Everything You Need to Know About Stone Finishes

Nothing says jaw-dropping elegance in home design like stonework. From flooring to wall cladding to fireplaces and countertops, stone adds unexpected texture to your design and highlights the elements around it.

Nothing says jaw-dropping elegance in home design like stonework. From flooring to wall cladding to fireplaces and countertops, stone adds unexpected texture to your design and highlights the elements around it.  

Before you start adding to your Pinterest boards, it’s important to understand which stone finish most suits your space and your needs. Keep reading for everything you need to know about stone finishes.

What Type of Finish to Use and Where?

There are many different types of stone finishes, each with an optimal use in the home. Some are better suited for flooring while others make stunning countertops.  

The first option is a polished finish. The buffing and polishing process removes any visible pores from the stone leaving it with a sleek, reflective, and glossy finish. While this finish looks elegant, it does require regular repolishing every few years.  

Polished finishes are best suited to wall cladding, fireplaces, and countertops.  

Another option is a flamed stone finish. Unlike a polished finish, this option requires no maintenance. It has a rustic, natural look from intensely heating the stone and then cooling it.  

Flamed stone finishes are best suited for flooring, especially areas of your home with high foot traffic.  

If you’re looking for a stone flooring finish, a honed finish is one of the most popular options. Its process includes removing all scratches and divots from the natural stone making it flat and smooth enough to walk on without completely eliminating the natural features of the stone. It does require resealing annually.  

Honed finishes are often used for flooring, countertops, and even outdoor walkways and tabletops.  

Split face stone finishes have an uneven front surface with a smooth rear surface for application. The front-facing surface looks rugged as if it was recently split from the stone. You will often see this finish used in wall cladding.  

Which Stone Finishes Stand the Test of Time?

With all the wear and tear our homes endure, one thing you don’t want to repair or replace is the stonework. That’s why choosing the right finish is so important.

Stone is incredibly durable in general, and most finishes require some maintenance. However, the finishes that are known to stand the test of time with ongoing maintenance are polished, honed, and leathered.  

Hot Trends We Love

It’s no surprise that natural texture is in. Interior designers are showing us in every magazine and HGTV series that texture adds dimension to your design, and natural textures make you feel closer to the great outdoors.  

In terms of stone finishes, we’re seeing lots of homes use finishes that allow the stone’s natural traits to shine. The most luxurious and stylistic homes feature matte, honed finishes everywhere because they honour the stone’s characteristics while making it smooth enough to use for countertops and flooring!

Ready to Find Your Dream Home?

If luxurious stone finishes are on your wish list for your dream home, you’re not alone! Our team can show you the most stunning properties that check all the boxes. Reach out to us today to learn more.

Suzy Goldstein

May 25, 2021

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