Saint Valmier limestone terrace in Toul

The project

A family in Toul wanted to replace an ageing timber deck with a low-maintenance stone surface, with direct access to the garden below.

The choices

They chose sandblasted brushed Saint Valmier paving in 60 × 60 × 3 cm for its light beige shade, and three shot-blasted Saint Valmier block steps leading down to the garden.

Saint Valmier is a French limestone with a light beige shade and a soft texture. Its sandblasted brushed finish gives it an authentic charm, while the shot-blasted finish of the steps provides a non-slip surface for the outdoor stairs.

Installation

A local landscaper removed the old deck, poured a concrete slab and laid the stone in about three weeks.

For a durable terrace, paving is laid on a stable, free-draining base with a fall of about 1.5 to 2% to drain water, using an adhesive and grout designed for outdoor use and natural stone. Our in-store advisers can recommend the right installation products.

Solid block steps are laid directly on a stable foundation, with a slight forward slope to shed water.

The result

About 65 m² of light-coloured terrace and access to the garden via three solid steps, all in a single stone shade.

Like any limestone, the terrace benefits from a suitable water-repellent treatment and cleaning with pH-neutral products; acidic products should be avoided.