Sandstone
Any sedimentary rock composed of stony grains between 1/16 mm and 2 mm in diameter that are cemented together is a sandstone.
Sandstone forms from beds of sand laid down under the sea or in low-lying areas on the continents. As a bed of sand subsides into the earth's crust , usually pressed down by over-lying sediments, it is heated and compressed. Hot water flows slowly through the spaces between the sand grains, importing dissolved minerals such as quartz , calcium carbonate, and iron oxide. These minerals crystallize around the sand grains and cement them together into a sandstone. Spaces remain between the grains, resulting in a porous, spongelike matrix through which liquids can flow.
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock formed under the oceans, lakes and rivers. Composed of sand mineral particles (such as quartz or feldspar), this natural stone is very tough and resistant to weathering. It is a popular building and paving material from ancient times.
This natural stone usually forms where sand is laid down and buried. For instance, The famous red rocks of the Grand Canyon were formed in a desert setting. The sand grains in sandstone give information about the past such as the kind of countryside that produced the sand or how far they were transported.
A Building Stone Perfect for Outdoors:
Depending on the mix of rock fragments, sandstone may have a wide range of colors from nearly white to nearly black, gray, brown or red. As a landscaping and building stone, sandstone is full of character.
The varying composition of sandstones gives rise to the different hues that the material can exhibit once it has been adapted to different formats for use in buildings. Limestone and sandstone are highly valued stones by architects for a wide variety of projects, from fully-cladded facades to external flooring.
It has also been used for artistic purposes to create ornamental fountains and statues. Some sandstones are resistant to weathering, yet are easy to work. This makes sandstone a common building and paving material including in asphalt concrete.
This type of natural stones are also used for cladding facades and interior walls. You can find garden benches, patio tables or swimming pool edges.
Some Examples of Architecture with Sandstone:
Sandstone is recognised fo its natural strength, durability and slip-resistant properties. This stone withstands the harshest climates, increasing in value and aesthetic appeal over time. One of the best examples of architecture usind sandstone is Petra. In fact, the sandstone layers in Petra were the leading factor of the location and the architectural details.
The White House of the United States is one of the most popular buildings using sandstone for its facade. Designed by the Irish architect James Hoban, the Presidential house is clad in pale gray sandstone.