Gres Fontainebleau Sandstone

Gres Fontainebleau Sandstone, quarried near the historic Forest of Fontainebleau in the Île-de-France region of France, is renowned for its durability, fine grain, and distinctive aesthetic. Its light grey to whitish-grey color makes it a popular choice for a variety of architectural and design applications.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption:Typically low, contributing to its durability and weather resistance.

• Density:2370 kg/m³, indicating a compact and strong material.

• Flexural Strength:High flexural strength suitable for varied structural applications.

• Compressive Strength:98.3 N/mm², indicating significant load-bearing capacity.

• Hardness:Exhibits excellent hardness, providing resistance to scratching and wear.

• Porosity:Low porosity rate, which contributes to its water resistance and minimal maintenance requirements.

• Slip Resistance:Generally offers good slip resistance, especially when treated with certain finishes, making it viable for flooring in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Chemical and Mineral Compositions (% by weight):

• Quartz: Predominantly quartzitic in nature, giving it strength and durability.
• Silica (SiO2): High silica content due to its quartz-based composition.
• Other Minerals: May contain minor portions of feldspar, clay minerals, and mica, which could impart slight color variations and contribute to the texture.

Note: Exact chemical and mineral compositions can vary depending on the specific quarry site.

Uses:

• Construction:Used in load-bearing structures due to its strength.

• Flooring and Paving:Ideal for both interior and exterior surfaces given its durability and aesthetic appeal.

• Cladding:Favored for building facades and wall treatments due to its elegant appearance.

• Monuments and Sculptures:Used in artistic applications because of its fine grain and workability.

Maintenance:

• Requires minimal maintenance due to its hardness and low porosity.
• Regular cleaning with neutral pH cleaners is recommended to maintain its appearance.
• Occasional sealing may be required in high-traffic or exterior applications to enhance its longevity.

Cutting Sizes (cm):

• Typically available in a range of standard sizes, such as:
• Tiles: 30x30, 40x40, 60x30
• Slabs: Custom sizes available upon request
• Thickness: Standard thickness ranges from 1.5 to 3 cm, but can be custom cut to specification.

Common Surface Finish Options:

• Polished:Provides a glossy finish that enhances color and pattern.

• Honed:Gives a smooth, matte finish for a softer, more subdued look.

• Sandblasted:Offers a textured finish which improves slip resistance and is ideal for flooring surfaces.

• Brushed:Provides a somewhat weathered texture, enhancing rustic or antique aesthetics.

• Natural Cleft:Maintains the stone's original surface texture, suitable for rustic and natural designs.

Gres Fontainebleau Sandstone embodies both aesthetic beauty and robust physical properties, making it an ideal natural stone for a wide array of design and construction applications.