Monday, 18 July 2016

How to Select the Correct Type of Natural Stone for Your Special Requirement


Important points you should keep in mind while selecting marble or other natural stone for your home furnishings are: Location, Structure, Colour, Pattern, Finish, Quality & Quantity, and Maintenance.

Location:

Select the natural stone as per the area where you'll use it. The type of stone may vary if you’re purchasing it for indoors or outdoors; wet area or dry area; exposed to the build up of soap scum, or acidic substances etc. The location and exposure will determine which stone to choose and what maintenance method it needs. 

Kitchen areas are subject to constant spillage of acidic substances so they require stone that is hardwearing and resistant to absorption. Marble will etch with acidic substances, which are often found in the kitchen. Granite is scratch and heat resistant, virtually non-absorbent once sealed, resistant to most chemicals and a better choice for the kitchen than marble and limestone.

Bathroom areas are subject to the build up of soap scum, oils, dirt and mineral deposits from water so they require a natural stone that is fairly resistant to absorption and can be easily cleaned. Smooth surfaces such as polished marble, limestone or granite are ideal for bathroom. The size of the tile is also important, particularly where drains are located. Small tiles are more easily laid when the fall towards the drain is steep.

Foyers, elevators, stairs and showrooms are subject to constant foot traffic but polished marble, granite or terrazzo will still work well in these areas with regular maintenance.

Outdoor areas will weather if exposed to constant sun, rain, pollution and chemically treated pool water so a stone that wears well, is slip resistant and has a matt finish such as sandstone is ideal.

Structure:

Structure and Design of the building will determine which stone surface to use as the weight of the stone must match with the architectural design.

Colour of Natural Stone:

You can find very many varieties of colour patterns in almost all the types of stones. Slate is usually dark in colour, granite colours vary from beige to black, marble has variations from white to black, onyx comes in a variety of beautiful translucent light to dark colours, where as sandstone and limestone are usually light coloured. 

Stone Maintenance:

Maintenance is an important consideration, as it will determine the true cost of the stone. If the correct stone is chosen with an appropriate finish, maintenance will be manageable and affordable. 

The Marble Man team with over 24 years of collective experience in the field of stone care and maintenance can guide you how to select the correct stone for your home or business. Call a Marble Man technician today on 1300 627 626 for a free stone restoration quote QLD and NSW, Australia.

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