NATURAL STONE
Certified Floor Covering Installation CFI-Canada Training
Looks – Natural and rough to highly polished and contemporary
Formats – Sizes range from 2″x2″ to more than 24″ square
Durability – Medium to High. Some natural stones like slate can chip and others like marble can scratch
Comfort – Very Firm
Sound – Moderate to loud. Like Ceramic tile the hardness can help to amplify the noise in a room
Installation – DIY or professional. Use of proper techniques and setting materials is essential
Maintenance – Sweep and damp mop. Some stone may require other sealers or enhancers to achieve a desired look
Areas of Use – Anywhere but traditional areas include: bathrooms, foyers and kitchens
Advantages – A natural look. Every piece is different
Disadvantages – Permanent installation. Removal is quite difficult. It is not ceramic tile there is more maintenance and every piece is different
Environmental – Moderate. The material is natural but processing and transportation does have environmental impact
Cost Range – medium to high
* note – Always check with the manufacture as to recommendations on areas to be installed, and any special instructions for repair and refinishing that may be required. Adhering to manufactures cleaning and maintenance instructions should be followed, in addition to maintaining appropriate humidity levels.