what are natural stone tiles

A Complete Guide to the Different Types of Natural Stone Tiles

1. Cobbled Stone. If you’ve ever visited Italy or parts of Europe or Latin America, you will be familiar with cobbled stone.
2. Jerusalem Stone. Jerusalem stone got it’s name for having been the stone used to create the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
3. Ledge Stone. ...
4. Limestone Tile. ...
5. Onyx Tile. ...
Marble Tile. ...
Pebbles. ...
Slate Tile. ...
Travertine Tile. ...

Full Answer

What are the different types of natural stone?

TYPES OF STONE: The familiar stone types that are used today are identified through four categories: Sedimentary, Metamorphic, Igneous and Man-made stone. I. Sedimentary stonecame from organic elements such as glaciers, rivers, wind, oceans, and plants. Tiny sedimentary pieces broke off form these elements and accumulated to form rock beds.

What is the best natural stone flooring?

Types of Natural Stone Flooring

1. Marble. Marble flooring is famous for its classic look of luxury, dramatic veining, smooth texture, and high-gloss finish.
2. Granite. When you consider durability alone, granite tile is superior to all others and the best natural stone flooring for kitchens.
3. Travertine. ...
4. Quartzite. ...
5. Slate. ...
6. Limestone. ...
7. Sandstone. ...

What is the best stone for flooring?

• Granite. Granite is a great option for homeowners who have previously chosen granite slabs for their kitchen counters.
• Limestone. This material is ideal for kitchens with a rustic or traditional style.
• Marble.
• Slate.
• Travertine.

What are the types of natural stone flooring?

Your Guide to the 5 Most Common Types of Stone Tile Flooring

• Granite. Granite is the most in-demand stone since it’s great for both floors and countertops. ...
• Slate. This sedimentary rock usually comes in dark gray, dark red, or muted green. ...
• Travertine. Travertine is a much lighter color than slate and can be just as rustic. ...
• Limestone. ...
• Marble. ...
• See your Options in Person. ...
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Is natural stone tile good?

Natural stone is sturdy and durable. It is not slippery like ceramic and other materials, making it a safe option for homeowners with kids or pets. These tiles also offer a reasonable amount of insulation, helping keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

How can I tell if my tile is natural stone?

Feel the tiles for texture. A fairly uniform texture—whether polished, matte or distressed—may signal a porcelain tile floor. Natural stone tiles will have small pits, fissures and abnormalities that porcelain will not have.

Is natural stone more expensive than tile?

Natural stone is typically considered more valuable because it's unique and more expensive than ceramic tile. While you may find beauty in natural stone's inconsistent texture and colors, these attributes can make the design of a room feel busy.

Is ceramic tile a natural stone?

Ceramic Tile: Because ceramic tile is man-made, it can come in countless color variations. It can even be made to resemble the look of natural stone or hardwood planks. The versatile color selections of ceramic make it easy to find a tile that coordinates with any interior décor.

Is natural stone waterproof?

The natural stone is not completely sealed during waterproofing. In simple terms, it is a partial closure of the stone in order to weaken its sensitive surface properties. Sealing, on the other hand, completely closes the surface of the stone. This full closure is equivalent to varnishing the natural stone.

How do you clean natural stone tile?

1:193:12How to Clean Natural Stone Tiles : Cleaning Tips - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can kind of start out by using a soap solution. And a long-handled brush like this is reallyMoreYou can kind of start out by using a soap solution. And a long-handled brush like this is really nice it's going to save your back.

How long does natural stone last?

100 yearsOn average, the lifespan of natural stones, like marble and granite, can be well over 100 years. That's compared to ceramic tile with a life expectancy of 75 years.

Which is better natural stone or porcelain?

Overall, Porcelain is stronger than Natural Stone. Not only is it denser, but it can also withstand higher temperatures and is not susceptible to staining or scratching.

Is natural stone good for kitchen floors?

Long-lasting Natural stone is a flooring material that is literally as hard as a rock, the name pretty much gives that away. Yes, it's actually a rock which makes it a durable, long-lasting flooring choice for your kitchen.

How can I tell if my tile is ceramic or stone?

Look for chips in the glaze to identify ceramic tile. Look closely at the glaze: if it's chipped, you will be able to see the tile's white or tan base. This is a sure sign that the tile is ceramic. Porcelain tiles are sometimes, but not always, glazed.

Are natural stone tiles porous?

Natural Stone Tiles are susceptible to staining and need to be sealed after installation. The reason for this is the fact that Natural Stone is porous and the sealer covers those pores, making it less susceptible to stains and easier to clean.

What is the difference between porcelain and stone tile?

Porcelain is more resistant to moisture than natural stone due to its lack of pores, which is why it's often used in wet areas such as bathrooms. However, it's this characteristic that makes it challenging to bond the tile to the substrate. Natural stone, on the other hand, tends to be more porous.

WHAT IS THE STRONGEST NATURAL STONE?

Diamonds, of course. But covering your surface with diamonds is most likely not an option. Of stone tile and extra-large slab options, quartzite an...

HOW IS NATURAL STONE FORMED?

Stone is developed when one or more minerals coalesce into a solid form. There are 3 main categories of natural stone: sedimentary, metamorphic, an...

WHAT IS A NATURAL STONE COUNTERTOP?

Natural stone countertops are counter surfaces covered by naturally-formed stone (not man-made material). Stone is mined from a solid rock, cut int...

WHAT IS THE BEST NATURAL STONE FOR COUNTERTOPS?

The "best" countertop is the one that you find most appealing and fulfills your needs. For countertops likely to be subjected to heavy use, we reco...

WHAT ARE NATURAL STONE SURFACES?

Natural stone surfaces are floors, walls, and countertops covered by naturally-formed stone (not man-made material). At Daltile, we offer natural s...

IS MARBLE A NATURAL STONE?

Yes. Marble is a metamorphic stone and makes amazing countertops and stunning seamless walls and floors.

WHAT CAN YOU USE TO CLEAN NATURAL STONE?

Natural stone can be cleaned with a mild neutral cleanser, water, and a soft cloth or sponge. After removing dirty, buff dry. Avoid hard bristle br...

What is the best tile for outdoor kitchen?

8. Slate Tile. Earthtones are common in slate tiles and they have the additional benefit of being fireproof, making them ideal around a hearth or outdoor kitchen. When cut into tiles, they can make interesting patterns with multiple tones from browns to bluish greens.

What is the best tile to use in place of marble?

Travertine Tile. Travertine is often used in place of marble to cover large areas because it is less expensive, but has the same alluring veined look. Unpolished, it has a better grip than polished marble, making it ideal for around a pool area. However, polished it can be just as smooth and can be used in place of marble.

What is the color of a ledge stone?

Ledge Stone. This stone ranges in color from salmon pinks to orange as well as brown, tan, and gray. It also has interesting visual veining within the stone. It is typically cut into strips and stacked in layers that jut out against each other to create a dimensional 3-D effect, rather than lying flat.

What colors are used for limestone tile?

Polished limestone requires more upkeep to keep the nice shine. This stone has a wide color palette, not just whites, yellow, and beige. It also can come in hues of blue, black, and green. Here are 5 Different Limestone Tile Ideas to Inspire Your New Floor or Wall Design. Baitage Blue - View Details / Get Quote ».

What is the king of tiles?

Marble Tile. Marble is the king of tiles for it’s luxury status and durability. It comes in so many different colors and patterns with large veins, spider veins, or layered striations that make it really unique. It is so durable that it can be hard to cut and work with.

Why do people want custom tile?

The reason someone wants a custom job done in their home, can also be the same reason that it can be daunting at first for the buyer. That reason is choice. Different types of stone tiles offer the buyer limitless design possibilities, which can also make it a difficult choice, at first. With so many types of natural stone tiles out there, they often need some advice on how to make the perfect choice. By helping someone match up their vision with just the right natural stone, it’s especially satisfying to see the look of amazement when the project is complete to beyond their wildest expectations. If you’re having difficulty figuring out what natural stone to use, just continue reading this guide for more expert advice.

What is the best stone for radiant heat?

4. Limestone Tile. This is a very soft stone, which can be polished to high shine. It conducts heat admirably, which is why it is a top choice to use with radiant heating. In it’s natural state it is not shiny, and doesn’t require a whole lot of maintenance.

What is the most popular material for tiling?

Vanities & More. Installation & Aftercare. . Natural Stone is one of the most popular materials used in tiling for many homeowners and designers. Natural Stone is in popular demand since it is a durable material and expresses timeless beauty. Mediterranean Tile offers a plethora of different stone tiles such as marble, granite, onyx, travertine, ...

What is a pebble tile?

On a bathroom or shower floor, pebbles provide a subtle massage for the feet. Available in full sized sheets or as a border, the Mediterranean vignette displays show the versatility of this wonderful natural stone.

What is limestone floor pad?

Limestone is a sedimentary natural stone predominantly composed of calcium carbonate. Known for its consistency and durability, limestone can be used on interior and exterior surfaces. Both Medtile showrooms display limestone floor pads in a few different environments. Whether used in a kitchen, bathroom, foyer, or poolside, limestone enhances the beauty of your home.

What is Mediterranean marble?

Marble is a metamorphic natural stone that projects a timeless and classic look for any home. Mediterranean offers a variety of marble from all over the world. These beautiful stones afford our design team a virtually endless pallet of color from which to work. Mediterranean carries a collection of marble finished many different ways: polished, honed, brushed, antiqued, and tumbled to name a few. Unique sizes and shapes work in a variety of applications.

What is onyx stone?

Onyx is a typically translucent natural stone that is a calcium carbonate. It is smooth stone that is available in a variety of unique colors and few different finishes. Onyx will certainly add an air of elegance to any home.

Is natural stone tile eco friendly?

Natural Stone tiles are eco-friendly, especially during cleaning since they do not require any harsh chemicals. However, the biggest benefit is that it is the real deal and no other artificial product can compare to it’s longevity and long-lasting beauty.

Is granite a natural stone?

Granite is an igneous natural stone that is extremely durable, stain and scratch resistant that is recommended for virtually any use. There is an excellent selection of colors, and the strength of granite makes it ideal for commercial installations as well as heavy use residential floors.

Sea Grass Natural 12x12 Interlocking Pebbles

Sea Grass Natural 12x12 Interlocking Pebbles. STOCKED & SHIPPED FROM OUR CALIFORNIA WAREHOUSE.

California Gold Mesh 2.75 SFT Flagmat

Feature rich rust tones, cool gray hues, and touches of gold, highlighting the natural beauty only Mother Nature can master. 2.75 Sq Ft / Piece.

Tuscany Ivory 16X16 Brushed & Chiseled

THIS PRODUCT CURRENTLY ONLY STOCKED AND SHIPPED FROM CALIFORNIA WAREHOUSE.

Crema Cappuccino 12x24 Polished

CURRENTLY STOCKED AND SHIPPED ONLY FROM OUR CALIFORNIA WAREHOUSE. PLEASE SELECT “CALIFORNIA WAREHOUSE" AS SHIPPING WAREHOUSE DURING CHECK OUT TO AVOID DELAYS.

Snow Flake Natural 12x12 Interlocking Pebbles

Snow Flake Natural 12x12 Interlocking Pebbles. STOCKED & SHIPPED FROM OUR CALIFORNIA WAREHOUSE.

Golden White 2.75 Sft Flagmat

Features natural gold, white and grays backed by mesh for easy installation.

Tuscany Ivory 16x24 Honed

Tuscany Ivory 16X24 Honed. CURRENTLY STOCKED ONLY IN OUR CALIFORNIA WAREHOUSE.

Which is more expensive, ceramic tile or natural stone?

Natural Stone:Because it is a natural resource, stone tiles are among some of the more expensive flooring options. Their luxurious look makes the expense worth it if the budget allows for it. Ceramic Tile:Ceramic tile is one of the most affordable and durable flooring options available.

What is the most common type of flooring?

Two of the most common flooring types are natural stone tile and ceramic tile. With similar overall looks available in both options, it can be hard to decide which one makes ...

What is Cabot Cabots slate tile?

You can use them on floors, walls, and backsplashes throughout the home. Marble, granite, limestone, travertine, and slateare a few of the most popular natural stone tile options.

Which is better, granite or slate?

Granite and slate are much more durable than limestone or marble and tend to wear better over time. As it wears, natural stone tends to chip along the edges and in the corners. Starting with a more rustic tile can help minimize the appearance of imperfections.

Do you need to clean ceramic tile and natural stone?

Both natural stone and ceramic tile require regular cleaning but they way to do that varies between the two. Natural Stone:Stone materials are porous and require a sealantor glaze to help fill the pores and make the material resistant to water and stains.

Can tile run through a kitchen?

These durable tiles are suitable for both wet and dry locations, making them a flooring option that can run from the front door straight through the kitchen, laundry room, and even the bathrooms in the home. Because it is man-made, ceramic tile is available in more consistent color options.

Is ceramic tile man made?

Ceramic Tile:Because ceramic tile is man-made, it can come in countless color variations. It can even be made to resemble the look of natural stone or hardwood planks. The versatile color selections of ceramic make it easy to find a tile that coordinates with any interior décor. Cost.

Natural Stone Flooring Selection

Why is this important? Unfortunately, many natural stone manufacturers mix all different grades and quality to offer a low price.

Stone Tile Depot is a Preferred Supplier

We are the preferred supplier for commercial flooring contractors, builders, and developers since 2001. Our products are ideal for all commercial applications such as hotel bathrooms, hotel lobbies, pool decks, and other hospitality applications.

Check Our Collections

We pack your product with you in mind. We want to make sure you get your shipment intact and right. Each batch is checked by our experts to make sure tile lots are identified and recorded.

What is natural stone tile?

Natural stone tile is exactly how the name sounds. It’s a non-man-made, all-natural material straight from Mother Earth! There’s a variety of different natural stones, like slate, granite, marble, limestone, travertine and sandstone. To learn more about each one, check out our other blog, here.

What are the similarities between ceramic tile and natural stone?

When it comes to tile, there are two kinds that are quite similar—natural stone and ceramic. They’re both hard surface materials with comparable characteristics and durability. They’re both also made from natural materials, installed the same and require the same level of care. Natural stone and ceramic tile each have their own benefits ...

What is the best rating for ceramic tile?

Ceramic tile comes in a variety of hardness ratings. For ultimate durability, look for tile with a higher PEI rating, ideally a PEI of 3 or above. Lower PEI ratings are better for backsplashes and applications that won’t endure foot traffic.

Why do you need to seal natural stone?

Natural stone materials are porous and require a sealant or glaze to help fill the pores and make the material resistant to water and stains. The sealant will need to be reapplied periodically, depending on what type of natural stone material you go with.

What color is natural stone?

Natural stone comes in a wide variety of natural color variations, ranging from crisp whites to deep beige and brown tones. The material chosen will help to dictate the color of the flooring.

Do you need a sealer for unglazed tile?

Unglazed ceramic tile will need a sealant or top coat to protect it from staining, much like natural stone. The durable glaze on ceramic tile makes it suitable for use with a wide variety of cleaning products. Color Variations.

Can you use unglazed ceramic tile without a sealer?

Unglazed ceramic tile will need a sealant or top coat to protect it from staining, much like natural stone.