Natural Stone
Natural stone refers to various types of stone that are quarried from the Earth and used for various construction and decorative purposes. There are many different types of natural stone, each with its own unique characteristics. Some common types of natural stone include:
• Granite: Known for its durability and variety of colors, granite is often used for countertops,
flooring, and exterior cladding.
• Marble: Marble is a luxurious and elegant stone often used in sculptures, flooring, and
countertops. It has distinctive veining patterns.
• Slate: Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock that is commonly used for roofing, flooring, and
outdoor applications due to its resistance to weathering.
• Limestone: Limestone is a sedimentary rock that comes in a variety of colors and is used for
flooring, countertops, and architectural elements.
• Travertine: This type of limestone is characterized by its porous surface and is commonly used in
flooring and as a building material.
• Onyx: Onyx is a form of chalcedony, which is a type of microcrystalline quartz. It is formed in
caves as stalactites and stalagmites, creating bands of various colors.
• Quartzite: Quartzite is a hard, metamorphic rock that is similar in appearance to marble but has
the durability of granite. It's often used for countertops.
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3 Steps to Discover Your Perfect Natural Stone Statement
Step
01
Understand the Different Types of Natural Stones
Before making your choice, it is essential to understand the different types of natural stones available. There are multiple types including marble, granite, quartzite, onyx, slate, limestone and others. Each of these contain unique features, strengths, and weaknesses. For instance, granite is very durable and perfect for high-traffic areas, while marble provides a sophisticated and polished look. Research thoroughly to understand what is best for your need.
Step
02
Consider Your Space and Requirement
Consider the area where you want to place the stone. If it’s an area that experiences high footfall, choose durable stones like granite. For spaces that require a luxurious touch, marble would be an excellent choice. The choice of stone should also match the color, theme, and decor of your room. You should also consider your budget, maintenance, and durability needs in making your decision.
Step
03
Consult with a Professional
After collecting the necessary information and aligning it with your room elements, seek the expert opinion of a professional stonemason, architect, or interior designer. They can provide an expert opinion on the stone’s compatibility with your space and its aesthetic. They can highlight potential challenges with your chosen stone and propose adequate solutions or alternatives. Enlisting professional help from Elements Room® can bring clarity to the process and achieve the winning balance of aesthetics, function, and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Natural Stone
1. What are natural stones?
Natural stones are stones that are not manufactured or processed. They come directly from the earth, making each piece unique. Some examples include granite, marble, limestone, slate, and quartzite.
2. How long can natural stones last?
If properly cared for, natural stones can last for decades. Their longevity is one of the reasons for their popularity in construction and interior design.
3. What is the best way to clean natural stones?
The best way to clean natural stones is using a soft, damp cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stones. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the natural stones.
4. Can I use natural stones for my kitchen countertops?
Yes, natural stones like granite and quartzite are great options for kitchen countertops because of their durability and heat resistance.
5. How are natural stones priced?
The pricing of natural stones depends on several factors like rarity, quality, size and thickness, and the cost of extraction and transportation.
6. Are natural stones good for the environment?
Since natural stones are not manufactured, they require less energy to produce compared to engineered stones. However, quarrying and transportation of stones can impact the environment.
7. Do natural stones increase the value of my home?
Yes, natural stone finishes are often sought-after by home buyers because of their aesthetic appeal and durability, potentially raising the value of your home.