What is Raj Green Sandstone?

Raj Green is a natural Indian sandstone known for its green-olive tones with subtle veining and variance between slabs. It’s quarried and then calibrated and hand-cut to produce consistent thickness and a riven surface finish.

Surface & edge details

• Surface finish: Natural riven (textured) — good slip resistance when dry.
• Edge finish: Hand cut — gives a traditional, robust look.
• Thickness: 22 mm calibrated slabs — consistent thickness simplifies laying and jointing.

Available sizes & packs (Patio Paving range)

Choose the pack that fits the scale and pattern of your patio or landscaping area.

Raj Green 560 Patio Pack

• Contents: Mixed-size pack with 560×560, 560×280, and 280×280 mm slabs.
• Thickness: Calibrated to 22 mm.
• Best for: Medium patios with a modular but varied look.

Raj Green 600 Patio Pack

• Contents: Mixed-size pack (22 mm) comprising 600×900, 600×600, 600×290, and 290×290 mm slabs.
• Best for: Larger patios with more pattern options and fewer joints.

Raj Green 600 × 600 mm Slabs

• Type: Single-size, 22 mm calibrated slabs.
• Best for: Large, uniform patio areas where repeatable lines/flow are important.

Raj Green 900 × 600 mm Slabs

• Type: 22 mm single-size, calibrated.
• Best for: Fast coverage of large areas using fewer pieces for a contemporary look.

Does Raj Green sandstone require special maintenance?

Short answer: No — but a little care extends its life and improves its appearance.

Routine maintenance (simple, effective)

• Sweep regularly to remove grit and debris.
• Treat spills quickly — oil and food can stain if left.
• Remove algae/moss with a stiff brush and suitable biological cleaner (avoid harsh acids).
• Avoid harsh wire brushing that can damage the riven face.

Periodic maintenance (every 1–5 years depending on use & exposure)

• Re-seal if you choose to use a sealer (see sealing section).
• Check joints and replace or repoint if washed out.
• Pressure wash with care (see below).

Is Raj Green stone durable?

Yes — when correctly installed and maintained.

Durability factors

• Material: Natural sandstone is hard-wearing for patios and many landscape uses.
• Thickness: 22 mm calibrated slabs are industry-standard for patios and light-use areas.
• Installation: A proper sub-base, correct bedding, adequate edge restraints, and correct jointing are critical to long-term performance.

Where it’s not ideal

• Sandstone is not as hard as granite. For heavy vehicle use (driveways with frequent heavy loads) you must assess slab thickness, laying method and traffic loading. Consult with Patio Paving for driveway suitability.

Can Raj Green sandstone be sealed?

Yes — and many clients choose to seal, but it’s optional.

Why seal?

• Protection against stains (oil, grease, food).
• Enhances colour (wet look or subtle deepening).
• Easier cleaning — surface dirt wipes off more easily.

What type of sealer to I use?

• Breathable, penetrating sealers are recommended for natural stone so moisture can still escape.
• Avoid thick film-forming sealers that can trap moisture and can flake over time. (If in doubt, test a small area first.)

How often to seal?

• Typical guidance: every 1–3 years, depending on sealer type, foot traffic, and exposure. High-use or exposed patios may need more frequent attention.

Can you pressure wash (jet wash) Raj Green sandstone?

Yes — but follow these rules to avoid damage.

Safe pressure-washing practices

• Use low to medium pressure settings — high pressure can damage the riven surface and wash out joints.
• Keep the lance at an angle and keep a safe distance from the stone (start further back, move closer only if needed).
• Avoid pinpointing one spot for long periods.
• If the jointing material is weak or missing, pressure washing may worsen the problem — repair joints first.

Alternatives to high-pressure cleaning

• Stiff brush + soapy water for general cleaning.
• Biological algae/moss cleaners for green staining (follow manufacturer instructions).

Benefits of Raj Green sandstone

• Aesthetic versatility: natural, warm green tones suit formal and informal styles.
• Textured, slip-resistant surface when dry.
• Calibrated thickness (22 mm): simplifies installation and provides uniform joints.
• Range of sizes: flexible design possibilities — mixed packs or single large slabs.

Disadvantages & limitations (be honest)

• Porosity: sandstone is porous and can stain without sealing or prompt cleaning.
• Not the hardest stone: it is less scratch/impact resistant than very hard stones (e.g., granite).
• Colour variation: natural variability is beautiful but may not suit projects that need exact colour matching.
• Algae growth: in shady, damp climates, green algae/moss can develop if not managed.

Installation best practice (for landscapers & careful DIY)

Sub-base & drainage

• Compact a well-draining sub-base (e.g., Type 1 MOT or a similar compacted aggregate) to avoid frost heave and settlement.
• Ensure positive falls to drains — water should not pool on the surface.

Bedding & laying

• Bedding layer: use a suitable mortar or bedding sand suited to UK climate and the stone.
• Edge restraints: use solid edge restraints to prevent lateral movement.
• Jointing: use a suitable sand or mortar; polymeric jointing sands offer weed suppression but check compatibility with sandstone.

Final checks

• Allow for expansion around fixed structures.
• Clean as you go to prevent grout or mortar stains setting on the stone.

Is Raj Green suitable for driveways?

Driveway suitability depends on thickness and laying method

• 22 mm slabs are common for patios and light pedestrian traffic. For driveways, especially where cars are parked or driven frequently, consult Patio Paving for advice — larger, thicker slabs or different bedding methods may be required. Installation must account for concentrated wheel loads.

How to stop sandstone going green (algae & moss)

Prevention & treatment

• Improve sunlight & airflow where possible — prune overhanging vegetation.
• Regular cleaning and sweeping to remove organic matter.
• Use biological cleaners designed for outdoor stone — follow product instructions.
• Avoid nutrient run-off from nearby compost or soil that encourages growth.

What if you don’t seal Indian sandstone?

• Higher risk of staining from oil, food or rust.
• Softer older dirt may set and be harder to remove.
• However, many people prefer the natural weathered look and choose not to seal — it’s a valid aesthetic choice. If you skip sealing, commit to a cleaning schedule.

Cost considerations (what affects price)

• Stone type & pack (mixed pack vs single large slab).
• Delivery & handling (large slabs need care).
• Installation complexity (patterns, steps, borders).
• Preparation works (sub-base, drainage).
• Sealer and ongoing maintenance costs.

(Exact prices vary — request a tailored quote from Patio Paving for an accurate, site-specific cost.)

Quick decision guide: which Raj Green product pack for your project?

• Small/medium garden patio with pattern: Raj Green 560 Patio Pack.
• Larger patio with mixed pattern options: Raj Green 600 Patio Pack.
• Large, uniform areas: 600×600 mm slabs or 900×600 mm slabs for fewer joints and quicker laying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These are short, practical answers to common questions from landscapers & homeowners.

What is the difference between Raj Blend and Raj Green?

Raj Green refers to a green-toned Indian sandstone. Raj Blend typically contains mixed tones/sizes from similar quarries—check supplier descriptions. If colour consistency matters, ask for samples.

Is Raj Green high maintenance?

Not if installed correctly. Regular sweeping and occasional cleaning plus optional sealing will keep it looking good for years.

How often do you need to seal Raj Green sandstone?

Typically every 1–3 years, depending on the type of sealer, exposure and foot traffic.

Is it okay to pressure wash Indian sandstone?

Yes — but use low to medium pressure and avoid washing out joints. If joints are weak, repair them first.

What is the best low-maintenance paving?

Natural stones with low porosity and a denser matrix (e.g., some granites) tend to be lower maintenance. Among sandstones, sealing and good drainage reduce maintenance needs.

How do you maintain sandstone?

Sweep regularly, treat spills quickly, clean algae with appropriate products, and reseal if you’ve chosen to seal.

Can you use Thompson water seal on sandstone?

Thompson’s is a brand of sealer. If you use any sealer, choose a breathable, penetrating sealer formulated for natural stone and test a small area first.

Practical checklist before you buy

• Request physical samples to see colour variation in your light.
• Confirm slab calibration & thickness (22 mm in our range).
• Decide whether you want sealed or unsealed finish.
• Plan sub-base and drainage with your landscaper.
• Ask about lead times and deliveries for large slabs.

Why choose Patio Paving?

• UK-based supplier specialising in patio stone — we understand local climate and installation needs.
• Range of Raj Green packs and calibrated slabs to suit projects of different scales.
• We advise landscapers and homeowners on suitability, installation best-practice and maintenance.

Want samples or a quote?

Visit Patio Paving for free sample slabs, technical datasheets, or a site-specific quote. We can help you pick the right pack and advise on installation and maintenance for long-lasting, beautiful results.

Final thoughts

Raj Green sandstone delivers beautiful, natural character and flexible design options for patios and landscaped areas. With correct installation, sensible maintenance and (if desired) a breathable sealer, it’s a reliable choice for UK gardens. If you’re a landscaper or homeowner planning a patio, start with samples, plan drainage and jointing carefully, and reach out to Patio Paving for tailored advice. Shop Raj Green Indian Sandstone Paving.