Carefully choose the material that forms the desired surface while maintaining its structural integrity.
Custom-made stone coverings with non-standard characteristics can be made. Special patterns are used for this purpose.
Special machines are used to cut the stone.
It is not recommended to use a stone with a rough surface where moisture can get on it. Non-slip inserts, strips with a rough surface or with grooves will help to make the stone coating less slippery.
It is not recommended to use burnt stone for floor coverings, as its top layer will quickly wear off.
When ordering a stone, always take into account the natural losses during cutting and processing.
Installation
If you are not an expert, do not try to install the stone yourself; contact professionals.
Always follow the recommendations of the manufacturerinstallation and processing of stone.
Place the stone on an appropriate base (usually a dry, clean surface, without traces of wax or drying oil). The choice of fixing agent depends on the substrate. Granite, marble, travertine and limestone are easily split, so it is better to install them on a surface made of fiberboard or wood or use them as thick slabs. As a rule, the stone is fixed to the substrate using silicone-based glue. Natural slate and sandstone are processed manually, so the thickness of the slabs can be different. The glue layer compensates for this difference.
Make sure that the floor is able to support the weight of the stone. Wooden floors may need to be reinforced.
Mix the stone tiles before installation. Humidity can change the color of the stone, so make sure it is dry before starting the installation. The colors of the tiles from different batches may vary, so don't try to match them.
The masonry can be straight or zigzag. Issues related to the placement of expansion joints should be resolved at the preparation stage, taking into account existing expansion joints, joints between different materials, floor area and door location.
Grout is usually used after the glue has solidified. In areas of high temperature fluctuations, it is recommended to use a plastic grout.
The sealing compound enhances the color of the stone, protects and facilitates its care, but it can also change the appearance and make the stone more slippery.
Care
Make sure that the edges of the stone are protected during processing - this way you will avoid chipping.
During installation, the stone must be protected from changing weather conditions: overheating, rain or frost can slow down the hardening of the adhesive.
After installation, protect the stone until all other work is completed. Wet plaster or paint is very difficult to remove from the surface of the stone without damaging it.
Most types of stone (with the exception of the most durable polished granites) are treated with a sealing compound before and after grouting to protect them from contamination and facilitate maintenance. The type of composition is selected depending on the rock type. For example, limestone has a porous structure and these pores must be completely "sealed" with a compound, while the sealing compound is applied to a non-porous stone for only a few seconds. Follow the recommendations of the suppliers. Periodically, the composition is reapplied. But: improperly applied sealing compound is very difficult to remove.
Always follow the recommendations of the manufacturera stone care clinic. Do not use strong abrasives. Sweep the stone floor regularly, and remove any spilled liquid immediately with a cloth soaked in water or (if necessary) a neutral detergent.
Limestone. It is sensitive to water and chemicals. Scratches and stains easily form on the surface, therefore, a sealing compound treatment is necessary. With proper care, it retains its excellent appearance. Wipe it with a damp cloth.
Marble. Although marble is resistant to water, it can be damaged by substances containing acids/alkalis. Clean with a suede cloth and neutral detergents. Marble retains its bright color if it is treated with a sealing compound and natural wax is applied periodically.
Granite. Wear-resistant, does not require special care. Clean with water, never use polishes.
Slate. Scratches can easily form on the surface of the slate. Clean with a mild detergent, polish with a nylon pad.
Quartzite. It is not sensitive to low temperatures and atmospheric pollution, and is practically not susceptible to erosion.
Travertine. The sealing compound wears out over time, and the coating needs to be repaired. Open a new account at 1xBit Casino using the 1xbet promo code once you register, you can claim your bonus. A 100% deposit bonus is available for new players. At the casino, the bonus is worth up to €1950 or currency equivalent. If you opt for the sports bonus you can claim up to $130, which is 30% more than the standard new player offer.