Stone tile flooring brings a sense of luxury to your home. It can elevate the design of any room.
Stone, by nature, is incredibly durable. It’s also easy to clean.
Because natural stones vary, all tiles will look different. You’ll want to purchase more than you need for your project.
Durability
Stone tile is one of the most durable flooring options available. It resists cracking and stains well, making it ideal for high-traffic areas, including outdoor spaces. The durability of stone tile flooring makes it a great investment and will last longer than carpet or other flooring materials.
Unlike carpet, stone floor tiles do not hold dust, pet hair, or other allergens that can lead to health problems. Messes can be wiped up quickly, and the surface doesn’t require special cleaning products or intense scrubbing. Because of this, it’s a good option for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
Natural stone floors have a high aesthetic value that adds sophistication and elegance to any room. They also offer a timeless style that will never go out of fashion.
Whether you choose a natural or engineered product, your stone dealer can recommend the best type of stone to use for your flooring. Typically, unglazed tile is more porous and may stain, so it’s important to have these floors properly sealed right after they’re installed. Engineered stone, on the other hand, has a smoother finish and does not stain easily. It is also highly moisture resistant and pairs nicely with underfloor heating systems. This will make your floors warm and cozy underfoot during the day and comfortable in the evening.
Low Maintenance
With proper maintenance, stone floors can last a lifetime and are easier to clean than carpets. They also do not trap odors, mildew, or allergens.
Sweeping or vacuuming regularly is essential for removing abrasive materials such as dirt, sand, and pebbles. Placing doormats outside and inside the front doors and using area rugs to contain particles will help extend the life of your floor and minimize damage.
Regular mopping with a dry microfiber mop, warm water, and a pH-neutral cleaning solution will keep your stone tile looking great and reduce staining. Spills should be wiped up immediately. Acidic cleaners are not recommended for stone flooring as they can dull the surface of your tiles and leave a residue behind.
Because of the natural nature of the stone, some tiles may have color variances from piece to piece. This is a part of the beauty of stone tile flooring, making your floors unique and one-of-a-kind.
A stone tile floor can be very slippery when wet, so it is important to have a non-slip mat or rug by all exterior and interior entrances. Relocating furniture occasionally to distribute traffic patterns can also help reduce wear and tear.
Aesthetics
Stone floors offer the timeless, natural beauty that homeowners seek. The organic colors and textures add a sense of class to any room that is impossible to replicate with synthetic alternatives. Unlike manufactured tiles, no two stones are identical, so each floor is one-of-a-kind and will instantly elevate the space.
Most stone flooring types are durable enough to withstand high traffic, making them great for kitchens, mudrooms, and family bathrooms. Some varieties also resist stains and burns; when properly sealed, many can withstand the elements. Additionally, most stone floors can withstand radiant heat underfoot, making them warm and comfortable in winter.
The variety of color options for stone flooring makes it easy to find a style that complements your home. Marble floors are classic, while slate and travertine provide a rustic or contemporary feel. Some varieties are highly polished, while others are more rough and tumbled.
In addition to their aesthetic, most varieties of stone are eco-friendly and sourced from nature. They are available in various colors, and each piece is unique. They are a beautiful way to connect your living spaces with the outdoors, and their mountain-born qualities can give your home an energy-efficient advantage, absorbing heat during the day to lower heating costs.
Easy Cleaning
Stone tile flooring is easier to clean than carpet, requiring little more than regular water and a dust mop. Vacuuming is recommended as it removes dirt particles that a dust mop may not reach. If you have honed or slate finish stones, these tend to need more frequent cleaning due to their texture and the way they trap dirt – however, a good penetrating sealant will cut down this frequency greatly.
Once sealed, most stone floors are fairly resistant to staining. Having a bottle of stone-friendly cleaner at hand is a good idea for unexpected spills (like wine or coffee) that could mark the surface. Avoid using anything containing alkaline or acidic, as these can strip the protective sealant over time.
It is also important not to use excessive water on your stone floors – this can damage them over time. Stick to the recommended amount of water per mopping, usually around a pint per square foot. This will allow the stone to dry quickly, reducing the risk of mildew and bacteria growth. A closed-loop cotton string or micro-fiber mop that can be wrung out well is best. Do not use soap solutions or abrasive scouring pads, as these can damage the stone. Be sure to test any product on a small area of your floor before allowing it onto your tiles.
