Sandstone (sometimes called Quartzitic Stone)
Tennessee Crab Orchard Stone
Tennessee Crab Orchard Stone is a unique type of sandstone, sometimes described as a quartzitic stone, quarried in the Cumberland Plateau region of Tennessee. It is known for its distinctive colors, ranging from pinks, tans, and browns to grays and greens, and its naturally slip-resistant surface. Formed from ancient riverbed deposits, it is a durable and versatile building material.
- Origin
- Tennessee, USA
- Quarry
- Cumberland County, Crossville, Tennessee, USA
- Mohs hardness
- 6-7
- Water absorption
- 0.5% - 1.5%
- ASTM spec
- Sandstone typically falls under ASTM C616 (Standard Specification for Quartz-Arenite Dimension Stone). Specific ASTM data for Tennessee Crab Orchard Stone includes: Absorption by Weight (ASTM C97): 0.5% - 1.5%, Modulus of Rupture (ASTM C99): 1200-2000 psi, Compressive Strength (ASTM C170): 10,000-18,000 psi.
- Installed price
- $15 - $40 (General flagstone patios installed range from $15-$30/sq ft. Natural stone veneer installed can be $25-$40/sq ft. Pricing varies based on thickness, cut, and application).
- Slab price
- $3 - $10 (Material cost for flagstone can range from $3-$10/sq ft depending on thickness and type. Some sources list 1-inch thick slabs at $4.50/sq ft, 2-inch thick at $7.50/sq ft).
- Finishes
- Natural Cleft, Sawn, Tumbled, Thermal (less common)
- Applications
- Patios, walkways, stepping stones, pool coping, wall caps, veneers, fireplaces, landscaping, interior flooring.
- USA distributors
- Tennessee Stone & Design, Vulcan Materials Company, various local landscape suppliers and stone yards.
- Maintenance
- Durable and low maintenance. Requires sealing periodically to protect against staining, especially in high-traffic or wet areas. Clean with mild soap and water.