Indian Sandstone Patios in Swanscombe, Kent

One of the best things about Indian Sandstone is the sheer variety. Most of our neighbours here in Kent tend to go for Kandla Grey if they want something sleek and modern that hides the odd muddy footprint. If you're after a more traditional feel—maybe something that looks like it's been there for decades—Raj Green is a brilliant choice because it looks remarkably similar to old Yorkstone. We also see a lot of interest in Autumn Blend, which brings in those warm browns and greys that look stunning when the sun finally hits them. Are you looking for something lighter? Mint or Fossil stone often features these incredible natural imprints that look almost like ferns, making every single slab a bit of a talking point.

We've all seen those patios where the corners start sticking up after a single winter, or stones begin to wobble as soon as you step on them. That usually happens because someone took a shortcut with the base. When we're working in the DA postcode, we know the ground can be tricky, often with heavy clay that holds water. That's why we never just 'dot and dab' our stones. We lay every slab on a full mortar bed over a compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base. It's more work for us, sure, but it means your patio won't sink or rock, and you won't find weeds poking through the joints after a few months. It's about doing the job once and doing it right.

Let’s be honest, the weather around Dartford and Swanscombe isn't always tropical. Between the frost in January and the 'eternal drizzle' we often get, your patio needs to be tough. Indian Sandstone is naturally frost-resistant, meaning it won't flake or crack when the temperature drops. Worried about it being slippery when wet? Most of the stone we install has a riven surface—that's the natural, slightly bumpy texture—which provides much better grip underfoot than smooth concrete. We also make sure the drainage is spot on, using ACO drains or soakaways where needed, so you aren't left with a mini-pond outside your back door every time it rains.

A common question we get is, 'Will I spend my whole weekend scrubbing it?' The short answer is no. Because we use high-quality polymeric pointing compounds that set hard, you won't be out there every spring digging moss out of the gaps. A quick blast with a hose or a simple wash with some soapy water is usually all it takes to keep it looking fresh. If you want that extra bit of protection, we can apply a professional-grade sealer that helps prevent oil or food stains from soaking in—perfect if you're planning on hosting a few BBQs this summer. It’s a hard-wearing choice that actually gets better with age as the colours settle in.