Collection & Materials
Every stone is unique and different. Each material has its own pro’s and con’s per application. Below, you can read the unique profiles of the kinds of stones and tiles available for your project. Our designers can help you select the right materials based on your needs
For care guides and tips for materials, see our “Maintenance” page by clicking here. We also have edge profiles to help you choose the right design for your project.
Granite
An igneous rock with grains large enough to be visible with the unaided eye. It forms from the slow crystallization of magma below Earth’s surface.
Characteristics – Granite is the most durable of all natural stones, its acid resistant and very hard to scratch and etch. With the proper sealers, it can also be stain resistant.
Marble
A metamorphic rock that forms when limestone is subjected to the heat and pressure of metamorphism.
Characteristics – Marble is a softer stone that is very sensitive to acids and high traffic areas. It can be maintained with proper sealers and cleaners. It can also be re-polished or honed to bring back the natural warmth and beauty of the stone.
Quartzite
A non-foliated metamorphic rock that is produced by the metamorphism of sandstone.
Characteristics – Quartzite’s vary in density and compressive strengths, some are acid resistant and others are not. For the most part, most Quartzite’s achieve the look of a marble with the durability of granite.
Travertine
A white massive concretionary form of calcium carbonate which is a resultant of past springs (especially hot springs) or rivers beds.
Characteristics – The pores and natural crevasses in Travertine are typically filled with a mastic or epoxy to seal the exposed surfaces. Sealing the stone with the appropriate stone sealer is still recommended.
Onyx
A form of chalcedony or microcrystalline type of quartz. Like the other stones in the chalcedony family, onyx has a smooth, waxy luster.
Characteristics – Onyx is the jewel of modern-day stone surfaces. It’s brilliant colors and unique finishes are the benefits of such a delicate and fragile material. It is also very sensitive to acids and heavy traffic, very similar to marble.
Limestone
A sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate and calcite.
Characteristics – Limestone do not polish to a very high sheen, so are typically offered in a honed or tumbled finish. The honed or tumbled finish also make the stone very susceptible to staining, an appropriate limestone sealer is recommended to ease maintenance.
Soapstone
A metamorphic rock that is composed primarily of talc, with varying amounts of other minerals. Its name is derived from its “soapy” feel and softness.
Characteristics – Soapstone is extremely resilient to staining and excellent for conducting heat. It’s unique characteristic make a very appealing for counter top surfaces. Soapstone can be used untreated or it can be sealed with an enhancer sealer.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain Tiles are glazed or un-glazed and can be made using a white or colored ceramic body composed of a mix of clays and feldspars. High mechanical strength and very good frost resistance.
Characteristics – Out of all the surfaces available for interiors, porcelain is hardest of all materials and requires the least maintenance. Even though it is virtually maintenance free, the proper cleaner is recommended to ease maintenance.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tile is tile made of clay that has been put through a firing process in a kiln, under very high heat to harden the tile body and to create the surface glaze.
Historically, unglazed tile was fired once, glazed tile was fired twice.
Characteristics – Depending on the type of ceramic, some tiles may be sensitive to acid cleaners. A neutral based cleaner is recommended for daily maintenance.
