Expert’s Guide to Buying Natural Stone

When it comes to deciding which natural stone is best for your project it is easy to become overwhelmed. There is a vast variety of natural stone available on the market, and knowing what to look for in these materials requires expertise and experience.

Our specialists have narrowed down and answered the most frequently asked questions surrounding natural stones so that you can make confident and informed decisions when selecting material for your next commercial or private project.

1 What type of stone?

For most people the look of a stone is their first consideration when making a selection. But in addition to the color, texture and style of the stone, certain qualities of the material can make it more suitable for certain projects.

2 What finish do I need?

Natural stone is manufactured to have various finishes to suit the needs of your design. A polished finish has a glossy texture that brings out the color of the stone, but has a slippery surface. Honed is matte finish with a softer texture and greater absorption, while a tumbled or flamed finish has a rougher texture and is best for outdoor use or anti-skid flooring.

3 How much maintenance will it take to upkeep?

Different stones have different maintenance needs. The amount of traffic, dirt, acidities and moisture your stone structure or design will encounter is an additional factor to aesthetics one must consider before deciding on a material.

4 How much will it cost?

The amount that you are willing to spend on your project will influence your selection of stone. If you are on a tighter budget you will most likely save on a stone that is quarried locally.

Talk to your supplier about which stones have to be imported in order to get a better understanding of your desired stone’s cost.

Understanding the key attributes of the most popular stone is the first step in selecting material for your project.

Let’s look at some of the most common types of natural stone:

Granite

Granite is an extremely strong material that is scratch-resistant, resilient and above all, beautifully elegant. It is a highly suitable material for most surfaces and finishes, and due to its durability it is also suitable for driveways and flooring in high traffic areas.

Marble

Marble is available in a wide variety of colors and mesmerizing vein patterns. It is a stone that is synonymous with high-end design and is an excellent material for flooring, furniture pieces and wall cladding. Marble is a highly porous material that is prone to staining and etching, making it a less ideal material for kitchen countertops.

Limestone

Limestone has a textured surface that is perfect for a more rustic design. Limestone is a bit less varied in colour, appearing naturally in an off-white hue, but can often be tinted by impurities in the stone.

Travertine

Travertine has a raw porous texture that is best suited for wall cladding and other wall accents, bathrooms and furniture pieces. It is an easier stone to maintain than marble or granite, requiring you to use less expensive products for its upkeep.

Call us today and we'll discuss the best course of action and most suitable materials for your design.