Natural Stone Flooring

Natural stone (such as slate, marble, granite, and limestone), which has been used as flooring for centuries, is more practical now, given modern-day sealants and surfacing techniques. Stone can be used in its natural shape – known as flagstone – or cut into more formal rectangular blocks or tiles. Generally, pieces are butted tightly together though flagstones which have naturally irregular shapes require wider grout joints. If the cost of natural stone flooring can be absorbed in to your budget it is by far the best solution.

The weight of stone requires a strong, well-supported sub-floor. Some stone is cold and slippery underfoot, though new honed and etched surfaces are safer subtler alternatives to polished surfaces. Certain stones, such as marble and limestone absorb stains and dirt readily, so careful sealing is essential.

The cost of masonry flooring can be quite high, though, recent diamond-saw technology has lowered it considerably.