Are Sandstone Paver Walkways Safe for Pets and Children?

Sandstone is a popular choice among homeowners when it comes to constructing an outdoor walkway for their homes. However, when considering whether or not to use it in a family-friendly environment, it is important to assess whether it is safe for pets and children. In this post, we take a closer look at the key characteristics of sandstone pavers and their use in walkways to help you determine whether they are the right choice for your outdoor walkways.

Safety Considerations for Pets and Children

When it comes to safety, here are some key things to consider for sandstone pavers:

Slip Resistance

Sandstone pavers provide natural traction given their rough surfaces. This makes them generally slip resistant and suitable for pets and children to traverse on. However, when they are wet, they can become slippery. It may therefore be a good idea to invest in a sealing option or textured finish for your sandstone pavers, or to only use sandstone pavers in areas that are not exposed to the weather.

Surface Temperature

When exposed to direct sunlight, sandstone pavers can absorb a significant amount of heat and retain this heat for a long time. This could lead to hot surfaces that might be potentially uncomfortable for pets’ paws and bare feet. A possible way to mitigate the effects of this might be to opt for lighter coloured sandstone to reduce heat absorption or to only install sandstone pavers in shaded areas.

Durability

Sandstone is a durable material that is well able to withstand foot traffic and pet activity. This means that your pets and children play on or around your sandstone walkway is unlikely to cause damage to it. However, chipping might occur over time and it is important to take steps to rectify this when it occurs to prevent it from becoming a safety hazard.

Maintenance Tips for a Safe Walkway

Keeping your sandstone walkway well-maintained can also help you ensure that it remains safe for your pets and children. Regular cleaning of the sandstone pavers can prevent the buildup of moss or algae, which can make the surface of your pavers slippery. At the same time, you can also occasionally seal your sandstone pavers to enhance their durability and reduce water absorption. Any cracks and uneven surfaces should be repaired as soon as possible to minimise the danger that they pose to your pets and children.

Build the Perfect Walkway with Quality Sandstone Pavers

Using only quality sandstone pavers in the construction of your walkway can go a long way to ensuring that it remains safe for your pets and children. Fulton Brickyard is the number one supplier of bricks and paving supplies in Melbourne. We have a large selection of landscaping supplies available that you can choose from, including sandstone pavers, terracotta pavers, and Boral bricks. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you build the perfect sandstone paver walkway for your home.