The outdoor environment is complex and changeable, and the requirements for paving stones are also diverse. Besides slate, there are many other types of stones that play important roles in outdoor paving.

Sandstone

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock, and its granular structure gives it a unique texture. It comes in a rich variety of colors, ranging from light yellow to dark brown, capable of creating a warm and natural atmosphere. Sandstone is relatively soft in texture, but it has good air permeability and sound absorption properties. In some outdoor places where a quiet atmosphere needs to be created, such as courtyards, leisure corners of parks, etc., sandstone is a good choice. It can also blend well with the surrounding greenery, adding natural beauty. However, due to its relatively soft texture, it is not very suitable for areas with high traffic flow or frequent passage of heavy objects.

Limestone

Limestone is also a common paving stone for outdoor use. It has a relatively uniform texture and soft colors, with common ones being white, gray, etc. Limestone has a moderate hardness, with certain wear resistance and durability. It is widely used in places such as municipal squares, walkways around historical buildings, etc., and can exhibit a classical and solemn style. At the same time, limestone has good weathering resistance and can remain stable in the outdoor environment for a long time.

Basalt

Basalt is a volcanic rock with a hard texture, excellent wear resistance, and compressive resistance. It is mostly black or dark gray in color, giving a sense of stability and grandeur. Basalt is often used in areas with high traffic flow, such as roads and parking lots, and can withstand frequent rolling of vehicles. Its rough surface provides good anti - slip performance, ensuring the safety of pedestrians and vehicles in wet or icy conditions in winter.

Quartzite

Quartzite is favored for its high hardness and bright appearance. Its main component is silica, with extremely high wear resistance and stain resistance. Quartzite comes in a rich variety of colors, and the colors are long - lasting and not easy to fade. In high - end commercial plazas, outdoor entrances of hotels, and other places with high requirements for aesthetics and durability, quartzite paving stones can show a luxurious and exquisite effect.

Different paving stones for outdoor use have their own advantages and disadvantages. When choosing, it is necessary to comprehensively consider factors such as the functional requirements of the use place, the pedestrian and vehicle flow, the budget, and the overall design style. Only in this way can the most suitable paving stones be selected to create a practical and beautiful outdoor space.