FAQs
Natural Stones structural integrity and its diversity of color and texture, has been popular as a building material for centuries. To understand the natural characteristics of stone, it is important to have some understanding of stone and how it’s formed. It is in understanding the Geology of Stone or Rock that we can see its attributes and gain some insight into each stone’s character.
All of the stones used for building are formed by three different processes. These are:
Igneious – formed from molten rock (i.e. Granite)
Metamorphic – formed by the chemical and physical alteration of existing rock (i.e. Marble Quartzite)
Sedimentary – formed by the deposition and cementation of sediment. (i.e. Limestone, Sandstone, Slate)
We believe Marble can be a great material to use as Kitchen tops as well as floors and walls. It has been a sought after Natural Material for Centuries, due to its unique veining and fine grain structure which can give your design or space a look and feel only something as exclusive and beautiful as Marble can. Marble needs to be understood and seen in person to be appreciated, so come visit our stockyard to select you slabs.
It is always recommended to add a coat of sealer to your Natural Stone, sealers, depending on quality and also how often the stone is cleaned should last between 2 to 5 years (This can change depending on certain circumstances). Sealers act as an extra layer of protection against possible stains occurring. Every stone has different absorption rates and densities so it’s best to do a water test to see if your stone requires sealing. A video link will be added to this section to show how to seal your stone and how to do a water test
Natural Stone is very heat resistant, it is great for kitchen counter top use and even fireplace claddings, but everything has its limits and it’s not recommended to use natural stone inside a fireplace with direct flames as it may crack from Thermal Gradient. This means that the Rock heats up at different rates in different areas of the Stone, causing an uneven expansion and contraction of the material, which could lead to cracking.
Natural Stone can be finished in many different ways which can end up giving you a variety of different tones and textures. Some of these textures are explained below:
Polished: High Gloss finish, which brings out all the Stones minerals and crystal colours. Some materials polish up to a higher gloss than others, so again each materials polish can look different depending on the Stones composition. Suitable for many applications, but can be slippery on a floor or staircase.
Honed: This is a smooth satin finish which has more matt look and is not as glossy. The Materials colours might be more muted and slightly faded with this finish. This finish is also suited to multiple applications and can be slippery as a floor or Staircase.
Leather: This finish has a little more texture. If you enjoy feeling or seeing your stones veining or structure this is the finish for you. It is a matt finish which leaves the veining or pattern of the stone visible. This is great for Walls, floors and Counter tops.
Antique: Is a rugged finish which is gaining popularity for counter tops. Its gives the stone a more natural feel and also really looks minimalistic as it tones down the Stones colours while leaving it with a textured finish. Great for walls, floors and staircases as its non-slip.
Sawn: This refers to the finish given to the stone after it being cut. This finish has more of an even flat texture but is completely unpolished and raw. This is a finish best suited for flooring, staircases and walls. Also great for outdoor use.
Flamed: Is a rough non slip finish that really gives the stone a really non slip feel.Great for Walls, floors and staircases. This is a great option for outdoor use.
Waterjet: Is a finish that feels like Sandpaper and is great for Non slip areas, its rough finish is great for keeping the stone looking natural while still showcasing the stunning colours and crystals of the Rock. This is also a great finish for outdoor areas.
The entire Earth’s crust is made up of Natural Stone. This meaning we can never mine it all even if we tried, and only certain mines have been granted rights to mine. Granite is 100% Natural and is one of the only products that can be dumped straight back into the Earth without dire consequences as its 100% rock from the Earth. So yes, we believe Natural Stone is the Greenest option.
Natural Stone has varying costs depending on multiple factors, these factors include and are not limited to, the rarity of the material, the country of Origin, the demand for the Material, the materials density and more. It is best to get quoted on the material you love by a fabricator that will guide you through the process.
It is advised to go and see the Natural Stone slabs in person as a sample is definitely not going to give you a true representation of the slabs and Stone. There is nothing better than seeing and selecting the exact slab or slabs you will be using in your project. Once selected we get in contact with your preferred fabricator or Stone mason to get you quoted on your forever stone.
We have heard this before and it is often ended up leaving the client unhappy and disappointed with their finished product. We have been around long enough to know that Stone needs a skilled person to fabricate it. The knowledge and skill to Fabricate stone is passed on and is something that takes years to master as each material has its own fabrication needs that need to be mastered. Using a Fabricator that works on Stone regularly is recommended, they will know how to treat your stone just right.
Natural Stone can be used in outside applications depending on your expectations. Polished Marble and Limestone will weather outside and eventually lose its shine if left outside in the elements, we like to say it ages with time. Rocks like Sandstone, Granite and Quartzite are great for outdoors as they are more durable and are better performers under harsh conditions, this has got to do with the actual makeup of the Stone.