluestone-basalt\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-21759\" src=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-content\/uploads\/nulla-Bluestone-pavers2.jpg\" alt=\"Bluestone pavers Armstone\" title=\"\"><\/h2>\n<h3>Conclusion<\/h3>\n<p>As bluestone is a form of basalt.<\/p>\n<p>It is a superb choice for most outdoor entertainment areas.<\/p>\n<p>With mixes of earthy blues and grey charcoals.<\/p>\n<p>Bluestone oozes with contemporary elegance and has a sophistication that\u2019s hard to match.<\/p>\n<p>In saying this, this natural stone paver definitely requires the correct pre-installation.<\/p>\n<p>And installation process to ensure a premium finish and longevity of the product.<\/p>\n<p>Sturdy and well-balanced, bluestone pavers can be used to dress a wide range of outdoor areas.<\/p>\n<p>With its non-slip surface, many variations of finishes, thicknesses and formats.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s never been easier to create your unique desired landscape.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019d like to find out more,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/contact-us\/\">contact us<\/a>\u00a0today.<\/p>\n<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What are Bluestone pavers made of?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"\u201cBluestone\u201d is a cultural name for a Basalt which is an igneous rock formed from the rapid cooling of lava.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Where Bluestone pavers are suitable to use?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"An appropriate paver to use for your courtyard, patio or even poolside. 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This is an&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":21758,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[56],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-21207","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21207","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21207"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21207\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38475,"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21207\/revisions\/38475"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21758"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21207"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21207"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/visionaryclients.com\/armstone\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21207"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}