Stone Tile Flooring Buying Guide

Stone flooring is extremely durable, especially when compared to other flooring options. It requires less maintenance to look good and will last longer in almost any condition. Stone can be one of the most expensive flooring options you can choose, but not only will it enhance the beauty of your home, it will increase the value of your property as well. So, like hardwood, if you can afford it, it's worth every penny.

Slate, marble, travertine, limestone and sandstone are just a few examples of stone commonly used for flooring; most are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and finishes offering great design flexibility. Mixing types of stones, as well as finishes and sizes, allows you to create your own unique floor design.

Because stone is a natural material, it's important to understand that no two pieces will look exactly alike. If you're concerned about color and pattern consistency, you may want to consider ceramic or porcelain tiles that look like stone instead.

The finish on stone tiles is of considerable importance when choosing stone flooring. You wouldn't want to install a highly-polished marble floor in a beach house where sand and grit will eventually dull it down. In most cases, a matte or honed finish is preferred because it shows less in terms of scratches and scuffs and because it's more slip resistant. In less trafficked areas, you can use polished or consider mixing polished with honed for a distinctive look.

Before making any purchases, remember that different stones and finishes have different care and maintenance requirements; for example, a polished marble surface will show scratches and scuffs much more readily than a tumbled one.

Costs

Pricing for stone tile floors depends on the type of stone you choose. Stone tile can cost as little as $4 per square foot and as much as $20 per square foot or more. Installation costs will vary depending on a number of factors including geographic location, the size and type of tile, and the complexity of the layout.

For more information and descriptions of the different types of natural stone, as well as detailed maintenance information, visit the Marble Institute of America.