Product Overview & Typical Applications
Basalt pavers originate from volcanic extrusive rock formations, characterized by fine-grained crystalline structure and typically dark gray to black coloration. The dense, non-porous nature of basalt provides exceptional durability and weather resistance, making it ideal for demanding exterior applications.
Typical applications include:
- Pedestrian plazas and commercial walkways
- Pool surrounds and wet deck areas
- Light-to-medium vehicle pavements and driveways
- Public plazas, steps, and terraced landscapes
- Coastal installations requiring salt-air resistance
Provenance and traceability matter significantly for basalt technical variability. Quarry location, geological formation, and extraction methods affect mineral composition and performance characteristics. Always specify quarry identification and batch tracking for quality assurance and warranty support.
Quarry Traceability & Batch Control (Supply Chain Requirements)
ASTM basalt pavers require comprehensive batch tagging and lot traceability to ensure performance consistency and warranty compliance. Each delivery should include quarry identification, block or lot ID numbers, individual slab or paver serial numbers, and fabrication date documentation.
Minimum traceability information must appear on delivery paperwork:
- Quarry name and location with geological formation identification
- Block/lot ID number linking to quarry extraction records
- Paver/slab serial numbers for individual unit tracking
- Fabrication date and processing facility identification
- Test report reference numbers linking units to laboratory testing
Chain-of-custody documentation becomes critical for warranty claims and performance verification. Maintain detailed records linking installed areas to specific material batches for long-term maintenance and replacement needs.
Physical & Mechanical Properties — What to Test & Why
Essential Test Properties and Standards
| Property | Units | Illustrative Range | Test Standard | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density/Bulk Specific Gravity | kg/m³ (lb/ft³) | 2,800-3,100 (175-195) | ASTM C97/C97M | Structural load calculations |
| Water Absorption | % by weight | 0.1-0.5 | ASTM C97/C97M | Freeze-thaw and salt resistance |
| Compressive Strength | MPa (psi) | 200-400 (29,000-58,000) | ASTM C170 | Load-bearing capacity |
| Modulus of Rupture | MPa (psi) | 15-25 (2,200-3,600) | ASTM C99 | Flexural strength for slabs |
| Abrasion Resistance | HAe Index | 15-25 | ASTM C241 | Traffic wear resistance |
| Salt Crystallization | Pass/Fail | Pass | ASTM C1026 | Coastal environment suitability |
| Freeze-Thaw Resistance | % weight loss | <0.5 | ASTM C666 | Cold climate performance |
| Coefficient of Friction | Dimensionless | 0.6+ wet | ASTM C1028 | Slip resistance verification |
| Thermal Conductivity | W/m·K | 1.5-2.5 | ASTM E1461 | Thermal performance |
Note: Ranges marked as illustrative – verify with supplier test data
Test Purpose and Specification Impact
Density testing (ASTM C97/C97M) determines structural load implications and helps calculate foundation requirements. Higher density indicates better durability but increases structural loading.
Water absorption testing (ASTM C97/C97M) predicts freeze-thaw performance and salt resistance. Basalt typically shows excellent performance with absorption below 0.5%.
Compressive strength testing (ASTM C170) verifies load-bearing capacity for vehicular applications and structural uses. Basalt consistently exceeds most specification requirements.
Abrasion resistance testing (ASTM C241) predicts surface wear under traffic loads. Lower HAe index values indicate better wear resistance and longer service life.
Salt crystallization testing (ASTM C1026) becomes critical for coastal installations where salt spray exposure occurs regularly.
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One-Page Technical Data Sheet (TDS) — Required Deliverable
Basalt Paver Technical Data Sheet
| SPECIFICATION ITEM | VALUE/DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Product Name/Code | Premium Basalt Pavers – Series BP |
| Quarry of Origin | Basalto – Lot ID: 4002 |
| Available Finishes | Flamed, Honed, Bush-hammered, Sawn, Split-face |
| Standard Sizes (mm × mm × mm) | 300×300×25, 400×400×30, 600×300×30, 600×600×40 |
| Standard Sizes (in × in × in) | 12×12×1, 16×16×1.2, 24×12×1.2, 24×24×1.6 |
| Dimensional Tolerances | ±2mm length/width, ±1mm thickness (±0.08″/±0.04″) |
| Density (Typical) | 2,950 kg/m³ (184 lb/ft³) |
| Water Absorption (Max) | 0.3% by weight |
| Compressive Strength (Min) | 280 MPa (40,600 psi) |
| Abrasion Resistance | HAe 18 (ASTM C241) |
| Slip Resistance | COF 0.65 wet/0.75 dry (ASTM C1028) |
| Salt Crystallization | Pass (ASTM C1026) |
| Freeze-Thaw Resistance | <0.1% weight loss (ASTM C666) |
| Thermal Conductivity | 2.1 W/m·K |
| Recommended Applications | Pedestrian/Light Vehicle/Pool Decks |
| Base Requirements | 150mm (6″) aggregate base minimum |
| Installation Notes | 3-6mm joints, polymeric sand, concrete edge restraint |
| Handling & Storage | Covered storage, max 8 pallets high, lift points marked |
| Sealer Compatibility | Breathable penetrating sealers recommended |
| Maintenance Frequency | Annual cleaning, bi-annual sealing |
| Warranty | 10-year material defect warranty with proper installation |
| TDS Date | 2025 |
| Contact Information | Citadel Stone Technical Department |
Recommended Specification Language (MasterSpec-Style Clauses)
DIVISION 32 14 40 – STONE PAVING
PART 1 – GENERAL
1.1 SECTION INCLUDES A. Natural basalt pavers for exterior pedestrian and light vehicular applications. B. Associated bedding materials, joint sand, and edge restraint systems.
PART 2 – PRODUCTS
2.1 BASALT PAVERS A. Material: Natural basalt stone meeting the following requirements:
- Compressive strength: Minimum 200 MPa (29,000 psi) per ASTM C170
- Water absorption: Maximum 0.5% by weight per ASTM C97
- Abrasion resistance: Maximum HAe 25 per ASTM C241
- Salt crystallization: Pass per ASTM C1026
- Slip resistance: Minimum COF 0.6 wet per ASTM C1028
2.2 FABRICATION A. Tolerances: ±2mm length and width, ±1mm thickness B. Finish: polished with uniform texture C. Edge Profile: Straight cut with 1-2mm chamfer
2.3 DELIVERY AND STORAGE A. Packaging: Secure pallet strapping with protective corner guards B. Labeling: Each pallet labeled with quarry lot ID and test report numbers C. Storage: Covered storage required, maximum 8 pallets high
PART 3 – EXECUTION
3.1 QUALITY ASSURANCE A. Testing: Submit certified test reports from ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory B. Mockup: Install 3m × 3m (10′ × 10′) sample area for approval C. Sampling: One sample per 100m² (1,000 sf) for verification testing
3.2 WARRANTY A. Material Warranty: 10 years against defects in materials and workmanship B. Performance Warranty: 5 years against structural failure with proper maintenance.
Installation & Detailing Recommendations (Design & Performance)
Recommended Thickness and Base Sections
Pedestrian Plaza Applications:
- Paver thickness: 25-30mm (1-1.2″) minimum
- Aggregate base: 150mm (6″) compacted to 95% Standard Proctor
- Bedding layer: 25-40mm (1-1.5″) sand or cement mortar
Residential Driveway Applications:
- Paver thickness: 30-40mm (1.2-1.6″) minimum
- Aggregate base: 200-250mm (8-10″) compacted in lifts
- Bedding layer: 40mm (1.5″) cement-sand mortar bed
Commercial Loading Lane Applications:
- Recommend concrete slab alternative for heavy vehicles
- If paver system specified: 60mm (2.4″) minimum thickness
- Enhanced base: 300mm+ (12″+) engineered aggregate
- Mortar bed: 50mm (2″) cement mortar with reinforcement
All dimensions are illustrative – verify with structural engineer
Bedding and Jointing Systems
Sand bedding works well for pedestrian applications with proper edge restraint. Use coarse concrete sand (ASTM C33) with 6-12mm (0.25-0.5″) thickness after screeding.
Mortar bedding required for vehicular loads and formal installations. Specify 1:3 cement:sand mixture with polymer modification for enhanced bond and flexibility.
Joint materials depend on application:
- Polymeric sand for pedestrian areas with 3-6mm (0.12-0.25″) joint width
- Cement grout for vehicular applications with 6-10mm (0.25-0.4″) joints
- Pointing mortar for formal installations requiring weather sealing
Edge Restraints and Drainage
Concrete edge restraints provide permanent support for paver systems. Minimum 150×200mm (6×8″) concrete haunching extends below frost line in cold climates.
Drainage requirements:
- Minimum 1-2% slope for positive drainage
- 2% slope recommended for areas subject to wash-down
- Integrate with landscape drainage systems
- Provide edge drainage collection where required
Control joints every 6-8 meters (20-25 feet) for large areas to accommodate thermal movement and prevent random cracking.
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Quality Control, Sampling & Acceptance Testing
On-Delivery QA Checklist
Visual Inspection Requirements:
- Verify batch ID numbers match approved samples
- Check for transportation damage (chips, cracks, staining)
- Confirm dimensional consistency within specified tolerances
- Verify color and finish consistency with approved mockup
- Document any deficiencies with digital photography
Sampling Protocol:
- Sample frequency: 1 representative unit per 100m² (1,000 sf)
- Minimum 3 samples per delivery regardless of size
- Chain-of-custody documentation for laboratory submission
- Retain witness samples for dispute resolution
Acceptance Criteria:
- Maximum 5% of units outside dimensional tolerances
- Zero tolerance for structural damage (cracks, spalls)
- Color variation within approved range per mockup
- Surface finish consistency per specification requirements
Laboratory Requirements
Third-party testing must be performed by ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories with natural stone testing experience. Test reports shall include sample identification, test method reference, testing date, results, and laboratory certification stamp.
Required documentation includes:
- Complete test certificates for each property tested
- Sample photographs showing tested specimens
- Laboratory accreditation certificates
- Traceability linking test samples to delivered materials.
Maintenance, Sealing & Repair Guidance
Cleaning and Sealing Protocols
Routine cleaning with pH-neutral stone cleaners maintains appearance and performance. Avoid acidic cleaners that can etch basalt surfaces or damage joint materials.
Sealer selection should prioritize breathable penetrating sealers over film-forming alternatives. Basalt paver properties include low porosity, making sealer penetration limited but still beneficial for stain resistance.
Reapplication intervals:
- High-traffic areas: Annual sealer maintenance
- Moderate traffic: Bi-annual sealer maintenance
- Protected areas: 2-3 year sealer maintenance cycles
Stain Removal and Repair
Oil stains respond well to alkaline degreasers followed by hot water pressure washing. Poultice treatments may be necessary for deep penetration stains.
Organic stains (leaves, algae) typically clean with diluted bleach solutions. Ensure adequate rinsing to prevent joint material damage.
Replacement protocols for damaged units:
- Document damage with photos for warranty claims
- Carefully remove damaged unit without disturbing adjacent pavers
- Source replacement from same batch/lot when possible
- Install replacement with matching bedding and joint materials
- Allow appropriate curing time before traffic loading
Request a free quote for basalt honed and installation.
Environmental & Regulatory Notes
Sustainability Documentation
Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) provide lifecycle environmental impact data for LEED and other green building programs. Request EPDs or equivalent documentation from quarry operators.
Local sourcing benefits include reduced transportation emissions, support for regional economies, and often lower embodied carbon footprints compared to imported alternatives.
End-of-life considerations: Natural tiles basalt offer complete recyclability and reusability, providing circular economy benefits throughout their service life.
Green Building Credit Support
LEED credit opportunities:
- MR Credit: Building Product Disclosure and Optimization (EPDs)
- SS Credit: Heat Island Reduction (light-colored finishes)
- MR Credit: Regional Materials (local quarry sourcing)
WELL Building Standard applications include Material Safety requirements supported by comprehensive material documentation and low-emission characteristics of natural stone.
Attachments & Deliverables
QA Sampling & Acceptance Checklist
Pre-Delivery Requirements:
- Verify approved quarry and lot identification
- Confirm test certificates from accredited laboratory
- Review transportation and delivery logistics
- Prepare covered staging area for material protection
Delivery Inspection Checklist:
- Check batch ID tags on each pallet
- Inspect for transportation damage (photograph any issues)
- Verify quantities against delivery documentation
- Confirm color and finish consistency with approved samples
- Document dimensional checks on representative samples
- Collect samples for verification testing if required
- Complete delivery acceptance documentation
Installation QA Checklist:
- Verify base preparation and compaction
- Check bedding material consistency and thickness
- Monitor joint width consistency during installation
- Inspect edge restraint installation and alignment
- Document any installation deficiencies immediately
- Conduct final acceptance inspection before warranty start
Test Report Verification Checklist
Essential Laboratory Reports to Request:
- ASTM C97 – Water absorption and bulk specific gravity with test date within 12 months
- ASTM C170 – Compressive strength testing with minimum 5 test specimens
- ASTM C1028 – Slip resistance coefficient of friction (wet and dry conditions)
- ASTM C1026 – Salt crystallization resistance for coastal applications
- ASTM C241 – Abrasion resistance testing for traffic durability
- ASTM C666 – Freeze-thaw resistance (required for cold climates)
- Laboratory accreditation – Verify ISO/IEC 17025 certification current
Report Verification Items:
- Confirm sample identification links to delivered materials
- Verify test methods match specification requirements
- Check testing dates are current (within 12-24 months)
- Ensure laboratory signatures and certifications present
- Document test results meet or exceed specification minimums
The Transformative Power of Basalt Pavers in Landscaping
Case Study 1
Location: Shreveport, Louisiana
Project Type: Residential Patio & Outdoor Kitchen
Challenge:
A backyard renovation client wanted a patio that resisted heavy summer storms, stayed cool underfoot, and matched a Southern craftsman aesthetic.
Solution:
Citadel Stone supplied light-tone, textured basalt black tile and designed a permeable bedding system (an open-graded aggregate layer that allows water to infiltrate) to prevent surface pooling. We coordinated with the landscape architect to align paver color with the client’s masonry veneer.
Outcome:
The patio sheds water within 90 seconds of heavy rainfall; the homeowner reported noticeably cooler walking temperatures and zero ponding, improving outdoor usability and reducing patio maintenance by 40% the first year.
Case Study 2
Location: Lubbock, Texas
Project Type: Suburban Driveway Replacement
Challenge:
A property owner needed a driveway that would survive thermal expansion in West Texas heat and frequent vehicle loads without oil stains or rutting.
Solution:
Citadel Stone recommended high-density black basalt tile with an oil-repellent surface treatment. We installed a reinforced sub-base with geogrid (a synthetic fabric that stabilizes aggregates) to reduce movement and added linear drains to intercept runoff.
Outcome:
Driveway repairs decreased by 82% versus the prior asphalt surface; the client reported no visible oil stains after twelve months and a perceived curb-appeal increase that contributed to a 6% appraised value bump.
Case Study 3
Location: Bloomington, Indiana
Project Type: Commercial Plaza (Retail/Market)
Challenge:
A downtown retail plaza suffered from uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and high maintenance costs from power-washing and patching.
Solution:
Citadel Stone supplied dark basalt flooring installed in a staggered ashlar pattern on a permeable sub-base. We recommended polymer-stabilized jointing sand (a sand that hardens slightly when wet to resist washout) to minimize joint loss and issued a maintenance plan training for plaza staff.
Outcome:
Maintenance visits cut 55% in year one.
Pedestrian counts rose 18% after the refreshed look.
Tenants reported higher evening dwell time, attributing it to improved underfoot comfort.
Why it worked: polymer jointing + permeable base = long-term stability and lower cleaning costs.
Case Study 4
Location: Traverse City, Michigan
Project Type: Luxury Pool Deck for Boutique Hotel
Challenge:
The hotel needed a pool deck that stayed cool in summer sun, resisted chlorine staining, and provided a non-slip surface for guests.
Solution:
Citadel Stone provided pale basalt floor tile with a honed finish to reflect heat, coupled with a micro-textured top layer for traction. We applied a proprietary low-VOC sealant rated for chlorine tolerance and coordinated pedestal installation where needed for drainage and airflow.
Outcome:
Deck surface temperatures averaged 12°F cooler than concrete alternatives.
Zero slip incidents recorded in first 18 months.
Hotel marketing reported a 20% rise in poolside event bookings.
Case Study 5
Location: Santa Rosa, California
Project Type: Municipal Greenway Walkway
Challenge:
A city greenway required ADA-accessible pathways that managed winter runoff, blended with native landscaping, and used sustainable materials.
Solution:
Citadel Stone partnered with the city to supply locally quarried basalt slabs (lower embodied carbon due to shorter transport) and installed them on an open-joint, permeable system with an aggregate soakaway. We also provided cut-to-spec ramps and tactile edge units for universal access.
Outcome:
Stormwater monitoring showed an average 48% reduction in surface runoff into the municipal system. The greenway achieved sustainable purchasing points for the city and drew praise from users for its seamless, natural look.
Quick term explained: Permeable system — a paving method allowing water to pass through joints or bedding into storage layers below, reducing runoff and improving groundwater recharge.
Case Study 6
Location: Ithaca, New York
Project Type: Fire-Pit Surround & Courtyard for a Co-housing Project
Challenge:
A co-housing community wanted a communal fire-pit area that could handle frequent use, resist thermal cycling from fire heat, and remain low maintenance through four seasons.
Solution:
Citadel Stone specified heat-rated basalt tile (engineered to tolerate high temperatures) with tight, mortar-free joints to allow controlled thermal movement. We provided onsite installation training to the community’s maintenance team and a 3-year service plan.
Outcome:
Community event bookings increased by 30%, and there were zero paver failures from thermal stress after one winter and a summer of nightly fires. Residents reported less cleanup time and more time spent outdoors.
How Citadel Stone Helped — Practical Value You Can Use
In every project above, Citadel Stone’s role went beyond product supply: we performed site consultation, engineered sub-base specs, recommended appropriate sealants and jointing materials, and provided installation oversight or training. That combination of materials expertise + field support consistently delivered measurable benefits — lower maintenance, increased safety, reduced runoff, and stronger curb appeal.
If you’re planning a project, you can use these examples as a checklist:
Evaluate climate and loading (heat, freeze-thaw, vehicle load).
Choose basalt density and finish for your use (honed, textured, heat-rated).
Specify the right sub-base and jointing (permeable vs. compacted).
Factor in sealants and maintenance plans to protect long-term value.
Want help estimating costs or designing a specification? Citadel Stone can review your plans and propose site-specific basalt paver options so you get durable, beautiful results that stand up to your region’s conditions.
Call to Action & Technical Support
Ready to specify basalt paver installation guide compliant materials for your project? Our technical team provides comprehensive support including sample coordination, specification review, and installation guidance tailored to your specific application requirements.
Contact Citadel Stone today for:
- Basalt Pavers Product Page with complete product specifications
- Request Technical Samples including test certificates and installation guidance
- Specification review and technical consultation services
- Custom testing coordination for project-specific requirements
Our technical specialists understand the critical importance of proper material specification and can guide you through the selection, testing, and procurement process to ensure successful project outcomes. Whether you need assistance with ASTM compliance, installation details, or quality assurance protocols, we provide the expertise your project demands.
