Integrating natural stone slabs into your Toronto home can be both practical and pleasurable. Natural stone is lovely to look at; warm, unique and beautiful, while also being extremely durable and easy to care for. Natural stone can be more expensive than cheaper materials, however it will add value to your home. Stone is durable and long-lasting, giving you years of pleasure. If you are doing a renovation, this is one area where you may want to splurge.

 

 

Start by visiting the showroom of a reputable retailer that specializes in natural stone. Seeing a wide variety of samples will give you a myriad of design ideas. There are many stone slabs with varying patterns and colours to choose from. Two of the most popular natural stones used in home design are granite and marble.

 

 

Marble’s classic beauty has been a source of inspiration to artisans for centuries. From Michelangelo’s David to the Taj Mahal, marble has been used for its warm, translucent beauty. Although we often think of the classic white of Italian Carrara marble, this luxurious natural stone comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including:

• Pearly ivory
• Deeply veined browns
• Rose and violet hues
• Creamy beige

Marble can be used as a signature piece: as a surface for dressers or tabletops. It is also popular for bathrooms, shower walls, vanities, and flooring. Although extremely durable, marble is a porous stone and needs some attention to prevent depreciation; it can be prone to scratching or staining if proper care isn’t used.

 

 

One of the hardest stones in the world, granite can stand up to a lot of abuse. That’s probably why it’s the top choice for making curling stones! Granite is antimicrobial, as well as being heat and stain-resistant, which makes it a popular surface for kitchen countertops. That said, as with any natural stone, some common sense maintenance is advised. Any spills should be wiped up immediately with a damp cloth, especially acidic liquids such as citrus juices, tomato sauce or wine.

 

When thinking about granite, consumers most often consider a traditional salt and pepper look that is fairly consistent. However, granite also comes in uniquely variegated varieties, with distinctive swirls and veining. Shades of granite can include:

• Greys with flecks of gold and rust
• Exotic blues and reds
• "Tortoise shell” patterning
• Swirls of amber and emerald greens
• Deep blacks

Find a Reputable Natural Stone Retailer

 

A natural stone specialist should be knowledgeable about their product and whether that particular stone slab is suited to your dream design. Ask the dealer what kind of sealants they recommend (honed or polished). They should have a variety of edging samples for you to consider and give you advice about the proper care of your natural stone slab. If you are buying a large slab, you will want to see the actual slab you are purchasing, not just a sample. Because of the variety of patterns, no two slabs are the same.

 

To find the perfect fit for your design, before purchasing seek out a reputable dealer who specializes in natural stone slabs in Toronto.