Choosing a flooring material is one of the biggest decisions to make when constructing a home. This is because your floor is a vital part of the overall aesthetics of your home. More so, different flooring materials suit different styles and functions.
One of the best materials to choose for style, aesthetics and functionality is natural stone. Homeowners who want their homes to have a feel of natural beauty almost always choose natural stone flooring materials, particularly marble.
Not only does natural stone offer a wide variety of floor solutions, but it is also rich and timeless. Natural stone products include stone slabs, granite tiles, marble tiles, travertine, and limestone tiles. No matter which part of the house a constructor is dealing with, choosing stone flooring is always a good idea.
What is Natural Stone Flooring?
Natural stone flooring is a tile that has been cut straight from stone blocks that have been formed by nature over millions of years. For centuries, stone tiles have been utilised in homes and commercial spaces because they are of high quality.
In addition, natural stone floor tiles are ageless and elegant. This is because natural stone-clad homes and buildings never go out of style. By choosing the right stone tile sizes, builders can manipulate small spaces to look bigger and vice versa. That said, these flooring materials are perfect for both indoor and outdoor areas.
Different Types of Natural Stone Flooring
1). Marble
Marble flooring is known for its luxurious look, smooth finish, and elevated sheen. Many people also love the dramatic decorative patterns that come with this unique flooring material. It is available in a range of colours, with white marble being the most common. Marble tiles also come in a variety of sizes, ranging from big to tiny mosaic tiles.
Additionally, marble is the most popular natural stone flooring choice for bathrooms and other wet areas. It is loved by many because it helps to achieve a spa-like atmosphere. Given the variety of floor tile options, marble is an excellent choice for flooring and countertops in many homes. Unfortunately, it is susceptible to scratching and stone experts advise that it should be used selectively.
2). Granite
Granite tiles are considered superior to all other types of floors in terms of durability and are hence the best floor for kitchen surfaces. It has a rated hardness of 7, making it harder than marble. In addition, it does not scuff, etch, or sear your skin.
More importantly, when coated, staining is not an issue, and darker hues may not even require sealing. It’s also simple to clean and conceals dust and filth, so you won’t have to sweep and mop every day. Therefore, if you are looking for stone flooring that is easy to maintain, granite should be at the top of your list.
3). Slate
Slate is stone floors distinguished by their fine grain and distinct cleft texture. They are both appealing and unique because they come in different colours. They are scratch-proof but hard to repair once broken.
4). Travertine
Travertine is a flooring material formed when hot spring water flows through limestone. Its distinct features and look make it a desirable flooring option. Restrooms, shower stalls, corridors, living areas, and laundry facilities are all areas you can install travertine tile flooring.
However, keep in mind that travertine is related to both marble and limestone. As such the performance parameters and servicing requirements are essentially the same for all three. All three stones are similar in that they can all be scraped and etched. Therefore, before installing travertine floors, it is vital to have a thorough understanding of proper cleaning and care.
5). Limestone
Limestone tile is less common than marble or travertine, yet it is just as lovely and has its distinct features. Limestone is utilised as a road base, railway ballast, and mortar aggregate because of its durability. Moreover, it can withstand abrasion, heat, and pressure.
Limestone will need to be cared for and maintained in the same way that marble does. It should be put in areas where acidic foods and drinks will not be consumed in large quantities. That said, stay away from it in the kitchen, but it’s perfect for the washroom, sitting room, entryway, or outdoors.
6). Quartzite
This flooring material is perfect for wall veneers and decorative tiles, but it has recently gained popularity as a countertop material as well. It can resemble marble in appearance, but it has the durability, functionality, of granite. Lastly, it is easier to maintain than marble.
Finishes of Natural Stone Floor Tiles
- Polished Finish
Polished stone tile has a reflecting surface that is glossy and mirror-like. It has a nice appearance because the material’s colour and pattern are intense and vibrant. However, dust, smears, scratches, and abrasions will be visible on this type of finish. Lastly, the risk of slipping accidents is quite significant with such floors.
- Honed Finish
If you want a stone floor with a satin-smooth and matte feel, a honed finish would be perfect. There will be a tiny sheen to the floor, but it will not be shiny or reflecting. As a result, the colours are softer and earthier. After all, it lasts significantly longer than a polished surface and requires little, if any, refinishing.
- Tumbled Finish
In comparison to a honed finish, a tumbled finish is coarser and rougher. As such, it will not be fully flat and smooth. In addition, the margins of the tiles may be gently rounded or carved.
Tumbled marble tile is particularly popular, as it evokes an ancient, rustic feel. The polish is most commonly found on granite floors. Keeping a floor clean by mopping can be difficult and it is, therefore, better suited for outdoor spaces.
Cleaning Natural Stone Tile Do’s & Don’ts
The Do’s
- If necessary, use a high-quality stone sealer.
- Clean up spills as soon as possible.
- Floors should be swept and mopped regularly.
- For floor tiles, use a non-abrasive natural stone cleanser.
- Always rinse with clean water and completely dry the surface.
The Don’ts
- Never use lime juice, vinegar, or any other acid-based cleaning product.
- Avoid using any rough cleaning materials
- No vacuum cleaners
Final Thoughts
A space is only as beautiful as its floors. That said, it is always advisable to choose flooring materials that are not only durable but also appealing to the eye. Luckily, with the wide variety of stone floors available in the market, there is something for every space.
Quality Stone Cleaning Services by the Stone Restorer
While natural stone floorings are a perfect choice for both residential and commercial spaces, installing and cleaning them needs expertise. For that reason, you should only hire qualified stone experts like us to work on your floors. Not only are we experienced but we also offer competitive prices.
If you need to get your stone floors, walls, or benchtops restored in Gold Coast or Brisbane, you can put your trust in The Stone Restorer. As a renowned expert for many kinds of stone restoration, The Stone Restorer offers top of the line stone restoration work at affordable prices.
Give us a call today at 0414 469 301 or ask us for a fast free quote on your stone restoration project.
