Ideas on How to Install Natural Stone

Natural stone is a beautiful housing material that has some amazing characteristics and unique properties that stands among other housing materials. Installing a natural stone into a new home whether its granite, limestone, or sandstone adds beauty and value to your home. However, maintaining the natural beauty of this wise and timeless sustainable choice of experts requires a strong bond and commitment from the homeowners.

Natural stone on floors offers a touch of class and elegance or a realistic look to an outdoor and indoors. No matter where you wanted to install it, there is a type of natural stone that fits the place and suits your style. From solid marbles to a blocks of limestone or a cut of granite, natural stone provides durable beauty and class.

Natural stone is different from artificial stone due to its varied design pattern and texture. Every stone have its unique size and shape thus they differ from each other. However, you can utilized their variations by creating a unique pattern to create a unique look for your flooring. Below are some ideas on how to install natural stone flooring.

First, you should prepare the area where you would like to install the natural stone. Measure the area and arrange the tiles in a pleasing pattern to picture out how your project will look like when finished. Make sure that the tile surfaces are evenly distributed, and the surface should not have dents or spots to evenly place the tiles. You can use a plywood or water-resistant backer board to create a well uniform leveled base. You should also determine the style and pattern of the floor layout. If you are bored of the regular check designs, then you can cut the tiles diagonally and combine different colors and patterns to create a unique look for your floors.

Second, purchase a grout that is specifically made for a stone that you choose. Because different stones retain moisture at various rates and because the surfaces vary from rough with holes to glass smooth, it is very important to choose the correct grout.

Third, you can begin laying your natural stone tiles and you can use a straight chalk lines on the sub floor as guides. Keep in mind that the last tiles will be uneven so plan to install them in a place not frequently seen. You can use a rubber trowel, a sponge or your hands covered in heavy duty rubber gloves to apply the grout. Clean grout haze after the stone has set for an hour. Use fresh water and a clean, damp sponge. Wipe the area several times, until no haze is left.

If the tiling surface is uneven, you can even it out by adding a cement layer on the top. Make sure that the surface is free from dust. This ensures that there are no air-gaps between the surface and natural stone during the installation process. Hence, you'll be able to prepare a floor or wall tile that renders it service for a long time without posing any maintenance issues.

Lastly, spray the natural stone with a fine mist of water after letting the project set for one day. Spray for three days. After three days, apply stone sealer.

If ever you are not sure about your installation abilities, you can seek professional help for your natural stone installation.