SANDSTONE

A clastic sedimentary rock comprising an aggregate of sand-sized (0.06-2.0-mm) fragments of minerals, rocks, or fossils held together by a mineral cement. Sandstone forms when sand is buried under successive layers of sediment. During burial the sand is compacted, and a binding agent such as quartz, calcite, or iron oxide is precipitated from ground water which moves through passageways between grains. Sandstones grade upward in grain size into conglomerates and breccias; they grade downward in size into siltstones and shales. When the proportion of fossil fragments or carbonate grains is greater than 50%, sandstones grade into clastic limestones.

The basic components of a sandstone are framework grains (sand particles), which supply the rock's strength; matrix or mud-sized particles, which fill some of the space between grains; and crystalline cement. The composition of the framework grains reveals much about the history of the derivation of the sand grains, including the parent rock type and weathering history of the parent rock. Textural attributes of sandstone are the same as those for sand, and they have the same genetic significance

Sandstone which is easily split (flagstone) and has an attractive color is used as a building stone. Sandstone is also an important source of sand for the glass industry and the construction industry, where it is used as a filler in cement and plaster. Crushed sandstone is used as road fill and railroad ballast. Silica-cemented sandstone is used as firebrick in industrial furnaces. Some of the most extensive deposits of uranium are found in sandstones deposited in ancient stream channels

Highly acclaimed for its natural beauty, sandstone is suitable for interior or exterior use, both residentially and commercially. It is found useful as a building stone. The architectural properties of sandstone has made it suitable medium to clad walls and floors and churn out an enamoring range of handcrafted artifacts such as garden ornaments, sculptures and other decorative items.

Used for flooring, showers, and vertical surfaces. Available in various sizes. Sandstone is highly porous material, which limits some of its inferior surface applications, such as countertops.

Applications

Finishes

Available Products

 

Marble & Granite Supply of Illinois, INC
6666 W. Howard Street
Niles, IL 60714

Telephone: 847-972-1161

Fax: 847-972-1530
Email Address: sales@marble-granites.com
Website: www.Marble-Granites.com