Adding a sense of warmth and permanence to a room, natural stone is a beautiful addition to any home’s design. Natural stone can be used in a supportive role, as part of an overall design scheme or as a dramatic, grand centrepiece. Although not inexpensive, natural stone is an investment, adding value and years of pleasure. So before you purchase natural stone slab, there are many things to consider when designing with natural stone. Here is  a primer on where and how to use natural stone slab in GTA homes.

 

You will want to consider the qualities of the kind of natural stone you want to use. Here are a few of the most popular choices.

 

 

Granite is one of the most durable and popular choices around. It’s so strong that curling stones are made of granite.  It’s also antimicrobial and easy to care for, which makes it a great choice for kitchen countertops. Slabs come in an array of colours, from the classic salt and pepper look to the more dramatic shades, including exotic blues, crimsons, emeralds and ambers with various patterns of veins. Though granite is stain and scratch-resistant, like all natural stone, some extra care is advised. And although granite is also heat-resistant, don’t put a red hot pot directly on the stone’s surface as you may be putting it on a seam or fissure that could crack.

 

 

This gorgeous stone is softer and more porous than granite. It is still very durable, but should not be used in high-traffic areas. Its creamy hues can add a luxurious element to bathroom vanities, shower walls, floors and around fireplaces.  Marble is also a great surface for making pastry; chefs in the know like marble for its cool, non-sticking properties. Marble can also age well, with a warm, casual patina.

 

 

Limestone is a lovely, strong stone. It can vary in its qualities and textures, so be sure to consult with a stone expert about where and how you are going to incorporate limestone. Limestone is best used as bathroom countertops and flooring in kitchens or front halls. Other places where limestone slab works well is on the wall of a shower or as a mantelpiece over a fireplace.

• Don’t purchase your natural stone slab based only on seeing a sample. Every piece of natural stone is unique, with different shades of colouring and patterns. Enjoy picking the perfect natural stone slab for your needs.
• Do bring in any other colour elements that you will be using in your design, and look at them alongside your particular slab; this includes cloth, cabinet and paint colours.
• Do take care of your stone; wipe up spills immediately, using a wet cloth or non-abrasive cleaner.

Consult an Expert

Deal only with experts when you purchase natural stone slab in GTA. They will be able to  tell you how to use and care for your particular slab. Remember, you are dealing with a natural material where no two pieces are the same -  so enjoy the process of choosing the natural stone slab that is perfect for your GTA home.