Natural Stone Tile

Posted By admin on January 17, 2011

Natural Stone Tile

Natural Stone Tile

Natural Stone Tiles Reviewed

Interest in all the Natural Stone Tiles continues to escalate, for example limestone, marble, and granite. This family of natural materials requires thorough understanding, laying by a professional tiler and an adequate care and maintenance program. Having said that, it is no exaggeration to say that ceramic tile manufacturers worldwide have become passionate about replicating the look of Natural Stone Tiles. There are ceramic tiles that look like timber, slate, marble, granite and in some cases the effect is so realistic you have to bend down and actually feel the material. That is interesting, because no matter which way you look at it, nobody really spends a lot of time feeling carpet or vinyl, but tile, in whatever form, invites consumers to touch it. It is as if that will impart a better understanding of its aesthetic possibilities or true potential.

Natural Stone cannot be truly imitated. No two pieces are really the same and it is important to recognise that it is necessary to exhibit as much care in material selection at the installation stage as it is at the point of purchase.

It is important to note that maintenance is a key issue, but in spite of potential difficulties, the Natural Stone Tile family offers magnificent potential for the creation of a floor or wall finish that will remain durable and aesthetically pleasing for a lifetime.

Limestone

Rock that is mainly made of calcite, a mineral form of calcium carbonate, is known as limestone. It forms when the carbonate crystallises out of solution. This can evolve in many different ways, leaving behind a different kind of limestone every time.

Most limestone is typically grey; however, almost every other colour has been found over time.

Limestone can form almost completely without the presence of acid from organisms. It is simply forced out of solution, by evaporation. More often, though, limestone is formed by the work of organisms, such as aquatic ones.

Limestone makes an excellent building material because it can be easily worked. It can even be used for the purification of waste water and gases! Most limestone tends to be of fairly uniform tonality but, as always, the exception confirms the rule - some limestones have strong markings, such as blotches or strong veins.

Marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock, formed when limestone is subjected to enormous forces inside the earth's crust. This process, called re-crystallization, causes changes in texture and composition. Fossilized materials, along with carbonates, form large, coarse grains of calcite. Any impurities present affect the mineral composition and the colour of the marble that forms.

Marble is found in many countries and in all corners of the globe.Today, the quarrying and production of marble is a very involved and highly automated process using a variety of purpose -built machines. Nevertheless, the human eye remains the crucial factor when evaluating and classifying the product.

Marble has long been valued for its beauty and strength; it was and still is widely used in buildings, monuments and sculptures. Even the ancient Greeks used marble for just this purpose; and who has not heard of Michelangelo, the undisputed master from Carrara who used marble for his statues?

Granite

Granite is classified as an igneous rock. It is formed when hot magma from the earth's core cools very slowly and crystallizes. The mineral grains that are formed are large enough to be clearly distinguishable; interlocked like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. This is what makes Granite very strong and durable - ideal for building and construction.

Granitic rock makes up a large part of every continent on this earth. Its main mineral ingredients - quartz, alkali and plagioclase feldspar, hornblende and biotite mica will - determine (by and large) its colour.

On rare occasions, such as volcanic eruptions, the granitic magma cools too quickly to form large crystals. The resulting rock, called rhyolite, has the same mineral composition as granite but is fine grained.

Granite is a popular material for surfaces subject to many and varied impacts, such as kitchen benches and vanities, steps and floors in 'high traffic' areas. Some granites have a quite spectacular appearance and are used for their visual impact, such as on facades.

Natural stone floor cleaning and polishing


Old Stone Oven 4467 14-Inch by 16-Inch Baking Stone
Old Stone Oven 4467 14-Inch by 16-Inch Baking Stone
List Price: $41.99
Sale Price: $36.95
You save: $5.04 (12%)
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Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
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Description

A baking stone for home oven use reminiscent of the stone baking ovens of earlier times. Over 30 years ago the Old Stone Oven Company first introduced the baking store for home use and it is still the best. Thicker than other stones available, it has a porosity and heat retention that is perfect for a good crust. The Old Stone Oven Pizza Stone duplicates crispy pizzeria quality pizza - crust and all- in a standard kitchen oven. The Stone can also be used to bake bread, rolls and biscuits giving them a very special texture and quality or as a warming tray to keep waffles, pancakes, fried chicken, etc warm until ready to serve.

Professional pizza and traditional European bread ovens are often lined with stone or brick. This is so heat is stored up and redistributed evenly. The resulting blast of heat from the Old Stone Oven rectangular pizza stone gives bread and pizza a nice chewy crust. The rustic French tarts called galettes are also well suited to a baking stone. To use the stone, place it in a cold oven and preheat to 500 degrees for pizza, or according to the recipe for bread or galettes. The stone is made of the same material that lines blast furnaces and kilns, so it can handle ultra-high temperatures. Wait until the baking stone is entirely cooled before attempting to clean it. Let it dry completely before using again. Some discoloration will occur over time; this is natural and will not affect baking. Using baking parchment may help delay that discoloration. Do not bake cookies, turnovers or other high-fat items on the stone; the stone would absorb the fat and proceed to produce smoke and bad odors. The stone comes with a flyer that contains detailed use and cleaning instructions, as well as recipes for bread, pizza dough, and two pizza toppings. --Garland Withers

Features

  • Pizza stone duplicates crispy pizzeria-style crust
  • Firebrick construction offers superior heat retention and distribution
  • Flat surface releases pizza or bread quickly and easily
  • Durable texture resists cracking caused by high temperatures
  • Measures 14 by 16 inches; includes recipe collection
StoneTech RVC4-1G Revitalizer Fresh Citrus Tile and Stone Cleaner, 1-Gallon
StoneTech RVC4-1G Revitalizer Fresh Citrus Tile and Stone Cleaner, 1-Gallon
List Price: $49.99
Sale Price: $42.06
You save: $7.93 (16%)
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Availability: Usually ships in 1 to 2 days
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Description

atural stone such as marble, granite, limestone, slate, terrazzo, travertine & sandstone. Ceramic Porcelain & Tile. Best suited for the most porous stone surfaces. DirectionsNote: Directions may vary depending on size.1. Spray directly on soiled area. 2. Wipe clean with a dry towel, lint-free cloth or sponge. No need to rinse. 3. Repeat for heavily soiled areas.Available Sizes (and Coverage)* 24 oz. Spray with Citrus or Cucumber scent * Wipes: 35 Wipes, 7" x 9" * Gallon Refill * Gallon Concentrate: 2,000 - 10,000 sq. ft.Related Products To protect your stone's natural beauty, seal your stone with BulletProofTM Sealer or Heavy Duty Sealer.

The StoneTech professional 1-gallon revitalizer tile and stone cleaner is a safe and effective neutral pH concentrated daily cleaner with protector for most natural stone, ceramic tile and grout. This easy to use liquid is safe, antibacterial, and biodegradable, and can cut grease, as well as clean. A fresh citrus scent make it great for countertops, while the coverage area provides up to 10,000 square feet of protection. This cleaner spray features mold and mildew resistant protector, and a built-in sealer to make surfaces easier to clean. The product is suitable for interior or exterior use, and is compatible with marble, granite, limestone, slate, terrazzo, travertine and sandstone, ceramic porcelain, and tile.

Features

  • Concentrated daily cleaner with protector for most natural stone, ceramic tile and grout
  • Mold and mildew resistant protector, and built-in sealer
  • Provides coverage for up to 10,000 square feet
  • Easy-to-use liquid is safe, antibacterial, and biodegradable
  • Great for countertops; fresh citrus scent
StoneTech 0703-0022 Revitalizer Fresh Citrus Tile and Stone Cleaner Wipes
StoneTech 0703-0022 Revitalizer Fresh Citrus Tile and Stone Cleaner Wipes
List Price: $12.99
Sale Price: $12.26
You save: $0.73 (6%)
  Eligible for free shipping!
Availability: Usually ships in 1 to 2 days
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Description

The StoneTech professional revitalizer tile and stone cleaner wipes are a safe and effective neutral pH concentrated daily cleaner with protector for most natural stone, ceramic tile and grout. The easy-to-use wipes are safe, antibacterial, and biodegradable, and can cut grease, as well as clean. They're great for countertops, and delivers a fresh citrus scent. This cleaner spray features mold and mildew resistant protector, and a built-in sealer to make surfaces easier to clean. The coverage area for each of the wipes are 7- by 9-inches. The product is suitable for interior or exterior use, and is compatible with marble, granite, limestone, slate, terrazzo, travertine and sandstone, ceramic porcelain, and tile.

Features

  • Concentrated daily cleaner with protector for most natural stone, ceramic tile and grout
  • Mold and mildew resistant protector, and built-in sealer
  • 7-by-9-inch coverage area for wipes
  • Easy-to-use liquid is safe, antibacterial, and biodegradable
  • Great for countertops; fresh citrus scent
StoneTech APCC4-1G Professional All-Purpose Stone and Tile Cleaner, 1-Gallon
StoneTech APCC4-1G Professional All-Purpose Stone and Tile Cleaner, 1-Gallon
Sale Price: $36.85
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Availability: Usually ships in 1 to 2 days
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Description

- Economical all purpose cleaner for everyday soils and spills all over the home. - Gentle, neutral formula is safe on stone. - Great for ceramic and porcelain tile Features + Benefits of Stone Care Cleaner: Cleans everyday messes Neutral, gentle formula Great for stone & ceramic tile floors Where to Use: Natural stone such as marble, granite, limestone, travertine, slate, terrazzo & sandstone. Ceramic tile, porcelain tile & grout. Directions: Note: Directions may vary depending on size. Spray directly on soiled area. Wipe clean with a dry towel, lint-free cloth or sponge. No need to rinse. Repeat for heavily soiled areas. Size: 1 Gallon Conc.

The StoneTech professional all-purpose stone and tile cleaner is a streak-free all purpose cleaner with a clean, fresh scent. While it's safe for all natural stone such as granite, marble, limestone, travertine, porcelain and ceramic tile, and grout, it also specially formulated to wipe away everyday soils and spills. Other features include a neutral pH formula that's safe for all types of natural stone, tile and grout, and a streak-free application, with no rinsing required. One gallon of cleaner provides coverage for up to 30,000 square feet.

Features

  • Streak-free all purpose stone and tile cleaner with a clean, fresh scent
  • Designed for many types of stone surfaces
  • Provides coverage for up to 30,000 square feet
  • Neutral pH formula that's safe for all types of natural stone, tile and grout
  • Streak-free application, and no rinsing required
Granite Gold GC0210 Stone & Tile Floor Cleaner 32 Fl. Oz.
Granite Gold GC0210 Stone & Tile Floor Cleaner 32 Fl. Oz.
Sale Price: $11.49
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Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
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Description

Designed by professionals with over 40 years in the stone industry, Granite Gold products over unsurpassed excellence in stone and tile care. Granite Gold Stone & Tile Floor Cleaner is designed to clean and condition natural stone floors without the harmful effects of harsh traditional cleaners. It quickly and safely removes all types of dirt and spills from heavily trafficked areas and requires no rinsing. The highly concentrated formula provides an excellent value for your money compared to other products. It also reduces mop streaks and maintains the beautiful, freshly cleaned shine longer. Contains no phosphates or ammonia and is non-toxic. Recommended for use on granite, marble, travertine, limestone, slate, ceramic, porcelain, and all other natural stone flooring.

Features

  • Highly concentrated formula
  • Requires no rinsing
  • Conditions and protects stone floors
  • Removes tough dirt and stains
  • Recommended for use on granite, marble, travertine, limestone, slate, ceramic, porcelain, and all other natural stone flooring
Formula 409 Natural Stone Cleaner 32 fl oz (946 ml)
Formula 409 Natural Stone Cleaner 32 fl oz (946 ml)
Sale Price: $6.99
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Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Description

Great on Granite & MarblepH-balanced formula cleans granite, marble

Features

  • 32 oz.
  • PH balanced formula cleans granite, marble and other stone surfaces
  • Streak free shine
  • Contains no phosphorus
  • the
MB Stone Care MB-2 Heavy Duty Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner (1 Qt.)
MB Stone Care MB-2 Heavy Duty Stone, Tile & Grout Cleaner (1 Qt.)
Sale Price: $15.95
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Description

This highly concentrated product is designed to clean the toughest soils from tiles, grout and all natural stones. It is a biodegradable, powerful cleaning agent, formulated with the latest cutting edge technology, to clean deep into your grout and any other treated surface effectively and easily.Also available in US Gallon (3.785 Liter) size

Features

  • Tile & Grout Cleaner
  • Natural Stone Cleaner
  • Specifically designed for Natural Stone applications
  • Won't harm Natural Stone
44x36
44x36" Flower Mosaic Accent Insert Natural Stone Tile
Sale Price: $420.00
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Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Description

Mosaics have endless uses and infinite possibilities! They can be used indoors or outdoors, be part of your kitchen, decorate your bathroom and the bottom of your pools, cover walls and ceilings, or serve as frames for mirrors and paintings.

Features

  • All natural stones
  • Completely hand-made
  • Beautiful design
  • Timeless artwork that will last a lifetime
  • Uses and display locations are unlimited!
30x40
30x40" Marble Mosaic Stone Natural Scene Art Tile Wall
Sale Price: $300.00
  Eligible for free shipping!
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Description

Mosaics have endless uses and infinite possibilities! They can be used indoors or outdoors, be part of your kitchen, decorate your bathroom and the bottom of your pools, cover walls and ceilings, or serve as frames for mirrors and paintings.

Features

  • All natural stones
  • Completely hand-made
  • Beautiful design
  • Timeless artwork that will last a lifetime
  • Uses and display locations are unlimited!
38x46
38x46" Marble Mosaic Stone Natural Scene Art Tile Wall
Sale Price: $440.00
  Eligible for free shipping!
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Description

Mosaics have endless uses and infinite possibilities! They can be used indoors or outdoors, be part of your kitchen, decorate your bathroom and the bottom of your pools, cover walls and ceilings, or serve as frames for mirrors and paintings.

Features

  • All natural stones
  • Completely hand-made
  • Beautiful design
  • Timeless artwork that will last a lifetime
  • Uses and display locations are unlimited!
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