Stone can bring added value to your home. Whether it is time to sell or a personal luxury you want to add, stone is an upgrade that enhances the visual appeal while reducing the maintenance. But what is the best stone for your home?

4 Things to Look for when Choosing a Stone

Look for quality.

You want the best for what is available in your budget. The material will last a lifetime, so it’s worth the investment. Granite is the most luxurious and the most expensive. And it only takes a small amount of stone to signal quality and longevity. A custom limestone surround on a fireplace can speak volumes with the right quality.

Know about maintenance.

With proper maintenance, stone surfaces will last for generations. Stones in general are low maintenance but there are differences in the amount of maintenance with each type. Quartzite is hard to scratch and even harder to stain whereas the softer and more absorbent Limestone is more prone to scratches and stains. And most stones like Limestone need to be treated with a sealing agent periodically to protect its surfaces.

Choose patterns and colors that blend in with your home’s style.

First, think about the shape you want. Then consider your color and size. When decorating, adding in lighter colors can help brighten and open your space. Darker colors can make your space look smaller and more intimate. As for the size of the stone, smaller stones and pebble textures look better when you are working in a small area. You have more flexibility with using larger or a variety of stones in a larger area. Consistency in color should also be noted. For example, Fieldstone Center has a large variety of flagstone. Slate is an option with lovely jewel tones while sandstone might not be as wild but the tones are consistent.

Consider the function.

While your main consideration might be how it looks, you want to choose a stone that fits your purpose. Heavy, slippery, absorbency – these are some characteristics to evaluate when considering a stone. For example, when adding stone for a decorative wall, thin stone veneer is a popular choice because it is lighter and easier to apply. As for flooring, flagstone works well with radiant heat, but if it is a high traffic area in your home you may want a slate flagstone that better resists staining compared to a sandstone flagstone. In addition, Quartzite is very hard but will be too slippery in areas such as a bathroom.

With so many types of stone to choose from, you have options. Fieldstone Center can help direct you to the best stone for your home project. For assistance, contact us at (770) 385-7708.