Tumbled Stone Cobbles and Setts

Block paving stones are individual paving units laid together to form a hard-wearing surface for driveways, paths, courtyards and other outdoor areas. In natural stone paving, they normally include granite setts, sandstone cobbles, limestone cobbles and other small-format stone paving. They are available in different sizes, colours and finishes, so the finished paving can look traditional, rustic or much cleaner and more modern.

The main difference from ordinary concrete block paving is the material itself. Natural stone has real variation in colour and texture, and it normally keeps its character for much longer rather than simply looking like a manufactured paving block.

The most common natural stones used for block paving are granite, sandstone and limestone. Basalt is also used where a darker and very hard-wearing stone is wanted. Granite setts are particularly popular for driveways because granite is dense and very durable. Sandstone cobbles give a softer and more traditional appearance, while limestone can provide cleaner grey, black or warmer aged colours depending on the stone and finish. There is no single best material for every project. For a heavily used driveway, strength is important. For a garden path, courtyard or patio border, colour, texture and the overall character of the paving may matter just as much.

Yes. Natural stone setts and cobbles are very suitable for driveways when the stone thickness is matched to the expected vehicle load. For a normal domestic driveway used by cars and other light vehicles, natural stone block paving around 50 mm thick is generally a suitable choice. For heavier vehicle use or more demanding applications, thicker blocks in the region of 80–100 mm are normally more appropriate.

Granite setts are particularly suitable where high strength and long-term durability are required, while sandstone and limestone cobbles can also perform well in residential driveways when correctly specified. The paving itself is only part of the construction. A well-compacted sub-base, suitable bedding layer and secure edge restraints are equally important. Even very strong natural stone will not compensate for a poorly constructed base.

Common natural stone block paving sizes include 100 x 100 mm and 200 x 100 mm formats, usually in thicknesses suitable for their intended use. Smaller square setts create more joints and can produce a traditional cobbled appearance. Longer rectangular setts give a stronger laying direction and are often used for driveways, paths and borders. Natural stone is also available in less regular hand-cut formats, so the exact dimensions can vary slightly. That variation is part of the appearance of traditional stone paving rather than a manufacturing defect.

Block paving stones are not only for driveways. They work very well for garden paths, small walkways, courtyards, entrances and decorative areas around a property. They are also widely used as edging around patios and larger paving areas. A contrasting granite or sandstone sett can create a strong border between the main paving and a lawn, planting area or another paving material. Because the units are small, they are also useful for curves, corners and detailed landscaping where large paving slabs would be more difficult to use.

Natural stone block paving is hand-cut, machine-cut or split from real stone, while concrete block paving is manufactured from cement and aggregates. One of the main disadvantages of concrete block paving is colour fading over time. Natural stone does not rely on a manufactured surface colour, and after years of weathering it can often be cleaned and brought back close to its original appearance. For homeowners looking for a higher-quality and more natural finish, granite, sandstone and limestone block paving are usually the better long-term choice.

Natural stone setts and cobbles can be laid in straight courses, stretcher bond, random arrangements and other repeating patterns depending on the size and shape of the stone. For driveways, the layout should not only look good. The units need to work together as a stable paved surface, with correctly prepared foundations and properly restrained edges. For paths, borders and patio edging there is usually more freedom. Different sizes or colours can also be mixed to create a border or to separate one paved area from another.

Natural stone block paving does not automatically need to be sealed. Dense stones such as granite are commonly left unsealed. Sandstone and limestone may sometimes be sealed where reducing staining or water absorption is important, but the decision depends on the particular stone and the location.

If a sealer is used, always choose a product specifically suitable for natural stone and test it on a small area first. A sealer can change the colour or appearance of the stone, so it should never be applied across the whole driveway without testing. However, there is normally no need to worry too much if the finished appearance is not exactly as expected. Most penetrating sealers gradually weather and fade over time, and the natural appearance of the stone will usually return closer to its original condition.

In the UK, block paving used for driveways is normally in direct contact with vehicle tyres, so most homeowners do not seal it. Unlike a patio, a driveway generally does not have the same demand for a sealed decorative finish.

For more detailed information about natural stone block paving, including granite setts, sandstone cobbles, limestone paving blocks, driveway use, sizes, installation, maintenance and sealing, visit our Block Paving Stones Frequently Asked Questions.