Five Benefits Of Natural Stone
Natural stone makes an excellent material indoors for flooring and countertops, but it can also be used outside for paving paths and patios. The following are some benefits you can enjoy if you opt for natural stone in your home.
1. Moisture Damage Resistant
Certain natural stone products are moisture resistant, so they are the perfect option for flooring and counters in damp rooms like the bathroom or kitchen. The key is to choose a polished stone with low porosity, such as granite or travertine. Avoid highly porous stones like marble and sandstone in areas where moisture can be an issue, though, or you may have to deal with stains or even mildew.
2. Traction and Safety
In certain areas traction is important. This includes the porch and patio, pathways, and even the entry way of your home. Natural stone comes in a range of finishes, including roughened high friction finishes that provide good traction in even the slipperiest conditions. Opt for a high traction stone finish option, preferably in a low porosity stone, anywhere that slipping is a major concern.
3. High Durability
If you want a floor, outdoor paving, or countertop option that will last the test of time, natural stone is the way to go. Harder stones, like granite and limestone, are less likely to suffer any permanent damage, but even some of the softer stones are much more durable than other flooring and countertop materials. Stone can withstand trauma, wear and tear, and staining quite well if it is properly sealed and maintained. Even if stone suffers from a chip, it can typically be ground down and refinished so that you won't have to worry about replacing the floor or countertop.
4. Ease of Maintenance
Except for a few well known high maintenance natural stones, like marble, stone flooring, paving, and counters require very little maintenance. Wiping them clean with a stone cleaner once in awhile and sweeping daily are the main maintenance chores. The stone should also be resealed every one to two years to help prevent stains and damage. If you have grouting between stone tiles, consider having it sealed to cut down on cleaning needs. Other than that, the only maintenance may be occasional stain removal if an accident occurs.
5. Property Value
Most people recognize the value of stone -- it has natural beauty, is timeless in design, and it lowers the cost of ownership since it doesn't have to be repaired or replaced very often. For these reasons, natural stone can raise your property value. This is an important consideration if you plan to sell your home one day.
Contact a natural stone dealer to learn more.