Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to some commonly asked questions about the different types of stone and tile.
- What is marble?
- What is granite?
- What is the difference between granite and marble?
- What is limestone?
- What is travertine?
- What is soapstone?
- What is slate?
- What is the difference between ceramic tile and porcelain tile?
A: The beauty and uniqueness of marble is the result of nature. Marble is formed from fossil sediment deposits which have been pressed by the natural geologic forces of mother nature for millions of years. Marble was once limestone that had achieved metamorphosis from the intense pressures and high temperatures within the earth. The combination of the natural materials in these deposits, along with natural geologic events, produces unique colors and veining with a richness of depth and intensity. Most marble products are generally softer than granites and can have more porosity than granites. Since marble is a softer stone than granite, it is most often used in bathrooms, walls and flooring, as well as for tub decks, fireplace surrounds, furniture, sculptures, and courtyards. Marble is generally not recommended for kitchens, however, honed and sealed marble can be used successfully in kitchens.
Return to FAQ indexA: Granite is a dense-grained hard stone - the second hardest substance known next to diamonds. Granite is an igneous rock formed from the melting (or partially melting) of sediments deep within the earth, or through magma (lava) activity that has heated and cooled, placed under extreme pressure and heat for millions of years, then brought to the surface of the earth through upheaval of the crust (mountainous areas). This process produces a quartz-based product which combines strength and durability with rich patterns and veining. Minerals within granite typically appear as small flecks throughout the stone, often creating a 'salt and pepper' look. Other types of granite have veining similar to marble. Once polished, natural granite will maintain its high gloss finish virtually forever. And it cleans in seconds. Because of its durability, it can be used successfully in kitchens, countertops, wet bars, entry walls, floors, fireplaces, bathroom vanities. Flamed or honed granite can be used virtually anywhere!
Return to FAQ indexQ: What is the difference between granite and marble?
A: Although both are stones and both are quarried from the earth, granite and marble (and marble’s relatives – limestone, onyx and travertine) are very different from each other. Granite is formed deep in the earth’s mantle at extremely high temperatures, and is a very hard, resistant stone made of crystallized minerals. The marble family – limestone, travertine, marble, onyx – starts out as sediment – animal skeletons and shells, plant matter, silt – at the bottom of bodies of water. After millions of years this solidifies (lithifies) into stone.
Return to FAQ indexA: Limestone is a form of marble that is less dense than marble or travertine. Limestone is a sedimentary rock consisting mostly of calcium carbonate and is formed from the remains of ancient sea creatures such as oysters, mussels, and other ancient shellfish and invertebrates, that have dropped to the sandy bottom of ancient seas, and then compressed over millions of years. Limestone is a common stone found in many parts of the world in good abundance. Limestone generally varies in earthy colors such as off-white, to a buff or beige color. If the limestone contains the mineral dolomite, it becomes harder in nature and can be polished to a shine much like marble can. It's best uses are for structural walls, entry walls, floors, fireplace surrounds, vanities and shower walls. It is generally not recommended for kitchen countertops and wet bars because fruit juices and alcohol products can stain it and limestone is prone to scratches. Before use, it is usually treated with a sealant.
Return to FAQ indexA: Travertine is a variety of limestone that is formed in pools by the precipitation of hot mineral-rich spring water. It is a form of marble that is less dense than high-grade marble. The holes characteristic of travertine, were created when carbon dioxide bubbles were trapped as the stone was being formed. It is a highly porous calcite. Travertine can have a honed surface, or the holes can be filled and then polished to a high gloss. It is best used in entry walls, floors, fireplace surrounds, vanities, shower walls, tub decks and mosaics. It is not recommended for kitchen and wet bar countertops as it can be stained by fruit juices and alcoholic products, as well, it is prone to scratches. Its colors usually range from beige to brown. It does require some special care and some cleaning products can be destructive to travertine surfaces.
Return to FAQ indexA: Soapstone is a soft metamorphic rock consisting mostly of talc. It is more porous than marble and limestone, and is available in fewer colors than marble: typically it's available in grays and gray/greens.. It is best used in accent areas, entry walls, fireplaces, vanities and shower walls. Soapstone is not recommended for kitchens and wet bars because it can be stained by fruit juice and alcohol and it is prone to scratches. If used in kitchens, it must be properly sealed with several coats of sealer, typically olive or linseed oil. This sealing process must occur on a regular basis.
Return to FAQ indexA: Slate is a fine-grained, metamorphic rock, commonly derived from sedimentary rock shale. It is composed mostly of micas, chlorite and quartz. It is best used for floors, walkways and roofing and recently has been used attractively for kitchen countertops and wet bars. It is a dense composite that is very tough and typically comes in blacks, grays and greens, however other beautiful colors can also be found in slate products. Slate colors within the same color family often vary. Veined patterns from overseas have also recently been introduced. Unless its surface has been honed smooth, slate's surface can be recognized by its distinct cleft pattern. Note that it is a durable, easy care surface.
Return to FAQ indexQ: What is the difference between ceramic tile and porcelain tile?
A: For centuries, ceramic tile has graced the surfaces of temples, homes and buildings and provided an excellent material for containers and utensils. Discovered and enhanced by the ancients for its enduring qualities, ceramic tile is generally identified by its red clay content. Typical uses for ceramic tile are countertops, backsplashes, vanities and flooring. Requiring a stronger material than ceramic, porcelain tile is developed by composing finer bisques, finishes and firing methods. Considerably stronger than ceramic, porcelain tiles can be used for all of the interior uses that ceramic tile can, and can also withstand the extremes of exterior applications as it is more resistant to extremes in temperatures. Porcelain typically lasts a lifetime and can mimic the beauty of natural stone.
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