Bluestone

The surface of a thermal bluestone tile is heat-treated to create a textured, non-slip surface. Thermal bluestone tiles are very popular for all types of walkways and outdoor surfaces that need to be non-slip, even in the rain.

The surface of a honed bluestone tile will be smoother than other finishes and the hue may be darkened slightly. Honed bluestone tiles are most often used indoors where their sheeny surface is most appreciated.

Cleft bluestone tiles have a smooth backside and an outward surface that is deliberately unrefined. This creates a more natural look that works well in outdoor and rustic environments. Cleft bluestone tiles are particularly grippy, even when very wet.

Bluestone is affordable and easy to install in homes and workplaces in New Zealand. In terms of strength, bluestone slab or tiles outperforms concrete, making it a practical and long-lasting material for high-traffic areas such as driveways or walkways. The appealing blue-grey colour of bluestone can suit a wide variety of decors and environments, both modern and rustic. The size of bluestone tiles is very variable so it's important to discuss the pricing with professionals. It’s also important to find tiles with dimensions that neatly fit the space in which you’re looking to install them.

Bluestone can range in colour between blue and grey hues. Before purchasing, you should test the colour of the bluestone you’re considering in the environment you’re planning to install it in. Be aware that, sometimes, “full range” is used to refer to bluestone that contains hints of other colours, such as rust, sliver, brown, green, or even purple. Consider what kind of finish will be most practical for your bluestone tiles; remember, thermal and cleft finishes are non-slip, whereas honed is not. Other types of stone slabs are available like quartz stone slabs or engineered stones.