When investing in a natural stone slab, many Toronto homeowners can become overwhelmed with their choices. From marble to porcelain, granite and quartzite, the choice of which affordable natural stone should go in which part of your house can be a confusing one. With a few basic pieces of information, this choice can be much easier.

 

 

One of the most desired places to put natural stone is in the kitchen, specifically countertops. Because the kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in the house, it is important to look for a natural stone that is durable and easy to clean.  

 

Granite is the fan favourite for kitchen countertops, as it can come in a wide array of colours and textures. Granite is highly durable and can withstand a lot of routine hard use. However, keep in mind that it is a porous stone, meaning it has the tendency to absorb moisture. This means that without routine cleaning, it can harbor bacteria and other moisture harmful to the stone.

 

Marble is another strong choice for kitchen countertops. Marble is one of the best natural stones in regards to heat transfer ability, and is used in many professional kitchens. It is also one of the most timelessly beautiful stones, and makes a strong luxurious statement in kitchens. Marble is a soft stone however, and is more prone to scratching and scuffs with regular hard use; it can also absorb and hold moisture in the ways granite can.

 

 

The bathroom may be the most difficult room to add natural stone to, as the obvious key concern here is moisture retention. Slate is one of the best choices for bathroom surfaces, as it is not porous like many natural stones and incredibly hard. Slate is great for bathroom flooring for these reasons, and will be able to withstand all the use it receives. The only consideration with slate is its dark colour palate, and many buyers will be put off by its dark and gloomy colour scheme.

 

Another strong idea for bathroom stone is to use natural stone tiles instead of slabs. Tiles will not retain water the same way slabs will, as the small amounts of rock are not able to absorb and spread moisture as effectively. The addition of grout will also stop water transfer and therefore reduce moisture retention. Tiles can also be designed in intricate patterns, creating a beautiful look stone slabs alone cannot. Like all tile elements in the house however, tiles must be regularly cleaned and sealed in order to ensure durability.

 

 

Some of the best uses of stone are around the home where they’d least be expected. Granite can be used for stair treads, curbing, or even general flooring in the house. Slate is one of the best roofing options on the market to date. Quartzite can be used to cover walls, floors, and even roofs. Marble can even be used for decorative pillars and outside elements of the house.

 

All natural stone slab purchases require a good level of basic research and understanding how the stones react to the elements. Be it kitchen and bathroom stone, to decorative elements and support beams, natural stone slabs can be an affordable investment into the beauty and quality of your Toronto home.