Natural stone is a durable material that can withstand heavy foot traffic and retain its beauty for decades. Its organic colors and textures create a sense of luxury and elegance in any room.
However, it is important to note that natural stone tile requires thorough sealing and needs to be resealed regularly to prevent spills and moisture from damaging the surface.
Durability
One of the most popular choices among homeowners is natural stone tile. It exudes high-end luxury style with durability that outlasts carpet and wood floors. It’s also versatile and aesthetically pleasing, with various designs to suit any taste. Stone floors are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, foyers, hallways, and paved outdoor areas.
Because it’s a natural material, every stone tile is unique and one of a kind. This means that no two rooms or floors will look the same. This variance in appearance can be a benefit or drawback, depending on the design aesthetic you’re going for. Because of this, many homeowners choose to mix different types of stone tiles throughout their homes. This creates more depth and variation and is a great way to contrast a room.
When choosing a stone flooring material, it’s important to consider the environment and use of the space, as well as how much maintenance it will require. Different stone types suit various environments, and some require more maintenance. It’s also important to remember that stone is a relatively expensive to purchase and install.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a reputable tile dealer in your area before deciding on a particular type of stone for your home. They will be able to guide you through the pros and cons of each material and help you choose the best option for your home.
Easy Maintenance
If you follow the correct cleaning procedures, your stone floors will remain in top showroom condition for hundreds of years. As with any flooring, it is important to sweep and mop regularly to remove built-up dirt. Using non-abrasive cleaning products is also a good idea, as acidic substances can cause damage and increase staining speed.
Vacuuming is much faster and more thorough than sweeping and will remove any dust particles that may scratch the surface of the tiles. However, if you vacuum, avoid metal attachments, which can scratch or damage the tiles.
When you mop, use a high-quality, non-abrasive tile cleaner formulated for natural stone. It is best to dilute the product with water as directed and rub the stone floor vigorously. This will help to cut down on the amount of scrubbing needed. Also, always mop up soap scum immediately to prevent it from seeping into the stone.
It is recommended to reseal your stone floors every 3-5 years. This will minimize future moisture damage and bacterial infestation. Resealing your floors will also make it easier to clean the tiles, as liquid spills will bead on the surface rather than soak into the stone.
Aesthetics
The natural beauty and authenticity of stone tile add an instant touch of luxury to any space. When used as flooring, wall tile, or backsplash, it provides a unique aesthetic without any other material. It’s also long-lasting and easy to clean, adding to its timeless beauty. It even increases your home’s value, making it a great investment for future remodeling projects.
The variety of colors, textures, and patterns available with natural stone tile makes it possible to achieve virtually any design style or aesthetic. For example, choosing a darker, rough-cut stone like slate can dramatically contrast a contemporary kitchen or bathroom. At the same time, a more pristine limestone or marble can add elegance to a traditional style. Backsplashes are another perfect application for natural stone tile, as they can showcase its unique veining and coloration to stunning effect.
As with any flooring, it’s essential to understand the specific characteristics and requirements of each natural stone tile type before deciding which one is right for your project. For instance, softer stones are more likely to scratch and chip than granite or slate, which is inappropriate for areas with heavy foot traffic.
Additionally, some natural stones are porous and must be treated with a sealant regularly to prevent staining and water damage. For these reasons, it’s best to work with a reputable natural stone supplier who can help you choose the right type of stone for your project.
Eco-Friendliness
In an era where sustainability is becoming a growing concern for homeowners and designers alike, natural stone tile provides the perfect solution. Natural stone tiles are quarried directly from the earth’s crust, making them a very authentic and eco-conscious choice. Additionally, natural stone is nontoxic and doesn’t require energy-intensive manufacturing processes.
Another reason to choose natural stone is that it does not release harmful chemicals into the air like other flooring materials can, which helps maintain a healthy indoor environment. Also, unlike carpet, which requires regular vacuuming with harsh chemicals, a stone tile floor can be easily mopped and cleaned with water or a gentle cleaner.
Stone tiles don’t need to be replaced as often as other flooring types, so they reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Moreover, many types of stone have a natural grip, so they don’t need to be covered with extra mats or carpets that can trap dirt and toxins.
Finally, stone is a completely natural product of the earth, so it is one-of-a-kind and provides a unique look that will add character to any room in your home or business. In addition, if you purchase stones that have been sourced locally, you can help cut down on transportation costs and further reduce your environmental footprint. In addition, some stone tiles are made from recycled or repurposed materials, which is even more eco-friendly!
