The Value of Premium Ancillaries

Investing in quality ancillaries is as important as selecting the patio paving itself. Using high-quality tools and installation materials ensures that your patio remains beautiful, functional and low-maintenance for years to come. While cheaper alternatives may save money upfront, they often lead to a poorer finish and greater expenses down the line, due to increased repair and maintenance needs.

London Stone’s directors come from a hard-landscaping background and understand the importance of good installation practices. This guide will help you understand the role that quality ancillaries like primer, grout, sealants and cleaners play in building and maintaining your patio.

The Role of Primers

The stability of natural stone slabs is vital. If slabs move, it can lead to grout cracks and subsequent water damage, which can undermine the entire structure of a patio. Applying primer to the underside of the paving slabs improves the bond between the stone and the bedding layer. It can also prevent moisture and cementitious material rising through the paving slabs and staining the surface. Find out more in our information about primer for coping stones London Stone stock primers from leading supplier Larsen.

The Significance of Pointing

Pointing grout is not just there to look good; it plays a crucial role in the structural integrity of the patio. Selecting the right colour jointing compound will enhance the natural beauty of your stone. Where appropriate, pointing will also prevent water from seeping beneath the slabs, protecting the sub base and the bedding layer from damage. Correctly installed, jointing ensures a neat appearance and contributes to the long-term durability of the patio. Read our advice on how to choose the right pointing.

We have an extensive selection of jointing products in a range of colours, so whatever your choice of paving, we have something to suit.

Protection and Maintenance: Sealants and Cleaners

While natural stone is robust and well suited to high use and the British climate, applying sealants in high-traffic or exposed areas of a patio will always help to reduce maintenance. Sealing is especially highly recommended for sawn natural stone types, where the cutting process exposes the pores, making them more prone to water-absorption and staining.

Sealing is a boon when laying, as it makes it easier to remove mortar stains from excess jointing that has spilt onto the paving. Cleaning this off promptly is often all that’s needed, but for stubborn residues, special products are available. Find out all you need to know about sealing and pre-sealing.

Sealing also helps with regular maintenance, making it simpler to lift off occasional stains. Our range of specialised cleaners can tackle both severe and common stains effectively, ensuring your natural stone patio retains its pristine look. By using these products, you can keep your patio looking its best with minimal effort. Find out more about our range of cleaning solutions.

Effective Water Management

Adequate drainage is essential to prevent water build-up that can damage both the patio and adjacent structures. Designing your patio with the correct falls and incorporating efficient drainage solutions are key. We have a range of patio drainage solutions.

Here to Help

Please read installation and usage guidelines for all our ancillaries carefully. For further help or advice on laying a patio, get in touch with a member of our team.