Natural stone tile brings a luxurious feel to any home, boosts its value, and is timeless. However, it is also quite expensive and requires regular maintenance.
This article will help you decide which stone tile will work best for your home, from marble to travertine and slate to granite. This guide will cover essential questions concerning durability, style, and cost.
Durability
One critical benefit of stone tile is its superior durability compared to other construction materials. This indicates that your new flooring will withstand abrasion and wear better than other materials, making it a wise choice for high-traffic areas of your home, such as the kitchen and bathroom.
However, regarding durability, not all stone tiles are created alike. Choose a product with a wear and break rating of at least four from the PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) if you want something robust. It would be beneficial to consider your stone tile’s physical characteristics.
For example, natural stone has a porous surface that can absorb liquids. This makes it essential to reseal your stone tile flooring regularly. Additionally, some types of stone, such as limestone and travertine, may be slippery in wet conditions, so they’re unsuitable for bathrooms or pool decks.
On the other hand, some porcelain tile has a stone look and feel without being porous or slippery. This is an excellent option for high-traffic areas of your home, especially if you’re concerned about slip-and-fall accidents.
Style
The stone tile flooring is essential because the material will be integral to your home’s design. Tile has many colors, patterns, and textures that fit any design aesthetic.
Natural stone tiles can add an elegant, luxurious feel to any space and come in various shapes and sizes. While it’s not recommended to sacrifice design for durability when selecting a tile, you want to ensure that your flooring or countertops will also be functional.
One way to achieve both is by choosing a tile with a higher PEI rating (Porosity Equivalency Index). This rating indicates how much wear and tear the surface can take before it begins to crack or chip. Tiles with a higher PEI rating are better suited for high-traffic areas, while those with lower ratings should be used in less frequented spaces.
Another great option is to select a stone with a textured finish, such as tumbled, leathered, or bush-hammered. These finishes hide scratches, nicks, and fingerprints better than smooth surfaces. They also give the room depth and dimension, making them perfect for backsplashes, fireplaces, or exteriors. However, if you choose a textured stone, remember it must be resealed more frequently than smoother options.
Aesthetics
In addition to being durable and functional, stone tile can add a bold aesthetic and unique design to any space. Many homeowners and interior designers who want to upgrade their homes frequently choose it because of the range of colors, textures, patterns, and designs available. With so many alternatives, it’s critical to comprehend the fundamentals of each sort of tile before determining which one is best for you.
The surface texture is the first to consider when selecting a stone tile. A polished finish is a popular choice for natural stone tile, as it creates a sleek and elegant look and helps showcase the stone’s intricate details and color variations. However, it’s less slip-resistant than a matte or honed finish, so that it may be less suitable for flooring areas subject to water or other slippery materials.
Another consideration is the maintenance required for your desired style of stone tile. Some types of natural stone are more porous than others, requiring regular upkeep to prevent staining and scratching. Travertine and limestone are two naturally porous stones that must be sealed regularly. Additionally, natural stone tile must be cleaned with pH-neutral cleaners to avoid damaging the sealant and causing discoloration.
Cost
The time and effort it takes to install stone tile will determine its final cost. The type of stone tile you choose also plays into the price. Natural stones like marble and granite are more expensive than ceramic or porcelain. The reason is that they are challenging to work with and need more specialized equipment and knowledge. Additionally, compared to other tile varieties, they are stronger and can take more significant wear and tear.
Due to its distinctive texture and earthy tone, travertine is a preferred alternative. It must be sealed to prevent stains because it is porous. Travertine is typically priced at $8-$33 per square foot.
Limestone is a medium-soft stone that can be used for floors and walls. It is a good choice for those looking for a neutral color and offers a unique texture that can work well with many different design styles. Limestone is often priced at $9-$27 per square foot.
Pebble tile is another unique option and creates a stunning, eye-catching floor. It is a textured natural stone and features small rounded pebbles adhered to a mesh backing. Pebble tiles are typically priced at $16-$30 per square foot.