Must Know Answers About Natural Stone

Q. 1. Where can you use natural stones in your home?

A. Natural stones can be used in all parts of the home. You can find different colors and finishes of this stone. If you would collect the information on the application and finishes of stones then you would be able to select the best stone that is suited for your home.

Q. 2. What are the different finishes found in natural stone?

A. Some of the widely used options for natural stones are

Polished - Stone having high gloss surfaces.
Brushed – Wire brushed or acid brushed surface to give smooth texture surface.
Honed – Stones with unpolished surfaces and squared edges.
Tumbled – Stones which are slightly tumbled to get rounded edges. These stones are not smooth in their texture.
Antique Tumbled – Stones with medium tumble surfaces and edges. They can impart a rustic look.
Distressed or Cobbled – Highly tumbled surfaces and edges that can give an ancient or aged look.
Flamed – Blow torched stones for surfaces that have a rough texture.

Q.3 Does natural stone get stained?

A. Yes natural stones can get stained and so it is essential that you perfectly maintain them. Any natural stone can get etched or stained. Granite, which is the hardest building material, can also get stained if not maintained properly. Sealers increase the stain resisting capacity but do not prevent staining.

Q. 4. Is the installation of stone costly or more difficult than ceramic tiles?

A. Yes, it is more difficult to install stones as compared to ceramic tiles. It depends on the type of stone that a person would use for his house. The cost involved in laying natural stones or ceramic tiles do not vary a lot. There can, however, be some differences due to the difference of time involved to lay these stones. The cost of installing stone or ceramic tiles sometime depends on the installer.

Q. 5. Is it possible to mix and match stone design with other materials used in the house?

A. Yes, you can mix or use stones with other building materials. There are endless possibilities. You can use stone with terracotta, glass, porcelain, ceramic or anything of your choice to increase the beauty of your house. To increase the aesthetic value of your house you can also mix different types of stones. This can create a wonderful and unique ambience for your house.

Q. 6. What should be the size of the grout joints?

A. The size of the grout joints is dependent on individual taste and can vary up to that. Someone who does not want to have numerous grout joints can opt for honed stones. But a homeowner who wants to have more grout joints can opt for grid pattern or grout.

Q. 7. What should be the best size of stone tiles?

A. The size of stone tiles depends on area size and project. Someone who wants to make a small area appear as a big area can use large tiles. Experienced home remodeling personnel can help you get the best sized tiles for your project. He can also suggest you the best pattern that you can use for your house.