Sandstone is very versatile building material that has found use since prehistoric times both due to its fairly common occurrence and excellent resistance to weathering. Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of sand-sized minerals, including mostly quartz or feldspar as well as calcite, gypsum or various iron compounds.
![Henley Beach sandstone outdoor pool](/images/sandstone/sandstone_outdoor_pool.jpg)
Like sand, sandstone has a granular texture and may be found in almost any color, with the most common colors being tan, brown, yellow, red, gray, pink, and white. Since sandstone beds often form highly visible cliffs and other topographic features, certain colors of sandstone have been strongly identified with certain regions.
Sandstone tiles are very porous and susceptible to scratches, stains and fracturing. Water and oil soluble contaminants can be readily absorbed, initiating a process of deterioration. It is important to follow proper sandstone tile cleaning methods.