When it comes to landscaping, few materials offer the timeless appeal and natural beauty of sandstone blocks. Whether you’re constructing a retaining wall, creating a garden feature, or adding a decorative element to your outdoor space, sandstone blocks provide a versatile and durable solution. However, with a wide range of sandstone types, grades, and sizes available, it can be challenging to know which option is best suited for your project.

In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to consider when choosing the best sandstone blocks for your landscaping project, including the different types of sandstone, the importance of block grades, how to determine the right size, and where to buy quality sandstone blocks. Let’s dive in.

Understanding Sandstone Blocks

Before selecting the right sandstone blocks, it’s important to understand what sandstone is and why it’s so popular for landscaping. Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of sand-sized minerals and rock grains cemented together by natural compounds like silica and calcium carbonate. Its formation over millions of years results in a stunning natural stone with unique textures and a range of earthy tones, such as creams, pinks, browns, and reds.

Sandstone blocks are cut from larger sandstone formations and are widely used for retaining walls, garden beds, paving, feature walls, and various other landscaping applications. Their natural look, strength, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions make them an excellent choice for outdoor use.

Types of Sandstone Blocks

When selecting sandstone blocks for your landscaping project, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is the type of sandstone to use. Different types of sandstone offer distinct characteristics in terms of appearance, durability, and cost. Here are the most common types of sandstone blocks available:

1. A-Grade Sandstone Blocks

A-Grade sandstone blocks are the premium option. These blocks are carefully cut to provide smooth, flat surfaces with minimal imperfections. They are ideal for projects that require a polished, clean appearance, such as formal retaining walls, feature walls, or architectural designs where aesthetics are key. A-Grade blocks are consistent in color and texture, making them suitable for high-end landscaping.

While A-Grade sandstone blocks are often more expensive, their superior quality and long-lasting appeal make them a great investment for projects that demand a refined look.

2. B-Grade Sandstone Blocks

B-Grade sandstone blocks are a more affordable option and are characterized by their rougher texture and more natural imperfections. These blocks may have uneven surfaces or slight color variations, giving them a rustic, organic appearance. B-Grade sandstone blocks are perfect for projects where a more natural, rugged aesthetic is desired, such as garden walls, informal retaining walls, or landscape edging.

Although B-Grade blocks are not as refined as A-Grade, they still provide the durability and strength needed for most landscaping applications, making them a popular choice for cost-conscious homeowners.

3. Random Sandstone Blocks

Random sandstone blocks, also known as irregular blocks, come in varying shapes and sizes. These blocks are often used in more creative or artistic landscaping designs, where the irregularity of the stone adds a unique, natural look to the project. Random sandstone blocks are frequently used in rockeries, garden features, or decorative elements that mimic natural stone formations.

Because these blocks are not cut to specific dimensions, they are typically more affordable and are a good option for projects where precision is not essential.

4. Cut Sandstone Blocks

Cut sandstone blocks are precision-cut to specific dimensions, making them ideal for projects that require uniformity, such as paving, formal garden walls, or feature walls. The clean lines and even surfaces of cut blocks provide a modern, polished look that works well in both residential and commercial landscaping projects.

Cut sandstone blocks are available in a range of sizes and finishes, allowing for flexibility in design and customization.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Project

The size of the sandstone blocks you choose will have a significant impact on the overall look and functionality of your landscaping project. Here’s a breakdown of common sandstone block sizes and their uses:

1. Small Sandstone Blocks

Small sandstone blocks (typically around 300mm x 300mm) are perfect for decorative elements in landscaping, such as garden edging, small retaining walls, or raised garden beds. These blocks are easy to handle and can be arranged in creative patterns to add character to your outdoor space. Their size makes them ideal for smaller-scale DIY projects.

2. Medium Sandstone Blocks

Medium-sized blocks (400mm to 600mm) offer more structural integrity than smaller blocks, making them suitable for medium-height retaining walls, steps, or garden beds. They are a versatile option that can be used for both functional and decorative purposes.

3. Large Sandstone Blocks

Large sandstone blocks (600mm and above) are the best choice for large retaining walls, heavy-duty construction, or projects that require significant structural support. Due to their size and weight, large sandstone blocks are typically used in commercial or large-scale residential projects, where strength and durability are critical. These blocks create a bold and impressive statement in any outdoor space.

Grading: What to Look for

When selecting sandstone blocks, it’s important to consider the grade of the stone, which reflects its quality and finish. Sandstone blocks are typically categorized as A-Grade, B-Grade, or random. Here’s what each grade means:

  • A-Grade: High-quality blocks with smooth surfaces, minimal imperfections, and consistent color. Ideal for projects where appearance is crucial.
  • B-Grade: Rougher, more natural-looking blocks with some imperfections. Great for rustic or informal landscaping projects.
  • Random: Irregular blocks with varying shapes and sizes. Suitable for creative and decorative applications.

Where to Buy Sandstone Blocks

Finding the right supplier is key to ensuring you get high-quality sandstone blocks at a fair price. There are several places to buy sandstone blocks in Australia:

1. Local Stone Quarries

Local stone quarries are often the best option for purchasing sandstone blocks. Quarries offer a wide range of sizes, types, and finishes, and buying directly from the source can help reduce costs. Additionally, local quarries often provide delivery services to your site.

2. Specialized Stone Suppliers

There are several specialized suppliers in Australia that focus on natural stone products, including sandstone. Suppliers such as Gosford Quarries or Sydney Sandstone stock a variety of sandstone blocks in different grades and sizes. These suppliers often have showrooms where you can view the stone in person before making a purchase.

3. Bunnings Warehouse

For smaller DIY projects, Bunnings Warehouse is a convenient option. While the selection of sandstone blocks may be more limited than at specialized suppliers, Bunnings offers affordable prices and easy access to materials for garden features, retaining walls, and other small landscaping projects.

Sandstone Block Pricing

The cost of sandstone blocks varies depending on the type, grade, and size of the block, as well as the supplier. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

  • Small Sandstone Blocks: $50 – $100 per block
  • Medium Sandstone Blocks: $100 – $200 per block
  • Large Sandstone Blocks: $200 – $400 per block
  • A-Grade Sandstone Blocks: $150 – $300 per block, depending on size and finish
  • B-Grade Sandstone Blocks: $100 – $200 per block

Be sure to account for delivery fees when budgeting for your project, especially if you’re purchasing large or bulk quantities of sandstone blocks.

Conclusion

Choosing the right sandstone blocks for your landscaping project involves considering the type, size, grade, and supplier. Whether you’re looking for polished A-Grade sandstone blocks for a formal retaining wall, or rustic B-Grade or random sandstone blocks for a more natural look, sandstone offers the durability and beauty needed to enhance your outdoor space. By selecting the right size and grade, and working with a reputable supplier, you can create a stunning landscape that stands the test of time.