Iron sandstone is a sandstone in which the sand grains are cemented together by iron-bearing binders (iron oxides). Because of these iron oxides, the stone has a brown, rust-brown to yellow-brown colour.
Characteristics
- It is a sedimentary rock.
- The sand grains are held together by iron-bearing binders.
- The colour ranges from brown and rust-brown to yellow-brown.
- The stone is fairly soft and prone to weathering.
Application
In the Netherlands and Belgium, iron sandstone was quarried locally and used in the Middle Ages as natural stone for:
- churches;
- castles;
- city walls.
Because the stone is fairly soft and prone to weathering, it is found mainly in old, historic buildings. During restoration, iron sandstone therefore requires special attention.
Related terms
- Natural stone
- Limestone
- Marl
- Sedimentary rock
- Bluestone
- Erosion
Want to learn more about construction terms? Visit our knowledge base at fredsdiyplans.com.