Tuesday 28 October 2014

Bluestone Pavers, Features and Maintenance

Bluestone pavers
In building and architectural sector, natural stones are growing rapidly in popularity. There are different types of natural stones and their sub-types. Each of them is unique, purposeful in its own way. The most important factor makes people to go with options of any type of natural stones is combination functional and aesthetical values. In this blog we are discussing about type of Bluestone paver. This stone type is used for flooring in properties in different areas inside and outside. This stone features durability, elegance and attractive look to property. People use bluestone paver stones to create not only patios but driveways, sidewalks and even countertops too. So it is pretty much clear that the material is very versatile as well. Another beneficial feature of stone is it is not very porous in result it is difficult to stain a bluestone paver patio. This stone does not absorb oil and water cannot permeate the surface either. This eliminates the risk of forming mold and mildew on the pavers. There are some easy things people can do to maintain it and to ensure the bluestone paver patio remains worry-free.

•    A routine cleaning is required of every type of flooring installed by any type of stone! So, it applies for bluestone pavers as well. After broom and sweeping away any leaves, twigs, gravel and dirt, along with anything else that may be present; rinse the patio off with the garden hose. The allow it to dry completely before continuing on. Well, using quality cleaning agents or products are always recommended.

•    Over a period of time mud and dust materials can stick to the bluestone pavers. Those are not always possible ad easy to remove with a garden hose. So people may simply need to scrub the patio down. There are scrubbing agents available in market. Another way is to use dish soap with warm water and scrubbing brush to clean the patio. Rinse the patio off with clean water after several minutes.

•    As discussed above, bluestone is not porous that is why stains do not usually form on them. But, after years of use the pavers can weaken enough and can be stained by materials like grease and oil. By using quality cleaning agent, stains can be removed.

•    Last but not the least! Sealing of a bluestone paver patio after scrubbing is important. There are dozens of high quality stone sealers on the market. By consulting the package to make sure getting the right kind, people can apply it using a standard paintbrush.

Monday 27 October 2014

Characteristics and Uses of Granite Pavers

Natural stones are being used for construction of different areas in properties. People prefer using types of natural stones because of their qualities and features. They hold functional and aesthetical values. One of the types of natural stones is Granite stone pavers. In this blog, discussion is about characteristics and uses of granite stone pavers.

Starting with the features or characteristics of this very purposeful type of stone paver; it is one of the most durable stones. It is used in most artistic and   architectural applications. It looks elegant and enhances the beauty of the property. People not only use this stone paver for interiors but also use it for exteriors or for outdoor sculpture. Granite stone pavers are visibly granular. They are igneous rock. Generally, this type of stone is available in range of colors. There are lighter to darker shades accessible. If we compare granite stone with calcareous sandstones or marble and limestone (the other types of natural stones), granite stone is not an acid soluble. It is much more resistant to the effects of acidic solutions. It is much more resistant to the effects of rainwater and other cleansing agents. Nevertheless, when it comes to maintenance and cleaning, one should always use high quality cleaning and sealing agents. The granite stone pavers are very purposeful as they show much lower rates of deterioration. They have lower water absorption. They are harder than other natural stones such as marbles, limestones and sandstones. Coming on the uses of these natural stones, typically, they are used for a variety of structural and decorative purposes. People prefer using it for exterior decoration as well as interiors. These types of Granite pavers are great options for homeowners who want to create an outdoor patio as well. These are used for beautiful patio space outdoors or for use in driveways and walkways as well. Manufactures and suppliers offer a large range of beautiful granite pavers and granite tiles. They offer a range in a variety of sizes and colors. This helps people choosing the best suited option that goes with the look of property.  Being the strongest and extremely dense granite pavers are scratch resistant and easy to maintain. These pavers not only give an appealing look but also add aesthetical value to property.

Teakwood Sandstones – Benefits and Maintenance

Benefits of Teakwood Sandstones


Teakwood sandstone
There are several types of natural stones are available. Different stone-types in inform of tiles and blocks etc, are being used in construction of different areas in residential as well as commercial properties. The natural stones and their types have become so much popular choices because they are functional as well as hold aesthetical values. One of the types of natural stones is Teakwood sandstone. It is a fine grained ceramic colored sandstone that not only bears beautiful patterns formed by brown veins throughout the surface but also enhance look of property or areas where it has been installed, used. Pavers and tiles are available in this beautiful Teakwood Sandstone. This very unique type of Sandstone is dense and is used for a variety of settings. People are so sure of using this type of sandstone for their landscape due to it features, qualities and benefits. It is available in beautiful elegant color. Different sizes and shapes are also available and it is worth using because it is very durable.  Cleaning is easy and maintenance is easy as well.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Teakwood Sandstones


Remember, that pre-sealing is recommended for Teakwood Sandstones to achieve the maximum resistance against staining and efflorescence from underneath the sandstone tiles & pavers. This may be caused by water soluble minerals. One important thing to remember is that all six sides are required to be pre-sealed. Do not miss out any of from all six sides. After this tiles and pavers are laid and even then they are required to be sealed with the recommended surface sealer. It is important to use premium water based sealer because it is designed for all natural stones, used in indoors and outdoors. It can give maximum stain protection. Most important feature is it does not change the original color of the stones. It keeps the color intact for longer period of time along with protecting the stones from the weather. Also it does not make the surface slippery. Because it gets penetrate really deep into the stones, the more of the stones it seals. Strictly consider not to use any harsh cleaning chemicals on these stones for example, acidic substance for cleaning purposes. Only natural stone cleaning products are recommended. People can find quality cleaning products for natural stones, and products for maintenance of natural stones and types offered by Suppliers.

Tuesday 21 October 2014

Natural Stone Type – Sandstone Pavers

Sandstone pavers are one of the most popular natural stones. They are used in the building trade contemporarily. Not only in residential but for commercial purposes as well, the type of stones are being used. Let’s understand how this natural stone type is originated. This stone type originates from the ocean and made by the erosion of quartzite sediments. After a period of time quartzite sediments come together to form large boulder type rocks and that creates sandstones. The first important feature of sandstone is that it is a natural stone. Secondly, these pavers are very rich in color. They are attractive and eye-catching. They enhance beauty of the property. They are so attracting and look just beautiful because of their aesthetical value. One of the natural beauties/ aesthetical values is that no two pavers will ever be the same in color. Also, as they are very natural in color that they will blend-in with current landscaping and outdoor color schemes. They go with any type of interior or exterior of the property. Another beneficial feature is that they become more elegant as the time goes by! However, their maintenance is very important, cleaning and sealing etc are very important. Sandstone pavers are used for flooring needs. Most people believe that using sandstone paver is the right choice because it offers an elegant and classical feel to wherever installed or applied. Durability, hard wearing, and long lasting features are some of the necessary functional values. People prefer sandstone pavers to apply or install around residential homes in areas such as Patios, Barbeque areas, Balconies, Garden paths and Steps etc. Because of their toughness feature they can withstand heavy foot traffic. They are just suitable for many heavy ornaments like garden statues etc. You must have seen Sandstone commonly used on residential driveways. Heavy duty and sturdy feature are the reasons behind it. There are several benefits and advantages of using sandstone pavers for different areas in and around property. There are several manufacturers and suppliers offering best quality natural stone in different colors, sizes and shapes. On special requests, manufacturers and suppliers also provide natural stones in custom-shape and size. The natural stones are tough or hard when it comes to functionality or long lasting services. But these are soft when it comes to cut them into a custom-shape.

Sunday 19 October 2014

Marble tile: An excellent option for flooring

When you are renovating your house or office then flooring is one such element that you just cannot afford to ignore. And there are plenty of options available when it comes to flooring. However, just because there are not many options which are as good as marbles. This is one of those options which are known for its beauty, elegance, grace and durability, all at the same time. The very fact that these flooring stones provide its users with a number of benefits over other flooring stones makes them a very popular and well liked stone across the globe. Therefore, you should not make the mistake of believing that it is only liked in certain parts of the world, as is believed by most people. So if you have plans to enhance the look and beauty of your house, then you should take marble tiles into consideration at all cost before considering other options.

Marble flooring
A lot of people, however, prefer not to go for marble tiles because they are much more expensive than other flooring tiles. However, when it comes to flooring price should never be your sole criteria. The people who make the mistake of making price their prime consideration often end up repenting their choice later on as the cheaper ones do not prove to be as durable as marbles. Therefore, you might be able to save some money on flooring by going for cheaper option but after a few years, when you see that the stone flooring that you have installed recently is withering away, you will be made to realize that going for a cheaper option was a costly mistake on your part as you would have no other option but to replace it with other stones, thus making the entire process much more costly than marble flooring.

Marble stones are very durable and do not ask for much maintenance either. They are, in fact, one of the most durable flooring stones on offer in the market these days. Therefore, even if they do prove a bit costly initially, you will find that they will last for a very long period of time without requiring much maintenance on your part. This is what makes them an excellent option as far as return on investment is concerned. Add to it the beauty and elegance of this stone which makes it an evergreen option for all sorts of properties, be it residential or commercial.

Thursday 16 October 2014

Cleaning and protecting Travertine Floorings

Functional plus aesthetical values of travertine stone are the reasons behind its popularity. This is a type of natural stone that gained tremendous popularity among people, as they prefer using this stone for construction in properties. Travertine stones in form of tiles are being used for floorings, patios and for interior decoration as well. Travertine stones are durable and last longer if they are maintained in a proper manner.

Let’s discuss on how to protect and clean natural stone type Travertine Stone:

•    Natural travertine stone is less dense than other stone type such as granite. It becomes important to test and seal the stone, in case a person has travertine stones or flooring installed in the bath, kitchen, dining room, etc. Sealing will help in the event of a spill of red wine, cranberry juice or another aggressive agent, especially on countertops and floors. Because this type of stone is sensitive to acidic liquids.

•    Another important tip to keep travertine clean and new-looking, make sure you wipe-up spills immediately, if any. As this stone is also sensitive to things like tomato sauce, ketchup and certain carbonated beverages. You should make sure to clean up the area quickly using hot water and a stone cleaning product. Many people use vinegar, lemon or orange cleaning agents, bleach, ammonia or store-bought products that contain acids, which should be avoided strictly, completely. In fact, you should use high quality stone cleaning products only.

•    One tip is to dust mop a travertine floor. Make sure you are using a clean non-treated, dry dust mop. It is better if you can dust mop regularly. And it will be best if you use a wet mop with hot water and a specially formulated stone cleaning agent once is a week. Avoid vacuuming stone flooring because vacuum machine can create chips and cracks.

•    You must have placed door mats and carpet runners in some areas in your house. These mats and carpets should be used to help keep foot traffic from bringing in dirt and elements that will damage the travertine.

•    There can be events when travertine flooring may get stained. If through the normal cleaning procedures you are unable to fix the problem, then you should use a poultice. A simple paste can be made by combining a formulated stone cleaner with baking powder. Put and smooth this paste over the stain and cover it with a clear plastic wrap. Let it be there for several days and the poultice will slowly draw the stain out. You can then remove the poultice with warm water and buff with a cotton cloth.

Wednesday 15 October 2014

Cobblestone with functional and aesthetical values

Cobblestone for pathways and driveways

Cobblestones
Wide range of natural stones is being used for construction purposes since years. In recent time, the demand has been increased due to the qualities and features of such natural stones. Because the type of natural stone holds both the values – functional and aesthetical, people prefer these stones to be used in constructions of residential and commercial properties. One of the types is Cobblestones. The largest range of cobblestones is easily available in market, with manufactures and suppliers due to purposefulness. In Ancient time, cobblestones were used to build European properties. These stones are now being used for construction in gardens, pathways, patios and driveways. This natural cobblestone has quality of durability. These beautiful and attractive stones are available in different texture, color and shapes. They have lasting appeal to any design scheme.

Range of Cobblestones


These Natural Cobblestones come in square or rectangular shapes that meld with the landscape while introducing a pleasing geometric pattern. A wide range of stone cobbles in natural hues and a variety of finishes is available. Range is accessible from crisp lines to tumbled edges. Such stones give each project a truly unique look. These natural stones have been proved one of the most purposeful and perfect option to create or to construct pathways, driveways and patios etc outside home/property. These stones have been well-liked option for streets and sidewalks for centuries. People are cautious about functional and aesthetical values. They want both. They do not compromise with any of them for any of them. There are several types of natural stones available such as travertine, limestone, sandstone etc. Manufacturers and suppliers provide the largest range of all types of natural stones to all their clients. People can go through the website that suppliers maintain to provide product or supplies-information. There are experts as well to help people understand what type of natural stone will be best suited to their requirements and purposes. Experts will help people finalizing the best natural stone to create or construct the innovative, attractive and functional floors, driveways, pathways or patios etc. Now days, different types of natural stones are used for decorating properties, for example, people use these natural stones to build or construct retaining walls. Also, they use these stones in interior decoration of property and use these stones for exterior of properties as well.

Friday 10 October 2014

Interesting facts about travertine flooring



If you have purchased a new house and are on the lookout for an elegant and affordable flooring option, then travertine flooring is one of the options that you should never overlook. These sorts are stone are among those which exhibit the natural depth of the stone. It is through this way that these stones are able to greatly enhance the aesthetic value of any house they are installed in and take its elegance and beauty to a new level altogether. However, it does not mean that this stone is devoid of any sort of limitations or cons, but when you consider its highlighting points, you will find that it easily supersedes some of the downsides this flooring stone has. While purchasing these stones, or any flooring stones for that matter, it is important that you do take your own lifestyle and preferences into account before making the purchase. By doing so, you will be able to maximize its functionality to the fullest and get full value for your money. 

What is traverntine?

This type of flooring stone is actually a type of limestone that gets formed after deposition of minerals over a long period of time, particularly during hot springs. Being a limestone, it has calcium carbonate as its major component, which is the same mineral that is used for the purpose of making stalactites and stalagmites. 

These tiles are being used for not only decades but centuries. It is widely known for its durability and texture. You will find these stones being extensively used in some of the ancient and popular Roman buildings and architecture. Colossium, for instance, is a popular landmark in Italy that has travertine stonefloorings in it. You will find them in a lot of other older and ancient buildings as well. 

Benefits of Travertine flooring

One of the highlighting features of this stone is that it is very durable and therefore, can last for a considerable period of time without asking for any sort of maintenance as such. To judge the quality of the stone, its MOH is measured. The higher the MOH, the better will be its quality. In most stores, you will travertine floorings between MOH scale of 3-4 rating, which is equal to that of marble. However, you will have to use sealant on a periodical basis to maintain its quality and for it to be able to withstand heavy foot traffic with ease.

How to use stone pavers


If you have a garden area at your residence and feel that something is missing, then it is time that you give it a touch of elegance and make it a bit unique by installing stone or granite pavers. Not only such stones solve decorative purpose, but also prove quite practical as well. Most of the people who have garden space in their house prefer to treat it as an eye refreshing thing rather than taking pains to clean the dirt. And it is for this very reason that installing stone pavers makes such a lot of sense. These stones can ad quite a bit of sparkle to your residential property such as garden area or the backyard. You can use these stones to build a walkway like structure that can then be used to connect one point to the other. Just make sure that you install it in such place that can be termed as the traffic area of your garden or backyard, the area which is used the most by your family members while using that space. So let the paver do the job for you and let them act as steps that can be used to walk while walking on garden or backyard. 

There is a wide range of paving material that can be used for garden as well as backyard area. You have the option of going for brick pavers, natural stone paver and even wood pavers. But if you are looking for both, looks as well as durability, then granite pavers should be your preferred choice. Stone paver is also a good option if you do not want to spend extra amount of money on walkways. These sorts of pavers are ideal for rustic and earthy charm as well as the rustic effect that they provide to the pathways. 

In case, you happen to be a bit too demanding or a bit too choosy, then you can also go for a garden medallion as well as these are also made of stone. Not only will it add beauty to your house, but also give your residential property a very distinct and unique look which will then attract the attention of one and all. 

While installing stone pavers, make sure that you have a clear idea about the place where you want to install them. The path you choose should be such that it complements the overall look of your garden.

 

All you need to know about marble tiles



Do you find yourself in a confused state of mind as to whether you should go for marble flooring for your residential or commercial property or not? Then you have come to the right place as this article will take you through the many benefits these sorts of stone floorings have on offer. There are a lot of advantages of these floorings, especially when you decide to use it for your residential property. These types of tiles have been used extensively across different parts of the globe. The highlighting feature of this stone is not that it just known for affluence but also for the fact that it is being used as an effective flooring option in all sorts of places to help maintain the room’s elegance and functionality at the same time. These tiles are known for denoting tasteful as well as regal beauty without making its purchasers compromise on the practical aspects of stone floorings.
One of the reasons behind the immense popularity of these stones is that no two marble stones are alike, which is the reason why it is being preferred by people across the globe. These types of stones have vein like designs all over it and each stone has unique and distinct patterns. Moreover, these patterns are at times applied across a varying degree of shapes and size and colors. This is the reason why marble tiles are used in all sorts of ways not only to enhance the beauty of the house but to take its functionality and elegance to a different level altogether. 

The huge variety available in marble flooring helps a great deal as it helps people to use them in different sorts of places and for a wide range of purposes as well. The quality of these tiles is as wide as the patterns and designs themselves. Therefore, you can purchase the tiles based on your budget as the price of these marble tiles vary according to the quality of stones that is being purchased. The more unique and elegant the pattern and texture would be, the higher will be its price. Moreover, the durability of the stone also increases proportionately with price. 

Marble tiles can also be categorized into glazed and unglazed category. Glazed tiles are much more water resistant than the unglazed ones, and are therefore preferred by people around the world.

Things you need to keep in mind while using stone flooring



Stone flooring has been among the most popular flooring options for centuries across the globe. They are available in an array of colors and designs, and the fact that they are quite durable and not that much difficult to maintain makes them a great option for both residential as well as commercial property. In addition, their abundance in nature has gone on to make them a perennial option for all sorts of flooring purposes. However, if you consider them to be absolutely indestructible, then you are making a big mistake and heading toward disappointment as there are some common pitfalls that need to be avoided so as to make them last for a long period of time. Following are some of the common pitfalls that you need to be particularly careful of when caring for such floorings. 

First among these is the lack of dust mats. Dust, as you must know, happen to be among the biggest enemies of all sorts of floorings, including stone. It is the grit that leads to the wear and tear of every flooring material. The grit that comes to the house through air and shoes contains a wide range of minerals including quartz. When these sorts of materials are constantly rubbed over the stone flooring, it will lead to scratches, eventually making the stones lose their sheen and appeal. Therefore, if you happen to install stone flooring at your house, then you must make sure that such grit does not enter your house. And this can be achieved by placing dust collecting mat outside the floor. 

You must also avoid walking on the flooring with outdoor shoes. This is again an extension of the aforementioned point as the very purpose of doing so is to keep all sorts of dirt and grit and other materials outside the boundaries of your house. If you do not take care of the flooring, you will not be able to enjoy its beauty and elegance for a long period of time as such grits and dust will lead to its wear and tear in a very short period of time. Although it is true that stone flooring does not require much of maintenance but it does not mean that you should be act carelessly while handling them. So if you want your stone flooring to be durable and appealing to the eyes, then keep the aforementioned points in mind.