Natural Stone

When choosing the flooring materials to use throughout your home, there are several factors to consider. The color of the material is often important as homeowners strive to make a cohesive design throughout their home. The durability of the material is also important, as well as the level of maintenance required. A homeowner may opt for a natural stone because of its appearance, durability, low maintenance level or personal preference. Each stone has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages, and many options are available to choose from.

Decorative Uses for Stone

Stone can be used for a variety of purposes throughout the home. A stone floor can add an elegant layer to the home. Stone fireplaces create elegant focal points throughout the home. The stone may be used in a slab version on top of counters. They can also serve as decorative backsplashes throughout the home.

Types of Stone

Many types of stone occur naturally and are quarried from the earth. Some of the most popular stones that are natural and used in home decor are listed here:

Limestone

Limestone is a durable stone that features neutral colors, such as cream, beige, gold and blue gray. It forms when calcium-based sediment and organic materials form together over time. This stone often features thin veins and the stone can be carved into intricate carvings for a unique appearance.

Limestone is commonly featured in European designs. It is available as a slab, tile and trim.

Granite

Granite is a highly durable material and the hardest material available for countertops. It is comprised of quartz, feldspar, mica and other materials. It is also difficult to scratch, resistant to burns and resistant to bacteria, making it a popular choice for kitchens.

Hundreds of color and texture options are available with granite, including shiny, polished surfaces. Granite is available in slab and tile forms in varying thicknesses.

Travertine

Travertine is a beautiful soft-colored stone. Crafted of travertine, the Colosseum perfectly represents the elegance and durability of this stone. Travertine is not available in all locations and tends to form in areas where water is found, such as near hot springs.

Travertine has small cavities that are formed when natural gases escape through the stone. The stone commonly have unique swirls of color that comprise the stone. The stone's appearance is either a pattern that looks like clouds or a vein cut. Travertine is available in cream, gold, brown and gray.

It is commonly used as a flooring surface and for bathroom projects. Travertine is available in slab and tile form. It is also available in trim and as part of a mosaic that is used for backsplashes and shower trim.

Marble

Marble features a distinctive veining in it that adds to its elegant appearance. Marble is composed of calcite and is a hard stone. However, it is not as hard as other stones such as granite.

It is more susceptible to damage than some other stones, including scratching, staining and etching by acid. Although white is a popular color for marble, it is actually available in a wide array of colors. It can be polished or honed. Marble is available in slab, tile and trim forms.

Slate

Slate has become much more popular in the last few years. It is a durable hard stone that is more economical than other types of stone.

Neutral and colored varieties are available in slab, tile and mosaic forms. Black, charcoal, gray, brown, red, green and copper are a few of the common colors that the stone appears in.

Slate is slip-resistant, but it may be prone to breaking in cold climates. It is also susceptible to scratching.

Natural Stone comes in a variety of colors and textures, but all can add an elegant addition to any home.