Laboratory · Natural stone
Marble, limestone, travertine and granite are used for cladding, paving, steps and masonry. Their strength, density and absorption decide where a stone can safely go and how it will weather.
All six tests are accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 (DPA certificate LT 069).
6accredited tests on this page
ISO/IEC 17025DPA certificate LT 069, valid to 07.06.2029
EN · ISO · ASTMcurrent editions of the referenced standards
In our laboratoryVrrin, Durrës–Tirana motorway, km 29
When you need these tests
- Quarries and processors declaring properties for CE marking and export.
- Façade cladding, where flexural strength sets slab thickness and anchoring.
- External paving and steps that must resist frost and staining.
Accredited tests and standards
Natural stone
| Test | What it tells you | Range | Standard | Where |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uniaxial compressive strength | Uniaxial compressive strength of the stone | 1–88 MPa | BS EN 1926:2006; ASTM D5873-14; ASTM D6032/D6032M-17 | Laboratory |
| Flexural strength | Bending strength for cladding and paving slabs | 0.05–15 MPa | BS EN 12372:2022; BS EN 13161:2008 | Laboratory |
| Real density, apparent density and open porosity | Real and apparent density and open porosity | 500–3200 kg/m³ | BS EN 1936:2006; BS EN 772-4:1998; ASTM D6473-15 | Laboratory |
| Water absorption at atmospheric pressure | Water absorption, the indicator of frost and stain resistance | 0.1–10% | BS EN 13755:2008 | Laboratory |
| Natural water content | Natural moisture content of the stone | 0.1–10% | ASTM D2216-19 | Laboratory |
| Dimensions of natural stone (slabs, cubes, blocks) | Dimensions of slabs, cubes and blocks | 0.1–500 mm | BS EN 772-15:2011 | Laboratory |
Sampling and what to send us
- Specimens cut to the standard sizes, or blocks from which we cut them.
- Note the stone name, origin and finish.
What your test report contains
- A unique report number, the accredited laboratory’s details and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation mark for accredited tests.
- Sample identification, sampling details and the condition of the sample on receipt.
- The standard and method used for every test, with any deviation stated.
- Results with units, and comparison with the specified limits when you give them to us.
- Signature of the authorised laboratory staff.
Frequently asked questions
Which tests does cladding stone need?
At least flexural strength, apparent density and water absorption; the anchoring designer then uses the strength to size the slabs.
Related testing
Need these tests for your project?
Tell us the material, the quantity of samples and the specification you are working to. We’ll confirm the tests, the sampling and the price.