Haddington Island stone is a high-density volcanic rock, primarily classified as andesite, found on Haddington Island in British Columbia, Canada. This stone is renowned for its aesthetic appeal and unique color variations ranging from cloudy silver-grey to beige-bluff with a fine-grained to aphanitic texture. The color palette also includes light blue-grey to warm brown-grey hues, making it a favored choice for various applications.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

• Water Absorption: 4.26%
• Density: 2522 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength: Specific values may vary; typically high given its fine-grained nature.
• Compressive Strength: Generally robust, aligning with typical values for dense volcanic rocks.
• Hardness: Known for its durability and resistance to wear.
• Porosity: Low to moderate, contributing to its strength and minimal water absorption.
• Slip Resistance: Offers good slip resistance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Chemical and Mineral Compositions

• Silica (SiO2): Predominant component, typical of andesite.
• Alumina (Al2O3): Contributes to its durability.
• Iron Oxides (FeO, Fe2O3): Impart color variations and tones.
• Calcium Oxide (CaO): Small quantities may be present, adding to its hardness.
• Magnesium Oxide (MgO): Contributes to overall toughness.

Usage

• Architectural Uses: Suitable for cladding, facades, flooring, and paving due to its aesthetic qualities and durability.
• Monuments and Sculptures: Favored for artistic works due to its fine texture and unique color palette.
• Landscaping: Used in garden pathways, retaining walls, and outdoor features.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regular maintenance includes routine washing with water and mild detergent.
• Sealing: Periodic sealing might be required to prevent staining and enhance longevity, especially for outdoor installations.

Cutting Sizes and Finishes

• Available Sizes: Customizable according to project needs, commonly available in slabs and tiles.
• Common Surface Finishes:
• Polished: Highlights the stone's color and texture, providing a smooth finish.
• Honed: Offers a satin-like appearance with less reflection, suitable for non-slip surfaces.
• Bush-Hammered: Creates a textured surface ideal for outdoor and high-traffic areas.
• Sandblasted: Provides a roughened surface that enhances slip resistance.

Haddington Island Stone is not only appreciated for its natural beauty but also for its strength and versatility, making it a sought-after material in both contemporary design and traditional applications.

Summary:

Haddington Island Stone is a warm grey-beige to bluff-colored, high-density volcanic rock. The stone has a very fine-grained to aphanitic texture and exhibits a color range from light blue-grey to warm brown-grey. Haddington Island Stone is easily profiled and carved.

Quarry History: Opened 1896–1966, reopened in 2004.

Usage: Flagstone, coping, pavers, slabs, ledgestone

Finishes: Split-face / machine finish, ashlar, blocks

Chemical Composition:

• Silica: 70.5%
• Alumina and ferric oxide: 18.7%
• Lime: 2.7%
• Magnesia: Trace

Physical Properties:

Weight per cubic foot: 143.41 lbs

Crushing strength (lbs per sq. in.):

• Dry: 18,428
• Wet: 13,847
• Wet after freezing: 11,415

Resistance to degradation of large-size coarse aggregate by abrasion & impact (ASTM C 535):

• Loss after 500 revolutions: 21.6%
• Loss after 1000 revolutions: 32.6%