Stone Buying Guide

Types of Stone

Marble

[Marble](https://www.flooranddecor.com/stone?prefn1=productType&prefv1=Marble) is a luxurious, elegant option that adds a touch of sophistication to any space. It is known for its beautiful veining patterns and is available in a range of shades, from white to black. Marble can be used for a stone backsplash, flooring, tile, accent walls, and more.

Travertine

If you prefer a more rustic look that’s old-world, [travertine](https://www.flooranddecor.com/travertine-stone), a limestone formed by mineral deposits from hot springs, is a great option. Modern travertine still showcases warm neutrals with a more refined finish.

Slate

[Slate](https://www.flooranddecor.com/slate-stone) is naturally slip resistant, making it an ideal choice for indoor and outdoor applications. With form and function, it’s a go-to for outdoor spaces. From stacked stone to floor tiles and mosaics, slate is a staple.

Granite & Quartz

[Granite and quartz](https://www.flooranddecor.com/granite-stone) rank high on the mineral hardness scale, making them resistant to scratches and heat damage. Most commonly, granite and quartz are popular choices for kitchen countertops, given their durability and natural beauty.

Area of Installation

Different stones have unique properties that suit specific areas in and around your home. Let's explore some factors when selecting a stone for different spaces.

Outdoors

If you plan to install stone flooring outdoors, opt for materials with a textured finish like slate. This type of surface will provide better traction when wet. Additionally, stone with more texture will show less wear from weather conditions.

Bathrooms

Water and slip resistance are the ultimate considerations for stone in a bathroom. Be mindful of the finish of the stone to ensure it will stand the test of time. Stone mosaics are recommended for shower floors because the presence of more grout lines creates better traction.

Kitchens

Natural stone countertops are the ideal finishing touch to any kitchen. Each stone has varying degrees of maintenance, from high maintenance honed marble to highly durable granite and quartz.

Quality & Maintenance

When renovating your home, it's important to care for newly installed stone with proper [sealing](https://www.flooranddecor.com/tile-sealers-installation-materials?tab=icon-filter-tabs-1) and [cleaning](https://www.flooranddecor.com/cleaners-installation-materials), made easy by following label instructions. But first, it’s essential to select top-notch materials that will last.

Examine Color Consistency

While natural variations are expected in stone, look for uniformity in color patterns throughout the material. Purchase boxes of natural stone with the same lot number to ensure the shade is the same.

Avoid Excessive Imperfections

Some larger stones may have small pits or fissures as part of their natural beauty. Take care to avoid excessive imperfections that could compromise durability over time.

At Floor & Decor, we source our stone directly from around the world to bring you the finest quality and style at an unbeatable value. From Italy and Spain to Greece, our stone adds a touch of luxury to your home without the luxurious price tag.