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Types of Stone Flooring
There are a number of different types of stone available for use in stone flooring. Using this material for flooring has a strong link with history; for many years it was the only way to cover floors apart from dirt or straw and it was often the reserve of the wealthy and powerful. Stone flooring is increasing in popularity with each passing year as more people realise how stunning well laid stone floors can be. This type of flooring also had the advantage of being very hard wearing and offering a completely seamless finish, something unachievable with other surfaces. It is also very hygienic due to its non-porous nature making it highly resistant to bacteria and useful for areas such as the kitchen or bathroom.Marble is one of the most "regal" of different types of stone flooring. It is primarily exported from India, Italy and Egypt and is a form of calcium carbonate with the unique swirling patterns and colours being created by various impurities in the material.
Granite is also used for stone flooring and is one of the most hardest types that you can install in your own home. It is easier to finish than marble and can be crafted into a tremendous variety of colours, shapes and sizes with the most primary colours ranging from black to light gray.
Terrazzo is a composite material made up of stone
chippings (marble or granite usually) that is mixed together with
concrete. It can then be poured directly rather than having to lay
individual slabs making it perfect for quick builds. It is then
polished to a shine after being laid and should last for years.
Limestone is an up and coming material for use in stone flooring and is very popular with hotels and other places that see a lot of foot traffic wearing away the stone flooring due to its hard wearing nature. It is very shiny when finished properly and can be found in various colours and shades.
Slate is another up and coming material for use in stone flooring, primarily due to its very affordable nature. It is very easy to handle, shape and cut making it perfect for those unafraid of DIY and laying their own flooring and is very resistant to liquids making it perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.
Sandstone is very similar to limestone but is often
finished to a far more rustic standard. It is often utilised as stone
flooring in areas that need to be durable but resistant to slipping and
sliding.
