Natural Stone - Tile and Stone by Villagio

Going All Natural: Pro’s and Con’s of Natural Stone

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Natural stone tiles are distinct and unique. 
You should always view several pieces of the tile that is to be installed before the installation begins. Since it has been created by nature, not only are no two pieces exactly alike, those two pieces may not even be very similar.

The most common natural stone tiles include:
Slate, flagstone (sandstone), marble, granite, travertine and limestone. Each stone has unique characteristics and maintenance requirements.

Generally, you should seal natural stone tile before grouting,
unless you are planning on using the grout color in the stone as a design element.

Most natural stones are not resistant against common household acids (like lemon juice) or oil stains.
Therefore, you should use a penetrating sealer for all natural stones after installation. Follow manufacturers instructions on frequency of re-application.

The advantages of natural stone

– Timeless, unique appearance
– Design capabilities of through-body color material
– Perceived value
– Durable countertops and floors (granite)
– May be re-polished if scratched

The disadvantages of natural stone

– Ongoing re-sealing program is required
– Limited chemical and stain resistance
– Higher installation costs than ceramic tile
– Product received seldom looks like the sample

Selecting Tile - Tile and Stone by Villagio

Tips on Selecting Tile

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Consider the interior environment that you will create

  • Color will make the room look larger or smaller.
  • Size will determine the number of grout joints. Large-unit tiles work equally well in large or small rooms. Smaller tiles are usually intended for smaller rooms or to create a pattern.
  • Direction will create either a visual flow or a distinctive area

To make a room appear – Use

Larger – Light-medium colors or large format tiles

Smaller – Medium-dark colors or small format tiles

Lighter – Light-medium colors

Darker – Medium-dark colors (dark colors work best in rooms with plenty of natural light)

Warmer – “Warm” colors
Cooler – “Cool” colors

Neutral color – Larger tiles with coordinating grout joints or stone tile with thin coordinating grout joints

Color accents – Inset color using field tile or decos

Larger with a visual flow – Using the same tile from room to room

Distinctive rooms and areas – Change the size, the direction or use decos