Forest Of Dean Sandstone
United Kingdom
(Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire)
Quarry Location: Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
Stone Type: Fine-grained, hard siliceous sandstone
Visual & Aesthetic Description
Forest of Dean Sandstone is known for its:
- Color: Greenish-gray base with subtle earthy tones and occasional brown or olive flecks depending on mineral content
- Texture: Fine-grained and compact, with a smooth to slightly gritty tactile surface
- Pattern: Uniform, with occasional lamination or sedimentary layering, offering a subtle and natural rustic charm This sandstone is prized for its timeless British heritage look, often associated with historical architecture and prestigious civic buildings.
Physical & Mechanical Properties
- Water Absorption ... 2.55% (by weight)
- Bulk Density ... 2,416 kg/m³
- Flexural Strength ... 11.9 MPa
- Compressive Strength ... 110 MPa
- Abrasion Resistance ... Moderate to High
- Weather Resistance ... Excellent for external use
- Frost Resistance ... Very good (used in UK climate)
- Porosity ... Medium
- Hardness (Mohs) ... 6.0 – 6.5
Chemical Composition (% by weight) (Typical for UK greenish-grey siliceous sandstones)
- SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) ... 85 – 95%
- Al2O3 (Aluminum Oxide) ... 3 – 7%
- Fe2O3 (Iron Oxide) ... 0.5 – 2%
- CaCO3 (Calcium Carbonate) ... <1%
- MgO (Magnesium Oxide) ... <1%
- K2O, Na2O (Alkalis) ... <1% combined
Mineralogical Composition (% by weight)
- Quartz ... 80 – 90%
- Feldspar ... 5 – 8%
- Mica (Muscovite/Biotite) ... <5%
- Clay Minerals ... <3%
- Iron Oxides ... Trace to 2%
Surface Finish Options
Due to its hard, fine-grain structure, Forest of Dean Sandstone supports a variety of finishes:
- Natural Cleft / Riven: Traditional rustic texture ideal for paving
- Honed: Smooth, matte surface ideal for interiors
- Bush-hammered: Slip-resistant for walkways and pool surrounds
- Sandblasted: Light texture for decorative use
- Sawn: Clean and modern edges for architectural detailing
- Polished: Less common due to sandstone’s porosity, but possible on denser pieces
Cutting Sizes
- Standard Tile Sizes:
- 30 x 30 (12" x 12")
- 30 x 60 (12" x 24")
- 60 x 60 (24" x 24")
- 40 x 80 (16" x 32")
- Custom cuts ... Available on request
- Thickness Options: 2 cm, 3 cm, or more for architectural elements
- Block Size Availability: Ideal for dimensional blocks, monuments, cladding, and coping stones
Applications
Highly durable and weather-resistant, Forest of Dean Sandstone is ideal for:
- Exterior cladding and architectural facades
- Paving stones and flagstones
- Walling stone and landscaping
- Steps, copings, and sills
- Restoration of heritage buildings
- Interior flooring and accent walls
Maintenance
- Sealing ... Recommended for interiors or wet areas to resist staining
- Cleaning ... Use pH-neutral cleaners; avoid acids
- Durability ... Naturally resistant to frost, UV, and salt
- Re-polishing ... Not applicable; generally honed or natural surface used
- Wear Resistance ... High – suitable for high traffic zones
The request includes: 1. surface finished, size 2. quantity required
Deb***Wrote:
Hello, I have Forest of Dean Sandstone in my front garden. Those slabs that are exposed to the elements, I.e., the steps are fine. But two large slabs that form an exterior seat and are largely protected are showing signs of wear. How do I protect these. The stone has been down for about 13 years. I believe I bought it direct from you.
