Are you ignoring these expert tips for your natural stone floor?

a Guide for Architects, Designers and those interested in natural stone

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When it comes to natural stone flooring, we’re often bombarded with the same old advice: “Seal it well,” “Avoid acidic cleaners,” or “Choose the right stone for the right area.”

While these tips are certainly valid, let's dive deeper into the world of natural stone flooring and uncover some unconventional wisdom that only experienced professionals know.

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I. The Secret Life of Stone: Understanding Its Unique Personality

Every piece of natural stone is a character in its own right. Did you know that stones like marble and travertine have a “memory”? Over time, they can develop a patina - a kind of soft glow or sheen that comes from years of use and care. This patina is what gives historical buildings their timeless, lived-in charm. Embrace the journey of your stone; allow it to tell its story through the subtle changes in its appearance. Instead of fearing scratches or wear, understand them as part of the stone’s natural evolution.

? Encourage clients to see minor imperfections as a unique character trait of their stone floor. It's not a flaw; it's a story etched in stone.

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II. More Than Just Sealing: The Art of Making Stone Breathe

We've all heard about the importance of sealing stone floors, but here's the catch: Not all stone needs the same level of sealing. Some stones, like certain granites, are denser and less porous, meaning they breathe differently. If these are sealed too heavily, moisture can get trapped underneath, causing the stone to discolor or even crack over time. On the other hand, softer stones like limestone need to be sealed more often due to their porous nature.

* It's worth mentioning here, though, that I recommend an impregnator rather than sealing.

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? Do a "water test" to check the porosity of your stone. Put a few drops of water on the surface. If it's absorbed quickly, it's time to re-treat. If not, let the stone breathe and avoid over-treating.

? * An impregnator is a waterproofing treatment just like a sealer; however, it achieves this in a different way. In contrast to a sealer, an impregnator works below the surface of the building material, rather than creating a film.

It does this by chemically bonding and penetrating into the material. Instead of sealing the pores of the material, it lines the pores. This means that while water cannot enter the substrate, any water vapor can still freely travel through the pores and breathe out.

The best way to think about an impregnator vs a sealer is that an impregnator waterproofs the substrate itself, while a sealer creates a waterproof film on the substrate.

Long-term, with no film to break and with the breathability of the building material maintained, the lifespan of an impregnator far exceeds that of a sealer.

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III. Heat and Light: The Silent Influencers of Stone Durability

?Natural stone reacts to environmental changes. For example, did you know that certain stones can change color slightly when exposed to sunlight over time? A white marble floor may develop a warmer hue if it's sunbathed daily. Additionally, stones like slate and granite are excellent heat conductors, making them perfect for homes with underfloor heating systems.

? For areas with intense sunlight, consider stones that embrace color change gracefully, like Quartzite or slate. For heated floors, ensure the stone is a good conductor to maximize energy efficiency and comfort.

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IV. Mix and Match: The Bold Approach to Flooring Design

Why settle for one type of stone when you can create a masterpiece with a mix? Combining different types of stones—such as pairing the sleek elegance of black granite with the warm, textured feel of travertine—can create stunning, one-of-a-kind designs. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about function. You can use more durable stones in high-traffic areas and softer, more luxurious stones in less-trafficked spots.

? Use contrasting stones to create borders, medallions, or even “area rugs” within your stone flooring. This adds a layer of visual interest and allows for a functional distribution of stone types according to usage.

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V. Routine Isn’t Boring: The Art of Strategic Cleaning

We all know about avoiding acidic cleaners, but the real magic lies in strategic cleaning. Each type of stone has its own personality and, thus, its own cleaning requirements. For instance, while marble may need a pH-neutral cleaner, a more robust stone like granite can handle a slightly stronger solution. It’s about understanding what each stone needs to stay at its best.?

? Develop a personalized cleaning routine based on the stone type and placement. Consider rotating cleaning products to prevent buildup and ensure the stone’s natural beauty remains untarnished.

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VI. Mind the Subfloor: The Foundation of Longevity

This one’s a game-changer: the longevity of your natural stone floor isn’t just about the stone itself but also what lies beneath it. The subfloor plays a critical role in the stone’s durability. If the subfloor isn’t perfectly level, it can cause tiles to crack or become uneven over time.

? Insist on a high-quality subfloor preparation before installation. A little extra time and investment here will pay dividends in the form of a durable, long-lasting floor.

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Conclusion

Natural stone flooring is more than just a design choice; it’s an investment in timeless beauty. By embracing these unconventional tips, you’re not just maintaining your floors; you’re nurturing a living, breathing element of your home. Remember, the stone you choose has its own story to tell - let’s make sure it’s a good one.

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Feel free to share your experiences or any other unique tips you’ve discovered in your journey with natural stone flooring!

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If you need further information or consultation on your next natural stone project, we are here to assist you.

www.stone.management - [email protected]

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