Volcanic Rock
Lava stone and basalt family materials for outdoor paving, wall cladding and heat-resistant surfaces.
What is Volcanic Rock?
Volcanic rock — often called lava stone — is igneous rock formed when lava or magma cools and solidifies. The group includes basalt (the most common, fine-grained and dense), andesite, and the more porous, vesicular volcanic lava stone that shows air pockets from trapped gas. Volcanic rock is generally dark (grey, black, brown-red depending on iron content) and is valued for durability and heat resistance.
Characteristics
Dense basalt is hard, low-absorption and suitable for heavy paving; the more porous lava stone varieties are lighter, well-drained and heat-resistant, making them natural choice for outdoor and heat-contact applications. Volcanic rock performs well under freeze-thaw and thermal stress. Surface finishes include natural split, flamed, bush-hammered, honed and polished, depending on the rock density.
Applications
Volcanic rock and basalt are used for outdoor pavers, tiles and cube/cobblestones, driveways, patios and pool surroundings, wall cladding and facade panels, cobblestone and irregular paving, barbecue grill bases and heat-resistant cooking stones, and landscape stone. Its porous dark look fits both rustic and modern designs.