Nothing compares to the elegance, durability and natural beauty of stone flooring. If it is so universally admired, why doesn't everybody choose stone flooring? Often the reason lies in some misconceptions about stone. Some believe it is too expensive for their budget. Others don't realise what a wide variety of stones there are to choose from. When you look at the facts, the benefits of stone flooring far outweigh any of its perceived drawbacks.

Varieties of Stone Flooring

What do you think of when you think of stone flooring? Odds are, you think of only one or a few of the many varieties available. These are some of the many types of stone flooring available in Australia:

• Slate and quartzite are often mistaken for each other. However, upon closer inspection, you can see the glittering metallic flecks that distinguish quartzite from slate. When many people think of these stones, they visualise the grey toned varieties and are surprised to discover that they come in a multitude of colours and patterns.
• Marble and granite, too, are often confused for each other. There are many differences between marble and granite that make each of them worth looking into carefully. Marble is more porous than granite, but when properly sealed and polished, can be equally stain resistant. Both marble and granite have been the choice of the world's greatest sculptors throughout history because of their extraordinary beauty and durability.
• Probably because of its name, sandstone is often believed to be the colour of beach sand. Actually, it also comes in stunning varieties of blues and reds as well, with intermediate tones ranging from green to deep purple. The beiges vary from pale sandy to cappuccino shades.
• Limestone is a readily available type of stone in Australia and there are also imported varieties available. Colours range from beiges and yellows to blues, greys and blacks. Limestone is often the first choice of landscape architects because of its extreme density and natural elegance.
• Travertine is characterised by its pitted surface and deep fissures. As a wall surfacing, these add depth and character to the stone, but on floors, they are filled, levelled and sealed so they don't become dirt traps. However, the tiles still retain their multi-dimensional character.

Benefits of Stone Flooring

When you combine the enormous range of colours and textures of stone with the many different cuts and edge treatments available, you have an almost unlimited number of designer options to choose from. You can then choose whether or not you want a natural, semi-gloss or gloss surface treatment. Every stone floor is a unique work of craftsmanship.

In warm and hot climates, nothing is better than stone. If you experience cooler winters in your area, it gives you the opportunity to add area rugs during the cooler months, for a seasonal decorator change. If you prefer, you can even install a heated floor for warmth on even the coldest nights.

Unlike carpet floors, which often hide allergens that can be difficult or impossible to remove, stone floors can be easily vacuum cleaned or washed. This makes them a hygienic choice.

Yes, your initial investment in a stone floor is likely to be more expensive than most of the alternatives. However, when it comes to value for money, you will discover that there are many advantages to stone floors. They will last a lifetime and add tremendous value to your home should you decide to sell. In the long run, stone flooring is one of the most cost effective investments you can make in your home.