There are some key factors worth considering when deciding if stone floors are right for you. We have pulled together some of the main benefits of stone flooring as well as differences in types of stone floors so you can be confident you are making the right choice.
Stone floors are durable
When installed by professionals, stone tile can easily stand the test of time. Even in heavy-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and guest bathrooms, stone remains moisture-resistant, stain-resistant, and scratch resistant for years. The trick is to make sure your floors are properly sealed upon installation. Stone is porous, so using a sealant will ensure your stone tiles, no matter the type, are protected from the damaging effects of excessive moisture and dirt.To further minimize wear and tear on your floors, you can opt to reseal your floors to maintain that “newly renovated” look. How often you’ll have to do this depends on the amount of traffic and how frequently you clean. However, even heavily used floors will only need a touch-up every few years.
Stone floors are easy to clean
Not many people know how to clean stone floors, but the good news is it’s actually incredibly easy. Simply run a vacuum or broom over your floors to remove any loose dirt and debris, then follow with a microfiber mop and some warm, soapy water. You’ll notice stone air dries quickly with almost no streaking, allowing you to get back to business as usual in no time.The cleaning process can be expedited with regular weekly dry dusting. This quick process helps remove abrasive sand, dirt, and grit before it can damage your stone floor’s sealant.
It’s worth noting that frequent use of an ammonia-based solution can dull the surface of your stone, so stick to a gentle dish soap instead.
Stone floors are great for people with allergies
Since stone floors are sealed to protect the individual tiles from moisture damage, they are a fantastic option for those with airborne allergies and sensitivities. This is because sealed stone tiles don’t soak up moisture, which has been known to contribute to the spread of bacteria, viruses, and other dangerous pollutants. Instead, any excess moisture like spilled liquids will simply remain on the surface of the floor until it is wiped away.Additionally, because it is easy to clean, pollutants such as dust mites, pollen, and dander are easily swept away before effecting your home’s air quality.
Stone floors are excellent for insulation
Beyond saving you cleaning time and minimizing your allergy symptoms, stone tile flooring is fantastic for saving money on your utility bill.Stone has a high thermal inertia value, which means that it retains its temperature well. If it’s warm, it takes significantly longer to cool than a floor with a low thermal inertia value. In contrast, if it’s cold, it takes a long time for stone floors to heat up. This saves you money because it allows your flooring to help regulate the temperature of your home. Stone floors will help keep inside cool during the hot summer months and warm during the blustering winter nights.
Stone floors are beautiful
Probably one of the most noteworthy features of stone is its look. Since it’s a natural material, stones veining patterns, coloring, and other characteristics vary from piece to piece. No two stone floors will ever look exactly alike. This unique property means each tile is a work of art and can create a one-of-a-kind feel for every room in the house.There are endless possibilities when it comes to the look and feel of stone tile. Some more popular styles are:
- Granite: mosaic-like splashes of color ranging from warm natural earth tones to modern contrasting black and white patterns.
- Travertine: warm beiges and crisp white hues make travertine a great option for when you want to create a rustic, welcoming atmosphere.
- Marble: Marble’s stunning, almost translucent look is ideal for making a luxurious design concept come to life. It’s wide range of colors makes marble a stunning option for any space.
- Slate: Typically available in rich dark grays and greens, slate’s high-textured finish is perfect for making a statement. Whether indoor or out, slate is a great option when you want to make an impact.
