Natural stones are the blessing of Mother Nature. You bring natural beauty by using natural stones in your spaces in & outside of the home. Natural stones are soothing eyes upon looking at it, relaxing upon touching, and energizing while living with it.
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Of course, the right decoration and utility come with the right selection of stones. However, out of dozens of different stones types, it is confusing to choose the right type of stones in the right combination for homeowners. It is where they need expert consultancy, and we are aiming to provide the same here in our blogs.
In due course, we have given you some outlines in the posts “12 Things to Consider When Choosing Natural Stones for Your Home” and “Things to Consider While Buy Natural Stones – Shopping Guide” as well as other similar blogs. Today, we are going to give you at least 15 useful tips to select the right natural stone for your construction projects.
At first glance, the tip seems weird for an ordinary homeowner but may prove highly useful in making a smart decision from a technical point of view. Geologists usually classify the natural rock formation in three different processes.
You can find more details in “How Natural Stone is Made – All You Need to Know” post. When you know the origin, you will have insights about the content of the natural rocks and properties of the natural stones.
However, in general terms, we can classify stones as siliceous stones and calcareous stones. It saves us from complicated technical classification during practical applications. The construction industry professionals usually classify natural stones into two major segments based on the predominance of the content. Those are siliceous stones and calcareous stones.
Siliceous stones have silica/sand in a high percentage of all content types. Thanks to the presence of quartz and other minerals, siliceous stones are stunning in look. Variations in colors, grains, veins, and patterns are enriching them a lot. High strength due to hardness, density, and other durability factors render them the best choice for exterior applications.
Calcareous stones are rich in calcites/calcium compounds. They also consist of organic and inorganic substances, which they acquired during the rock formation process like sedimentation.
Thereby, they are porous and relatively soft on working in the construction process. Moreover, marbles like stones are rich in color variations, grains, veins, and exhibiting different patterns. So, they are the best candidates for interior decoration in different areas, including floors, walls, columns, and sills.
However, marbles are easily getting stains and acid-sensitive. So, it has limited usage in the kitchen like areas. Marbles also demand care and regular maintenance against siliceous stones.
Commercially available natural stones have different forms. For the sake of ease, we can segregate stones into two major forms: whole stones & crushed stones.
Nature breaks the stones with climatic factors. By natural means like water and wind, natural transportation occurs. Thus, naturally crushed stones form.
You must select the types of natural stones based on the areas where you want to install them. For instance,
Softer and calcareous types of stones are the best candidates for interior applications.
Most of the siliceous and rough & tough types of stones can prove a superior choice for outdoor and landscaping applications.
The stone surface finishing treatments are determining the utility of the stones. Polished and glossy stone texture is appropriate in a living room like a low utility, but most impactful areas to impress your guests or home visitors.
Coarse surface treatments are good to go for slip prone areas like wet places and outdoor spaces to create anti-skid surface texture. However, you must know the basic types of natural stone finishes, such as:
Take the help of stone consultancy to get the right selection for each area individually.
Colors have direct impacts on the human psyche and practical utility of the space. For instance,
The brighter colors reflect the light rays more than darker colors. It makes the ambiance vibrant and energetic. The bright ambiance creates a spatial impression and lets us feel the space larger than the real psychologically. The outdoor kitchen, patio, and decks are places where brighter colors suit the most.
Various countertops, floors, and walls in high utility areas like kitchen, bath, and washrooms are prone to various staining. Spills, dirt, and chemical contaminations are high in these utility areas. If we use dark colors in the stone installation, it can hide stains, watermarks, fingerprints, and dirt to some extent. So, try to set dark-colored stones in such areas.
Stones get damages due to various impacts like hit by objects, high foot traffic, structural loads, earthquake-like natural disasters, and accidental or intentional damages by humans.
Most outdoor areas, façade, living room, kitchen, and playing rooms for children are receiving different kinds of impacts more often than rests of spaces. Therefore, you must look at stones with high strength and durability properties to lay in such areas.
Most of the interior areas have fewer impacts of different climatic factors, but outdoor spaces have high chances. The cold, heat, humidity, water, sunrays, frost/thaw cycle, and similar climatic factors directly or indirectly affect the lifecycle of the natural stone and its appearance.
You must consider these climatic factors based on the weather in your region while making the stone selections for different areas. Many stone types are harder and studier than soft stone types, which can be the right choice for outdoor areas and semi-open areas in your home.
Most of the siliceous stones except slates are sturdy to withstand the climatic changes. Similarly, limestone and travertine like calcareous stones can prove the choice for exterior applications besides the internal uses.
Excessive humidity and water can create corrosion as well as fade the stone appearance.
Acid rains and acidic chemicals can damage the stones more in the case of calcareous stones and less in siliceous stones.
Sewage, soaps, and carbonation bring drastic pH fluctuation and damage the stones permanently. So, select the appropriate stone types considering such chemical effects and try to apply the right sealing or coating treatment as a preventative measure.
Colors, textures, and patterns are components of the stone design theme running across your property. Let interior & exterior designers or architects to decide these factors while making the selection for buying natural stones.
We already know about grains, veins, and surface patterns existing in the natural rocks. We know how different types of cuts and surface treatments can bring all to make stones appealing. These all create an aesthetic appeal when you use the right combination of natural stones in your living spaces.
Aesthetic appeal and durability of natural stone are the merits of overall home value. If you have invested enough and smartly, you can get high values of your property with the pace of time.
Compressive strength, flexural strength, hardness, modulus of rupture, specific gravity, density, porosity/absorption, and abrasion resistance are metrics of durability. Such technical knowledge can help you to make the right selection of stones for you or your stone consultants.
There are simple tests to measure the durability of natural stones, and you can apply with simple tools or consult the team at World of Stones USA to help you out in making the right choice for the durable stone types for you.
Home maintenance includes regular removal of dust & dirt through different methods of cleaning, sealing or coating the stone surfaces, and replacement of damaged stone pieces.
Stone finishes determine the ease of sweeping and washing while chemical sealing eases the overall cleaning as well as stain removal. Calcareous stones are acid sensitive while siliceous stones can tolerate pH fluctuations to some extent.
Similarly, outdoor paving and other stone applications demand durable types of stones, and they also need frequent maintenance programs to keep look-n-feel intact. In short, you have to prepare your home maintenance program keeping the natural stone types used in your spaces, and expert advice can make a lot of difference.
The budget is the prime priority in each construction project. Therefore, we used certainly ask about the budget of natural stone installations and the cost of stone products. Due to the improved scenario of market and technologies, we can get natural stones at highly competitive rates against other construction materials.
We have multiple choices to make within a budget. It means you have to look at other pros and cons of selected natural stones and should make up your mind. For instance, white fantasy granites are the cheaper choice when marble proves the softer choice instead of costly quartzite. You can get the best of both worlds, sturdy stones like quartzite, and the stunning beauty of marble!
World of Stones USA is offering free of charge stone consulting services to help newbies, and even seasoned contractors find some complexities of large project confusing. Our stone experts can weigh the pros and cons of each stone type and can suggest the best products for your projects.
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Natural stone has an inherent beauty that can elevate the aesthetics of your home. Whether you’re planning to incorporate it into your kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, flooring, or other locations, selecting the right natural stone is crucial to achieving the desired look and feel.
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With a wide range of natural stone options available, from granite to marble, limestone to slate, making the right choice can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect natural stone for your home.
Before delving into the tips for selecting the right natural stone for your home, it’s essential to understand the characteristics and properties of different natural stones.
Each type of natural stone has its unique qualities that can influence your decision. Here are some key things to consider:
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some practical tips for choosing the right natural stone for the countertops or vanities in your home.
Before selecting a natural stone, take a close look at your home’s existing theme and decor. Are you aiming for a contemporary, rustic, or traditional style? The natural stone you choose should harmonize with the overall design concept. For instance, if you have a modern kitchen with sleek cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, a dark granite countertop with a polished finish can create a stunning contrast and focal point.
Conversely, if you have a more rustic or farmhouse-inspired interior, a honed limestone or soapstone countertop with a warm color tone may complement the cozy and inviting atmosphere. The key is to choose a natural stone that enhances your home’s style and doesn’t clash with it.
Natural stone has the power to set the mood and ambiance of a space. Consider the emotional impact you want to achieve in each room. For instance, if you’re designing a spa-like bathroom retreat, a soft and calming marble with subtle veining can evoke a sense of tranquility and luxury.
On the other hand, if you want your kitchen to exude warmth and comfort, selecting a natural stone with warm earthy tones, such as beige or brown, can contribute to a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Neutral tones, such as beige and gray, can add a sense of elegance and coziness to your space.
Contrast plays a significant role in the visual appeal of your home’s interior. The choice of natural stone can either create a striking contrast or provide a subtle blend with the surrounding elements.
For instance, if you have dark cabinetry and flooring, opting for a light-colored marble or quartzite countertop can create a visually pleasing contrast that draws the eye.
Conversely, if you prefer a more cohesive and harmonious look, selecting a natural stone that closely matches the color of your cabinets or flooring can create a seamless flow in your space. Keep in mind that the level of contrast you choose can dramatically impact the overall aesthetic of your home.
There should be some level of contrast if you have visually complex pieces. If your flooring, cabinets, walls, and kitchen countertops are all visually complex and intricate, the room can become overwhelming and dizzying. It’s often best to limit how many visually complex pieces there are to give them a little “white space” and better display their appearances.
Natural stone options for home design are available in a wide range of colors, each with its own unique charm. To make an informed decision, explore various natural stone color families, including:
Take into account the existing colors in your home and select a natural stone color that complements or enhances its overall palette.
Many homeowners fail to take into account the lighting in their space. They look at stone samples in dim warehouses or home improvement depots and make their decisions based on other samples and paint colors they gathered and inspected in dim storelight.
It is essential to take samples home and look at them in the light of the room they will be in. Remember that lighter tones will brighten a room, and darker shades may require more or brighter lighting to be installed.
Additionally, natural light can significantly impact the appearance of natural stone. The same stone may look different in a room with abundant natural light compared to one with limited light. When choosing a natural stone, consider the amount of natural light in the space where it will be installed.
If your room receives plenty of sunlight, a bold, bright-colored stone can shine and exhibit its beauty more vividly. In contrast, in rooms with limited natural light, darker stones may appear richer and more inviting. Pay attention to how the stone interacts with the available light to ensure it meets your expectations.
Durability and maintenance are crucial factors when selecting natural stone for your home. Some stones, like granite and quartzite, are highly durable and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. They are ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops.
On the other hand, softer stones like marble and limestone may require more delicate handling and regular sealing to prevent staining and etching. Assess your lifestyle and willingness to invest time and effort in maintenance when choosing a natural stone.
Remember that proper care and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your natural stone and keep it looking pristine for years to come.
Here are six popular types of natural stone for your home.
Color Tones: Granite is known for its wide range of colors, from cool blues and greens to warm browns and reds. It can also have striking patterns and veining that add visual interest.
Durability: Granite is one of the most durable natural stones available. It’s highly resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, making it an excellent natural stone choice for kitchen countertops.
Maintenance: While granite is relatively low maintenance, it benefits from regular sealing to prevent staining. Routine cleaning with Rock Doctor’s Granite & Quartz Cleaner is usually sufficient to keep it looking pristine.
Color Tones: Marble is famous for its luxurious and classic appearance. It often comes in shades of white, gray, beige, and black, with beautiful veining that can vary in color from gold to red.
Durability: Marble is softer than granite, making it more susceptible to scratching and etching from acidic substances. It’s best suited for low-traffic areas like bathroom vanities and fireplace surrounds.
Maintenance: Marble requires more maintenance than some other natural stones. Marble should be sealed regularly to protect against stains and spills and should be cleaned promptly to prevent etching.
Color Tones: Quartzite can mimic the appearance of marble with its white and gray tones, but it also comes in a variety of other colors, including shades of pink, green, and blue.
Durability: Quartzite is exceptionally durable, even more so than granite. It is highly resistant to scratches, heat, and stains, making it an excellent choice for both kitchen and bathroom applications.
Maintenance: Quartzite is relatively low-maintenance, requiring periodic sealing with Rock Doctor’s Stone Sealer to enhance stain resistance. Regular cleaning with Rock Doctor’s Granite & Quartz Cleaner is typically sufficient.
Color Tones: Limestone is known for its soft, muted colors, such as beige, cream, and light gray. It has a gentle, earthy appearance.
Durability: Limestone is softer than granite and quartzite, making it more susceptible to scratching and staining. It’s best suited for low-traffic areas like bathroom floors and walls.
Maintenance: Limestone requires regular sealing to protect against stains. It’s essential to avoid acidic cleaning products, as they can damage the stone’s surface. Use a neutral cleaner like Rock Doctor’s Natural Stone Cleaner to avoid damage.
Color Tones: Slate is often associated with deep, rich tones like dark gray, black, green, and purple. It has a natural, rustic appearance.
Durability: Slate is a durable natural stone that can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it an excellent natural stone choice for flooring or home exteriors.
Maintenance: Slate is relatively low-maintenance and typically doesn’t require sealing. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are usually sufficient to keep it clean.
Color Tones: Soapstone is known for its distinctive solid black or greenish-gray color. It often darkens over time and develops a natural patina.
Durability: Soapstone is a dense and durable stone that is resistant to heat and stains. It’s commonly used for kitchen countertops and sinks.
Maintenance: Soapstone is relatively low-maintenance and doesn’t require sealing. It can be oiled to enhance its appearance and hide surface scratches.
Understanding the characteristics of these different natural stones, including their typical color tones, durability, and maintenance requirements, will help you make an informed decision based on your design preferences and practical needs. Whether you prioritize durability, aesthetic appeal, or a balance of both, there’s a natural stone that’s perfect for your home.
In conclusion, choosing the right natural stone for your home is a decision that should be made with careful consideration of your design preferences, the ambiance you want to create, and practical factors like durability and maintenance. By taking these tips into account and exploring the diverse natural stone options available, you can transform your living area into a stunning and inviting space that reflects your unique style and personality.
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