Checklist and Delivery: Read before ordering online
Checklist when ordering
- Please ensure you order a minimum of 10 to 15% more to cover wastage and the few breaks that could occur in transit and installation - this is very normal with natural stone.
- Check your delivery postcode to see if you are in the FREE delivery area - see our DELIVERY section for areas not covered and get in touch for a quote.
- Breakages - every effort is taken to ensure the stone arrives undamaged, with it being a natural product breakages can occur and therefore the first 4% or 4 slabs / tiles (whichever is the highest) of any damage is not covered. If it is greater than this level please email detailed pictures evidencing the scale of the damage within 48hrs of receipt and we will refund on the meterage. Replacements are not sent unless the nature of the damage is excessive, typically this would be 30% (i.e. due to crate being dropped, mechanical impact etc.)
- Returns are accepted 14 days after order has been received. In this case, the buyer will bear all the expense which includes outward delivery and the cost of the return, and there may be a restocking fee of up to between 10 to 20% subject to product(s) ordered. We request customers contact us first so we can advise the procedure to follow if a return needs to be made
Delivery and Shipping Policy
For the complete delivery and shipping policy, please read from this SECTION.
How do I get an ETA/tracking information?
In most instances our delivery partner will send updates via email and/or SMS to keep you updated regarding delivery.
Returns & Refunds
For the complete details regarding returns and refunds, please read this SECTION.
Slate Hearth FAQs
Can we view the hearth before ordering online?
Yes, you can, we keep a number of hearths at our warehouse in Milton Keynes, just get in touch if you want to come over and we will make sure there's a few to view.
Slate hearth colour
With regards to colour, it's more of a dark grey with variations. It will look darker when wet or when slate oil/sealant is applied, and tonal colour variations will
show up more vividly.
Being a natural slate, there's more colour variation or movement on the surface which may be slightly darker on some part of the slabs and bit lighter on some part.
Check this video to get a better sense of the colour.
Can I collect for a reduced price?
Yes you can, we offer a collect price including VAT from our warehouse in Milton Keynes.
I am a trade buyer and I am looking for a regular supply, is that possible?
Yes of course, we supply to many trade customers, for bulk pricing please get in touch with our office and we can explain the options available.
Do you cut to size?
Check out how our custom size works. Click this link.
Is the slate easy to cut?
Slate at 20mm thick is easy enough to cut with an angle grinder that is fitted with a diamond tipped blade. Check out this video for an overview.
Your prices are very competitive - how do you do this and keep to your quality?
Good question, we have a shared production facility in Brazil which allows us to keep our costs very low and offer UK customers a really big bang for your buck. In addition, increasingly more customers are finding it more cost effective to cut the slate on site if your requirement is reasonably straight-forward.
Is slate durable?
Yes, it's very durable and resilient, we only sell Brazilian slate for this reason as other imported slates do not have the same qualities.
Are slate hearths easy to clean?
In short yes, simply dust off ay ash with a dustpan and brush and use soapy water to wash it down. Finish by cleaning with clean water to take remove the soapy solution and ensure that its clean and dry. To bring the slate back to that "new" appearance apply some teak to the surface - don't allow the oil to pool on the surface
Can this hearth be used in an open fire installation?
It can be used for a variety of uses and this spec is often used as a hearth, but I would not suggest using for an open fire type of installation as there can be a risk of cracking.
If you have a look at most companies this is a material of choice.
We also suggest confirming with your contractor as ultimately installation etc will be covered by them.
In our experience when customers have had issues it's normally due to workmanship which is outside our control.
Sealing the slate hearth
Basically clean it well, then make sure it's dry and treat with slate oil or a slate impregnating sealer. This will protect and enhance the natural beauty and aesthetics.
Can I select best piece for Slate hearth?
Collection:
Selecting the piece within reason is possible. It's a case of being practical and pragmatic given each piece is approx. 65kgs and its a two person exercise.
Delivery:
I'm afraid selecting the piece with the same exact colour or tonal variation is not possible. It's a case of being practical and pragmatic given each piece is approx. 65kgs and choosing and moving each slab out of the crate to select two slabs with closed colour variation may cause more damage and breakage.
Slate & limestone slabs FAQs
Are these slabs slip proof?
When wet, there is an increased chance of slipping but nonetheless this paving is still regarded as slip resistant as it's got quite a rugged surface (limestone) and subtle riven surface (slate).
What bed would slabs need to be laid on?
This may need to be laid over a sub-base (strengthening layer) of crushed stone or hardcore.
We don’t prescribe a solution per se as contractors may alter these according to project needs but as a guide its typically installed on full bed of mortar sometimes referred to as individual bedding. The mortar bed is laid on top of compacted hard core
(MOT) which can range from 100mm to 150mm on average.
Please always seek advice from a professional contractor as our notes are simply to serve as a general guide and
are not project specific.
Do they have to be jointed, is it possible to butt them together to reduce the gap?
Yes, they will have to be jointed. It's always better to leave a gap even a small one to allow for any expansion. Good source of reference is www.pavingexpert.com
Stone Maintenance & Sealing
Being a natural stone, it inevitably ages but to maintain the stone in its pristine condition and extend its life, we recommend sealing the stone as needed.
This will also protect the stone and makes it easier for routine cleaning. An impregnating sealer is generally better as it will last a lot longer and allows the stone to “breath” giving a route for moisture to escape. Some sealers also may have colour enhancers which will generally deepen the colour – different stones can react differently.
What's the difference between slate and limestone slabs?
Basically, slate paving slabs are sourced from Brazil while the limestone slabs are from India. Both are rated non-slip and are very easy to maintain.
Brazilian slate:
Thickness: 20mml15mm (+/-2mm)
Surface finished: Smooth with a subtle riven texture
Price: Premium end & cost more
Limestone:
Thickness: 22mm (+/-3mm)
Surface finished: More rugged like an orange peel
Price: Prefer when you are after the look but still friendly on a budget stone.
Video on Differences between slate & limestone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqQ0bF_gjv0
Do you have any layout plan / ideas so that I can check my measurements?
Check this link: https://images.app.goo.gl/f4SEVyTYJVdS73Nb6
You could use this as a guide but invariably all installations require some adaptions to suit the project. The joint to be used should be 10mm.
Can you recommend a cleaner and sealer for limestone / slate slabs?
Generally, our impregnating sealer will just give the limestone/ slate a more natural look. It won't make the slabs / tile look wet, it's more a matt finish. You can check it out from this link: Larsen Impregnating Sealer
If you're after a glossy finish, check these websites who offer these type of sealers:
Why split crates cost more?
The split crate cost more because of the split delivery charge. Full crates give more value because they ship directly from our 3rd party distribution center in Essex.
We have to bring over a full crate from Essex to our Milton Keynes warehouse to have it split before we can deliver that's why it costs more. Hope this makes sense.
Can these slabs be bullnosed for steps?
Yes with appropriate tools. Typically it's an attachment to a regular grinder.
Why are there scratches on slabs?
Surface scratches are normal occurrences on natural stones. Unless they are deep (this is caused generally by a sharp object and applying force). Surface scratches will inevitably exist as its virtually impossible to eliminate this during production, packing, shipping, transit etc. Most often these scratches /marks are removed by washing and / application of an impregnating sealer.
Helpful video: Marks on slate
I’m seeing patches on my slabs, especially after it’s rained – what is this?
All natural stones have pores and therefor they all absorb water – it’s simply a case that some stones absorb more water than others.
Secondly, the installation method for natural stone must ensure the slabs are laid on a full bed of mortar so that the mortar is fully in contact with the entire area of the stone. It’s not recommended to use spot bedding, ring bedding and other uneven mortar to support slab. This is sometimes referred to as “dot and dab” and this method tends to emphasis the patchy areas.
All natural stones may at times look patchy on the surface, especially after rain fall, each will dry out over a period of time but this is subject to ambient conditions and any specific characteristics of the ground on which they’re laid. This appearance therefore is natural and not a defect of the stone but simply characteristic of how stone behaves in these conditions. As this behaviour is largely based on the installation method and the ground characteristics, we can’t take responsibility for the appearance of the stone where such patches may appear.
Slab Installation Guideline
Slate Paving Tiles / Floor Tiles (10mm thick) FAQs
Differences in installation of tiles (10mm) and slabs (15-20mm)
A. Tiles
- Needs to be installed with a full adhesive and on a level and flat surface (concrete).
- If the surface is not level and flat (e.g., grass area), dig up the grass and put concrete and make it solid and flat like a floor before installing the tiles with adhesive.
B. Slabs
- just dot and dab of slurry
- laid over a sub-base (strengthening layer) of crushed stone or compacted hard core (MOT). We don’t prescribe a solution per se as contractors may alter these according to project needs but as a guide its typically installed on full bed of mortar sometimes referred to as individual bedding. The mortar bed is laid on top of compacted hard core (MOT) which can range from 100mm to 150mm on average.
Please always seek advice from a professional contractor as our notes are simply to serve as a general guide and are not project specific.
It would be best to talk to your contractor first before buying because the cost of installing tiles and slabs are different.
Tile Installation method
Tiles must be installed onto a concrete base and fix using tile adhesive. See tile installation video
Difference between black and grey tiles
There is more movement in the black slate which varies in colour spectrum from grey to black. For example you will see this difference in one tile at times.
The grey is more consistent and closer to a mono block colour, although there is some slight variation to tone but less noticeable in an actual tile.
Watch this video.
Why are there scratches on tiles?
Surface scratches are normal occurrences on natural stones. Unless they are deep (this is caused generally by a sharp object and applying force). Surface scratches will inevitably exist as its virtually impossible to eliminate this during production, packing, shipping, transit etc. Most often these scratches /marks are removed by washing and / application of an impregnating sealer.
Helpful video: Marks on slate
Are these slate tiles honed?
Basically, the surface is not honed, the surface has a Subtle Riven finished. These are natural stones with some undulations / natural markings on some part of the surface.
Split face Stone Claddings FAQs
Are these split face stone claddings waterproofed and can they be used externally?
These natural stone cladding can be used inside and outside (ensure area is tanked if direct water contact is likely). Which means, even though it’s a Z cladding that fits together, water can get through the gap, therefore waterproofing the wall before sticking the cladding to the wall is advisable.
Are these stone claddings fire resistant?
We don't have a specific temperature but from a practical point of view, we would not recommend placing this in an open fire.
Are the stone cladding have a mesh backing?
No mesh, just epoxy resin, it's not flexible but solid Z tiles glued together.
Installing split face stone claddings
It's quite a simple DIY task.
There is no grouting required only adhesive to stick to the wall.
Each panel is the same dimension and the z shape means they interlock.
Here's a video on how a cladding is fixed to an external wall.
Are all of the tiles do actually join together and not leaves gaps?
It is possible that there may be minor gap but this is not really noticeable when installed. This is typically within the tolerance as these pieces are put together in a jig and minor imperfections can exist. If this is of concern then I would not suggest buying as this could happen and everyone can set their expectations / ideas of tolerance at different levels - we wouldn't accept returns at our cost on this basis.
Can we seal the quartz claddings?
No, it is not recommended to seal the quartz as it will dampen and remove the sparkle on the tiles.
Is there a minimum order required for delivery?
Yes, our minimum order for delivery is 5.20m2 l 13 boxes. We need to do this because the pallet needs a certain amount of weight to avoid breakages.
Smaller quantity can only be collected from our Milton Keynes warehouse as we don't ship any orders of less than 13 boxes.
No minimum order for collections.
Recycled Teak Wood claddings FAQs
Is it possible to clad wood / hardboard?
Yes, but we would not recommend if it’s coming into contact with water because the wood would get wet.
Can these wood claddings be installed outdoors?
We would not recommend it if it’s coming into contact with water because the wood would get wet.
Nevertheless, we would advise you to consult an expert or professional builder who probably has more knowledge regarding the maintenance and correct installation of wood if it's going to be installed outdoors.
Are the tiles 'finished' e.g. matt varnished/waxed? Or are they 'raw' wood?
It is raw wood, we recommend applying teak cool to protect and enhance the colour.
How do you fix these teak claddings to the wall?
Most often, folks use products like no more nails, alternative method is tile adhesive and very rarely nailed in onto a ply backing board. Each panel is approx. 700g so there is no real load on the wall.
Other FAQs
Are your items rejects?
No not at all. All of our products are directly imported from our overseas quarry and factories, so therefore we control the quality first hand. This ensures you’re getting great quality at a great price.
How close to the actual colour of the product are the pictures?
The pictures are as close to the actual product as digital photography and individual monitors will allow. If you’re in doubt please feel free to request a sample because natural stone does vary slightly in colour, tone, texture and grain in every batch.
I’m a contractor, how could I work with your company?
We offer very competitive cash and carry prices that will suit many trade customers who can organise their own collection from our distribution centres. We can also offer trade terms to customers who are buying regularly from us and also offer direct contact with our senior management team who will oversee your account and keep you updated with all current offers – basically you’ll be the first to know and our aim is to keep you as competitive as we can.
I’m a stone dealer; can I apply to join your network?
Yes, of course. We’d love to have you as part of our network so feel free to call us on 01908 464 656 or email sales@blueskystone.com and let’s see what we can do for you.
Does the final price include VAT & delivery?
Yes, all prices in our online shop include VAT & delivery to most UK areas. We always issue a VAT invoice upon request and don't hide “VAT & delivery charge" by only calculating this during checkout. It’s important to us that we display transparent pricing from start to finish so you can make an informed decision.
Note: For click and collect items that doesn't include delivery fee, please check the products under "Click and Collect" menu.
Can I visit you to view the product?
Yes, you’re more than welcome to visit us by prior appointment. We’re based in Milton Keynes and open Monday to Friday between 9am - 3:30pm. Please note that we hold our products in multiple distribution centres and therefore before arranging a visit we would suggest you contact us first so we can advise you what products are available to view.
How does payment work?
We take security very seriously so all of your payments will be securely operated by Shopify Pay including Apple Pay, Google Pay, Visa, Master, Amex and PayPal. Once funds are cleared, delivery can take up to 5 working days to MOST UK postcodes.
I can’t find the answer to my question above, can I speak to someone?
Yes of course. Our friendly team is more than happy to help with any questions you may have. Just call 01908 46 46 56 or email sales@blueskystone.com
If you prefer to send a message why not use our convenient WhatsApp messenger or Facebook messenger app where you can send a message directly from your mobile. It's the little green phone icon at the bottom left of the screen or the blue one at the right. One of our team will respond within a few hours - sometimes a few minutes!
We’re open from Monday to Friday between 8am - 5.00pm. Weekends by prior arrangement.