Natural stone is one of the most popular and most effective materials for finishing facades, plinths, terraces, stairs, fireplaces, walls and other elements of a house or apartment. Stone has many advantages, such as strength, durability, environmental friendliness, aesthetics and versatility. Stone can create a variety of styles and moods, from classic to modern, from rustic to glamorous.
But is everything as perfect as it seems? Do natural stone have any disadvantages that should be considered before choosing? What types of stone exist, and how do they differ in their characteristics, quality, color, texture, shape, and size? How to choose, buy, deliver, install and care for natural stone? In this article, we will try to answer these and other questions, as well as give you tips on how to choose and apply natural stone for your project.
Advantages of natural stone
Natural stone has many advantages that make it one of the best finishing materials. Here are some of them:
Strength. Natural stone is a very strong and stable material that can withstand high loads, impacts, friction, bending, stretching and other mechanical influences. The Stone does not deform, crack, peel, lose its shape and size over time. The stone is also weather-resistant, such as solar radiation, wind, rain, snow, frost, hail, thunder and others. The Stone does not burn out, rot, corrode, or expose to biological contamination such as fungus, mold, moss, lichen, and others. The Stone has a long service life, which can reach hundreds or even thousands of years.
Environmental friendliness. Natural stone is a completely environmentally friendly and safe material that does not contain harmful substances, does not emit toxic gases, does not affect the microclimate of the room, does not cause allergies and other diseases. The Stone also has temperature-regulating properties that help maintain optimal indoor temperature and humidity, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. The Stone also has sound-proofing properties that help protect against outside noise and create peace and quiet in the middle. The Stone also has antistatic properties that help get rid of dust and dirt, improving air quality.
Aesthetics. Natural stone is a very aesthetic and attractive material that comes in a variety of colors, textures, patterns, patterns, shapes and sizes. Stone can create a variety of styles and moods, from classic to modern, from rustic to glamorous. Stone can emphasize the beauty and personality of a house or apartment, as well as reflect the taste and character of the owner. Stone can be harmoniously combined with other materials, such as wood, metal, glass, ceramics, fabric and others. Stone can add elegance, luxury, atmosphere and originality to a room.
Versatility. Natural stone is a very versatile material that can be used to finish any surface, in any room, in any climate. The stone can be used for both exterior and interior decoration, creating a unique and cozy interior. The stone can be used for both horizontal and vertical surfaces, creating various effects and compositions. The stone can be used for both large and small rooms, creating a sense of spaciousness and comfort. Stone can be used both for new buildings and for the restoration of old houses, creating a contrast or harmony with the historical context.
Disadvantages of natural stone
Natural stone, although it has many advantages, is not without some disadvantages that should be taken into account before choosing. Here are some of them:
Weight. Natural stone is a very heavy material that creates an additional load on the foundation, walls, floors and other structures of a house or apartment. The weight of a stone depends on its type, thickness, shape, and size. Usually, one square meter of stone weighs from 30 to 100 kilograms. Therefore, before choosing a stone, you need to check whether your house or apartment can withstand such weight, as well as whether it is possible to deliver the stone to the installation site without problems and damage.
Care. Natural stone, although it is a durable and stable material, needs regular and proper care to maintain its appearance, quality and functionality. Care for the stone depends on its type, finish, place of application and condition. Usually, stone care includes cleaning from dust, dirt, stains, deposits, limestone, fungus, Moss and other contaminants with a soft cloth, brush, water, soap, vinegar, citric acid or special products; impregnation, varnishing, polishing or painting to protect against moisture, temperature, UV light, mechanical damage, chemicals and other factors; repair, restoration, replacement or dismantling if necessary.
Cost. Natural stone is a rather expensive material that requires significant costs for purchase, delivery, installation and maintenance. The price of a stone depends on its type, quality, color, texture, shape, size, as well as on the region, Season, supplier and master. In addition, the stone needs special equipment, tools, glue, cement, joints, sealants and other materials for its processing and installation. Also, the stone needs qualified craftsmen who know the specifics of working with this material and can guarantee the quality and durability of the finish.
