Deciding to use natural stone for your project is easy since this landscape material is durable, beautiful, and will make your property stand out. But choosing the right type of landscape stone and finish is a whole different story. Natural stone production differs from one quarry to the next.
So when shopping around for natural stones, make sure to ask the following questions to help educate yourself and ensure you select the right types of landscape stone for your particular project:
Natural stones are not created equally. Some natural stones are more porous than others. If a stone with a more porous surface comes into contact with acidic substances, it may become damaged and require cleaning & sealing of the surface.
So when you already have a stone in mind, make sure to consider where you&#;ll install or use it. For example, selecting a lighter coloured limestone is perfectly fine for an area with many trees and leaves, but it would be a good idea to seal the stone so it maintains its clean look. Our White Star granite, on the other hand, doesn&#;t need to be sealed and can be utilized in any residential or commercial project due to the high density and little water absorption in this white granite.
If you&#;ll use natural stones as tiles for your walls or floors, opt for 3/8 inch thick. The thickness you need for BBQs or outdoor kitchen countertops is usually 2 inches thick. On the other hand, natural stone pavers used for exterior applications are about 1 inch to 1.25 inches thick. For higher-end residential projects and commercial landscaping, many landscape architects will opt for using 2 inch thick natural stone pavers or flagstone, to add greater strength and stability for the overall project.
The finish on natural stones depends a lot on the application &#; interior or exterior &#; and also the type of wear and tear you expect to occur on the surface. Our specialty is outdoor landscape stone so we offer various finishes suitable for outdoor use. The most popular finishes for outdoor stone are natural or clefted, sandblasted, flamed, honed, tumbled, and antique-washed.
The finish can substantially change the look of the stone. For example, some of our granites and limestones come with flamed and brushed finishes, that have a unique and very clean, modern appearance. This heavy texture is achieved thanks to a combination of heat and brushing. A brushed granite can sometimes be far richer and darker in tone as well, such as our STONEarch Onyx Black, which is one of the darkest black granites on the market today and is often used as the best replacement for Cambrian Black.
The stone finish you choose will largely depend on your preference and taste unless safety is your main concern. In general, larger-sized tiles and those with a more polished finish tend to be more slippery when your shoes or feet are wet. If that&#;s the case, then opt for a finish with more texture. The most suitable stone finish for commercial landscape projects including hotels, plazas, condo terraces, and office buildings, is flamed or flamed and brushed.
Stones are natural materials. This means that their colours will vary. If consistency is worrying you, you can request multiple samples to get a sense of the variation in the stone. Also, take a look at our project gallery or visit our + square feet outdoor showroom which is the largest landscape stone showroom in Ontario.
For example, you may ask for 2-3 pieces of stone samples in a particular size. Doing so will allow you to see what you can expect to get in a standard pallet. Evaluate each paver, and if you notice that there&#;s a tremendous amount of variation in the stone&#;s colour range, then consider a different option that is more consistent or ask the supplier for a good alternative.
Selecting the right floor tiles for your home can be a daunting task, given the myriad of options available in the market. To ensure you make an informed decision, it&#;s essential to ask the right questions. Here are the **questions to ask when buying floor tiles** to help you choose the best tiles for your space.
What is the Tile Made Of?
Understanding the material composition of the tiles is crucial. Common materials include ceramic, porcelain, stone, and vinyl. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages:
&#; Ceramic: Affordable and versatile, suitable for low to moderate traffic areas.
&#; Porcelain: Durable and water-resistant, ideal for high traffic and wet areas.
&#; Stone: Natural and unique, great for a luxurious look but requires more maintenance.
&#; Vinyl: Budget-friendly and easy to install, suitable for all areas.
What is the Tile&#;s PEI Rating?
The PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating measures the tile&#;s hardness and its suitability for different areas of the home. It ranges from 1 to 5:
&#; PEI 1: Suitable for walls only.
&#; PEI 2: Ideal for light traffic residential areas.
&#; PEI 3: Suitable for moderate traffic residential areas.
&#; PEI 4: Appropriate for heavy traffic residential and light commercial areas.
&#; PEI 5: Suitable for heavy traffic commercial areas.
Is the Tile Slip-Resistant?
Slip resistance is an important factor, especially in areas prone to getting wet, like bathrooms and kitchens. Check the tile&#;s slip-resistance rating, often indicated as a Coefficient of Friction (COF). A higher COF means better slip resistance.
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What is the Tile&#;s Water Absorption Rate?
For areas exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, it&#;s crucial to select tiles with a low water absorption rate. Porcelain tiles, for example, have a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%, making them highly suitable for wet areas.
How to Select Tiles for Home in India?
When buying floor tiles in India, consider the local climate and the specific needs of your home. For instance, in hot and humid regions, tiles that stay cool and resist moisture are preferable. Additionally, think about maintenance requirements and durability based on your household&#;s activity level.
How to Choose Floor Tile Color?
The color of the floor tiles can significantly impact the overall look and feel of a room. Here are some tips on how to choose floor tile color:
&#; Light Colors: Make small spaces appear larger and brighter.
&#; Dark Colors: Hide dirt and stains better, creating a cozy and elegant look.
&#; Neutral Colors: Versatile and timeless, blend well with any decor.
&#; Bold Colors: Add a statement and personality to a room but may be harder to match with other elements.
How to Choose Tile Colors for Living Room?
When selecting tile colors for your living room, consider the following factors:
&#; Room Size: Light-colored tiles can make a small living room feel more spacious, while dark tiles can add warmth and intimacy to a large room.
&#; Natural Light: Rooms with abundant natural light can handle darker tiles, while rooms with limited light benefit from lighter shades.
&#; Existing Decor: Choose a tile color that complements your existing furniture, wall colors, and overall decor theme.
&#; Personal Preference: Ultimately, your taste and style should guide your choice. Select a color that you love and that suits your lifestyle.
What is the Tile&#;s Maintenance Requirement?
Different tiles have different maintenance needs. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are relatively low-maintenance, while natural stone tiles may require regular sealing and special cleaning products. Consider your willingness and ability to maintain the tiles when making your decision.
What is the Total Cost?
Beyond the price per square foot, consider additional costs such as installation, adhesive, grout, and underlayment. Ask about any potential hidden fees to get a clear picture of the total cost.
Are There Samples Available?
Before making a final decision, ask for samples of the tiles you are considering. This allows you to see how the tiles look in your space and under your lighting conditions. It also helps you compare different options side by side.
What is the Return Policy?
Understand the store&#;s return policy in case you need to return or exchange the tiles. This is especially important if you are buying a large quantity.
Conclusion
Asking the right questions when buying floor tiles can help you make a well-informed decision that meets your aesthetic and functional needs. By considering factors such as material, PEI rating, slip resistance, and color, you can select the perfect tiles for your home.
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