Natural Stone Tiles

Tiles made from natural stone are the second major category of traditional floor tiles. Not all stones are suitable for flooring or easily cut into tiles. Three types of stone tiles are common:

• Marble
• Granite
• Slate

Surface Finishes

Marble, granite and slate tiles are usually available in two different surface textures or finishes: polished and honed.

Polished Finish

• Shiny and sleek looking
• Slippery when wet
  
  

Honed Finish

• Dull or matte texture
• Less slippery than polished surfaces
  
  

Other Finishes

• Marble is also available with a tumbled finish, giving it an antique, rustic appearance.
• Granite is also available with a flamed finish, created by exposing the stone's surface to extreme heat. The rough and deep texture of flame finishes gives these granite tiles a dramatic appearance, plus great traction for outdoor use.
• Slate tile's top surface is naturally cleft, providing good traction. Its smoother under-surface makes installation easier.