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Above is the range panel located at our factory on Portland which shows the typical geological characteristics of Bowers Basebed
Clean Basebed, it may contain small grey shell fragments. Some recent production has higher concentration of shells.
The shell fragments are randomly distributed across the stone. Some areas in the quarry have yielded cross bedding.
Bowers Basebed has a tight texture but some of the recent production is a little coarser than previously extracted.
Typical Portland colour, creamy/white. The shell concentrations and texture variation can give it slightly deeper tones.
Other Available Beds of Portland Stone
Ashlar cladding | Yes |
Masonry inc. copings, lintels & cills | Yes |
Load bearing Masonry inc. columns | Yes |
Plinths | No All porous limestones will draw in moisture that could contain stains from surrounding media so it advisable to ensure that paving is laid to a fall away from the stones. |
External paving inc. thresholds, swimming pool surrounds & steps | No We are aware that Basebed has been used extensively in London for thresholds without any problems, but salt crystallisation could cause accelerated weathering in some situations. |
Swimming pool cladding at and below the waterline | No We would advise against the use of any limestone inside the actual pool. |
Internal flooring and walls linings inc. stairs | Yes |
Internal worktops, inc. vanity and kitchen | No There are products that can be used to protect the stone. |
Wet room areas inc. shower trays and saunas | No In most circumstances, although there are sealers that can protect the stone. |
Fireplaces | Yes |
Carving and sculpture | Yes Finer details might be lost in the shell structure. |
Headstones | Yes |
Some Examples
Bowers Basebed is the premium quality, fine grain Portland stone. Perfect for ashlar walls, flooring and intricate stonework, it was used on Eric Parry's award winning 30 Finsbury Square.
Get a sample
Samples sent in the post are indicative of the typical colour and surface texture of the stone. They are unable to show all the natural variations in visual appearance, colour, texture and geological features that are present in all natural stones. To fully understand the geology of our Portland Stone, we would recommend a visit to view the large range panels approximately 3m x 2m at our factory site on Portland. Once your selection is made we will be delighted to send you a sample of your desired stone.
Standard Portland stone samples are 150mm x 150mm at 20mm thick
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