Hints & tips
Natural Stone vs. Ceramic Tile
Natural Characteristics
Understand that many natural stones may contain small naturally-occurring cracks (fissures), granite countertops may have some pitting and each stone has its own unique characteristics. Cracking and pitting are common complaints heard from consumers who were unaware of these characteristics when they selected natural stone. A common saying in the stone business:
"If you want consistency and uniformity, then select porcelain tile".
Installation Materials
The most common way to install ceramic (or porcelain) tiles is using the thin-set method with a 3/16" or greater grout joint. Stones are commonly installed using a medium-bed or mud-bed installation with a grout joint 1/16" - 3/16". A thicker setting bed allows the installer to level the product and create a more level installation.
Maintenance
If you own a large quantity of stone flooring, you will want to have it deep-cleaned on occasion. Also, most stones require a grout release before installation and a penetrating sealer after installation. A penetrating (or impregnating) sealer needs to be re-applied periodically per manufacturer’s instructions. Go to manufacturer’s websites for detailed maintenance instructions (i.e. crossville-ceramics.com, aquamix.com, miraclesealants.com, stonetechpro.com, etc.)
Wear resistance
Granites are the hardest of all natural stones, and there are some stone types that approach the hardness of granite. All polished stones scratch dull, yet some honed stones may be more difficult to clean than polished. A natural (through-body) porcelain tile can be up to 30% harder than granite.