So you've decided on natural stone tiles. Okay....now what?

Natural stone’s unique characteristics make it a popular choice for flooring. It is warm, inviting, earthy, classic and elegant. But, there are pros and cons to each stone and it’s important to know what they are before making your final selection. Luckily, our staff at Interiors has been working with stone for years and can help you make the best choice for your home and lifestyle.

Quick Tips
We have here a checklist of some important factors to keep in mind, but seriously, call us. We know our stuff and can help you out every step of the way. 340-775-1655.

SLATE is the most common type of stone tile. It has the ability to split easily into thin sheets. The denser the slate, the more expensive the tile, but it will be less likely to chip and flake.

TRAVERTINE has an easy beautiful warmth with a natural tendency toward a matte finish. Its patterns and colors vary quite a bit; it can scratch and stain easily.

MARBLE has a luminous beauty that has earned a place in history. It is harder and more resilient than travertine but because it's absorbant, professional sealing is necessary. It cannot be used outdoors and can stain and scratch easily.

GRANITE is the hardest of the natural stones and since it repels water it can be used indoors or out. On the downside, with its high shine, granite can appear cold and unforgiving.

LIMESTONE is similar to travertine and the two are often confused. Limestone however is much harder and is a more resilient flooring choice. It has beautiful patterns and colors, but absorbs water.

SANDSTONE is more consistent in its colors and patterns but offers a limited pallet. It is extremely resilient and lends itself well to flooring.

I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free. Michelangelo

 


511 Porous Plus - A Customer Favorite!

511 Porous Plus by Miracle Sealants is the top performing penetrating sealer. It offers water, stain & slip protection for your natural stone tile, including:

• Limestone
• Sandstone
• Cement
• Slate
• Saltillo Tile
• Flagstone

• Concrete Tile
• Granite
• Marble
• Sanded Grout
• Brick

A penetrating sealer, 511 Porous Plus forms an invisible barrier that is resistant to moisture and stains while allowing vapor to escape. It is not a surface coating and will not alter the natural look. All surfaces are harder and less slippery. 511 Porous Plus is approved for interior and exterior use, is weather resistant, ok for food areas and is U.V. transparent. It is easy to use and gives superior coverage.


Caring for your tile
Even in the best of conditions, daily life can cause wear and tear and scratches. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Acids and other harsh cleansers are damaging to ALL marble, travertine and limestone. Use a cleanser specifically made for natural stones.  We recommend Miracle Sealants because their products are of the highest quality and are specifically formulated for the particular requirements of each stone. Their most requested products are kept in stock, and we can order any other ones for you.
• NEVER ever use vinegar to clean your stone tile! The results are disastrous.
• Always use drink coasters and hot plates on your stone countertops.
• Have your surfaces professionally sealed. Unsealed surfaces tend to absorb stains and odors.
• Promptly clean all spills.
• Vacuum or dry mop often.
• When wet mopping, wring the mop head as dry as possible and use a cleanser made especially for that purpose. We like Tile & Stone Cleaner.
• Avoid using wheeled chairs on travertine, limestone and marble. (That’s right kids, keep those skateboards outside!)


Natural stone tile will give your home many years of grace and beauty. With proper care, you can rest easy with your decision.

Our authentic high-quality natural stone tile is imported directly from all over the world.