Installing Marble in Markham Homes
Many
Markham homeowners consider installing marble on floors, countertops, or as decorative accents. However, it
can be difficult to know where to start. There are many steps involved, including
choosing slabs, finishes, and edges, and having the stone installed. The best
way to proceed is to find a stone supplier that's knowledgeable and reliable.
Partnering with a good stone company can be the most important decision you
will make when
installing marble in your home.
How can you
find a respected company that services the Markham area? There are various ways
to do this, but if you're like most people, you'll go first to the Internet. There
you will discover a plethora of outlets selling stone: from large chain
hardware stores to boutiques specializing in exotic stone. The best choice is
an independent company with a reputable track record and a large selection of
marble, granite, and other stone. (You will want to keep your options open
until you explore the types of stone available to you.) Bear in mind that a
Canadian family-owned company may be the best choice for a number of reasons,
including trustworthiness and expertise.
After
exploring the internet presence of various companies, you'll want to schedule a
visit to the warehouse of at least one company to look at slabs. You should never
choose stone from a photograph or a small sample unless it cannot be avoided.
Seeing the actual slab will give you a much better idea of how the stone will
look in your home.)
Marble Vs. Granite
Marble is the
first and only choice of many homeowners; it is unparalleled for depth and
luminosity, and it gives any room an elegant, luxurious look. However, some
homeowners begin with the idea of marble floors or countertops and opt instead
for granite, another beautiful stone. Here are some comparisons between the two
natural stones:
- Composition. Granite is made of
feldspar, quartz and mica. Marble is made of calcite, or recrystallized
limestone.
- Durability. Both marble and granite
are very durable. However, granite is harder and denser than marble; marble is
a softer, more porous substance. This means that granite is more
scratch-resistant and stain-resistant. Both stones are heat resistant.
- Safety. Granite and marble are
both natural stones. They won't off-gas dangerous chemicals, and they're
hypoallergenic. Both are resistant to bacteria, making them excellent surfaces
for food preparation. Polished marble floors can be slippery when wet.
- Cost. Natural stone requires
an initial investment, but it will add resale value to your home. Marble is
often more expensive than granite, but both types of stone are available in a
range of prices. Tiles are less expensive than slabs for both stones.
- Function. Granite is more
suitable as flooring for high-traffic areas than marble. Marble is the
countertop of choice for pastry chefs. Where and how the stone will be used may
dictate which of the two you choose.
Talk to the Experts
Now that you know a little
more about granite and marble, visit a showroom and talk to a stone specialist.
You're sure to find just the right stone for your living space!