Next up in our tile FAQ series comes the conundrums that surround natural stone. With the rumour mill circulating that you couldn’t possibly use them outdoors (nonsense, by the way; natural stone is born and bred outside) and with heads across the nation being scratched over how often you should seal natural stone tiles, there’s more than a burning question or two waiting to be answered. So much so that we’ve split our natural stone tile questions into two features with part I coming right up…
We posed questions to our Head of Creative, Grazzie Wilson and here’s what she said:
1. Can natural stone be used in a shower?
Short answer, yes. Whether you’re sold on slate or in love with limestone, natural stone tiles can 100% be used in a shower. And contrary to common belief, marble tiles can join in on the fun too despite their porous nature. Be it a cubicle or a walk-in wet room, the same caveat applies when using natural stone tiles in a damp environment – they’re going to need sealing (skip to point three for tips on this) and they’re going to need TLC to keep them looking at their best. When it comes to natural stone, underfloor really is your friend.
2.Can natural stone be used outside?
If you’re wanting a sandstone terrace to sit on and soak up the sun then you’re in luck, because yes, natural stone
exterior tiles are no myth. By its very nature, stone is hardy and weather-resistant being quarried from the earth after all. Therefore
sandstone,
limestone and
slate outdoor tiles are yours for the taking to make your great outdoors is all that you’d hoped it could be. And if you’re looking to bring in a natural stone tile for your outdoors with a difference, consider the sustainably minded
Reform range – a collection crafted at a carbon neutral factory using combinations of recycled stone in a host of earthy tones. Just make sure that the stone you pick is suitable for exterior areas, you’ll usually find this noted in a product’s suitability section of a brand’s website or brochure.