Limestone Tiles: Burlington
Burlington homeowners have access to some of the finest natural stone companies in Canada. As natural stone tiles can be used in
many different areas of the house, and in various ways, choosing a stone supplier can be an important part of building or renovating your home.
First, it's important to choose a supplier that offers a wide variety of stone. Better companies have showrooms or warehouses filled with various types of stone for you to peruse. They'll welcome you to their showroom and be happy to help educate you about the types of stone and tiles available. One Ontario company even offers prospective customers an espresso when they arrive – and they estimate they've served over 70,000 cups of java!
That brings us to the next point: choose a company that's been in business for several years. Make sure the company you deal with has a good track record and a history of satisfied customers.
Select a family-owned company rather than a large chain. With a family company, stone is personally selected by an owner or trusted employee. Franchises tend to buy in bulk and the quality of the stone is almost always inferior.
Selecting Stone Tiles
The three main types of stone tiles are marble, granite and limestone/travertine. Each of these types has its own advantages and unique challenges. Choosing the right stone is always a balance between aesthetics and practicality, but all natural stone is durable, beautiful and strong. Here are some of the characteristics of the three main types of stone tiles:
- Granite. This is the most popular type of natural stone tile. Granite is incredibly strong and is available in a variety of colours, including classic "salt and pepper,” iron reds, Bahia blue, mustard yellow and ebony mahogany. Patterning can be slight or dramatic. Granite is quarried all over the world and various kinds of granite have different characteristics. Granite is also an affordable alternative to marble.
- Marble. Marble adds aesthetic and monetary value to your home. This high-end tile is both beautiful and elegant. Creamy tones, dark browns and blacks are available, all with the stone's trademark marbling veins.
- Limestone. Limestone is the most affordable stone, but only some kinds are suitable for flooring. Limestone is also available in a range of colours, although neutral tones such as beige, cream and light brown are the most common. Fine lines of quartz run through most limestone, giving it texture and sheen.
You may also choose a finish for your tile. These include:
- Polished – a shiny finish for harder stones;
- Honed – the most common finish, between matte and a slight sheen;
- Brushed – a textured surface; and
- Water Worn – a softer look with slightly contoured edges.
The Limestone Advantage
Limestone tile is durable and attractive. When it's sealed properly, it will look beautiful for years to come. Limestone makes great flooring for the kitchen, bathroom and other high traffic areas. It can also be the perfect flooring choice for rooms containing heavy furniture.
As well, limestone tile can be used on
countertops and walls to wonderful effect. Limestone tiles are 100 per cent natural, and help to create a healthy indoor environment for your family.
Burlington homeowners are discovering the limestone advantage!