How to Choose the Perfect Stone Tile for Your Remodel Project

Marble

Marble stone tile flooring is popular for its durability and elegant appearance. It is easy to clean and maintain, and its natural variations in color and pattern give it a unique, luxurious look. 

However, installing it can be expensive, slippery when wet, and prone to scratching and staining. When properly installed, though, marble flooring gives any space a timeless and sophisticated feel that will impress.

Granite

Granite stone tile flooring is a durable and popular option made from, well, natural granite stone. 

The pros of using this flooring include its durability and resistance to scratches and moisture. The cons are that it is quite heavy and can be difficult to install, as well as being more expensive than other options. 

As with marble flooring, when installed, granite stone tile flooring looks elegant and adds a natural touch to any room. Note that we’re not talking about quartz flooring here, though. Many customers seem to get them confused.

Travertine

Travertine is a natural stone tile with a warm, rustic look in various earthy colors. It’s durable and easy to maintain, but it can be pricey and susceptible to scratches and staining if not sealed properly.

Slate

Slate comes in various colors, textures, and sizes, giving it a unique and rustic look. Pros include resistance to water, stains, and scratches, whereas cons include its natural unevenness and need for regular maintenance.

Limestone

Finally, limestone is typically light-colored, with various textures available, including honed or natural split surfaces. 

Limestone flooring is easy to clean and naturally slip-resistant, but it can be stained and scratched easily. Overall, its classic appearance lends an air of sophistication to any space.

Structural Requirements

Choosing the right type of stone tile flooring for your home is more than just about aesthetics. It's essential to consider structural requirements before deciding on a particular type. 

Stone floors are significantly heavier than other types of flooring, so it's crucial to ensure that your home can support the additional weight. 

You may need to reinforce your undersized floor joists or add appropriate underlayment material, which can add extra costs to your project. Planning will help you avoid additional expenses and ensure a successful installation.

Usage

It is important to carefully consider the usage of stone tile flooring before deciding what type to use in your home. Different stones have distinct strengths and weaknesses, making them better or worse suited for different conditions and applications.

For instance, some stones are more resistant to scratches and wear damage, while others are more suitable for wet locations. Additionally, some may require more care depending on the environment they are subjected to. 

Maintenance

When selecting stone tile flooring for your home, it's essential to factor in flooring maintenance requirements. Most stone floors need some maintenance and are prone to staining. While we offer expert sealing, cleaning, and polishing services, knowing how often you will need those services before investing in a specific type of tile is helpful.

Sedimentary types, in particular, require periodic sealer applications, while igneous and composite types may require minimal sealing. Harsh chemicals should be avoided while cleaning. The point is that knowing the maintenance needs beforehand eliminates any undesirable surprises.

Resale Value

Finally, consider the stone's potential resale value. Stone flooring can typically add significant value to a property. So ensure you understand the local real estate market when making your decision.

Certain types or grades of stone may have a greater impact on the value in that area than others. It’s best to choose high-quality stone flooring that will last. If possible, choose one that can be easily replaced if needed.