Whether you're looking for a beautiful and long-lasting flooring option or thinking about investing in granite countertops, natural stone has so much potential within the home. Stone can fit in with any aesthetic, and the materials available are low-maintenance and built to stand the test of time. If you're considering a stone addition for your home, here are a few factors to consider.

Which Material Factors Should You Keep in Mind?

Before you choose your material, decide which areas call for a natural stone upgrade. If you're upgrading the kitchen or bathroom, for instance, slate, marble, and granite countertops are among the most popular choices. Travertine and limestone, on the other hand, are ideal for both exteriors and interiors, with the latter seeing wide use as a building stone.

Finish is just as important as the material itself. Stones that traditionally have a high polish may be ideal for countertop installation, but they're not suitable for floor tiles. While much of your decision will come down to personal taste, stone installation is an investment, so it pays to be practical and mindful of how satisfied you'll be with your choice in the long term.

How Should You Balance Practical & Aesthetic Needs?

If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, granite countertops are a worthwhile investment with enhanced durability and convenience. Considering all the wear and tear your kitchen counters go through year after year, it's worth spending more upfront for a material that can handle it. Other practical factors include the thickness, hardness, and grade of the stone, which conveys how resistant it is to chipping and scratching.

Once you've landed on a practical choice, consider the way your new material fits into your aesthetic. Every piece has a unique character thanks to varying patterns, and you can add a personal touch by choosing its finish. Color options are vast as well. Just keep in mind how color impacts maintenance. Lighter tones tend to be more prone to discoloration, while darker options show fingerprints and other marks more clearly.

When you're ready to install your new flooring or granite countertop update, leave it to the skilled team at Ceramic Tile Plus and Exclusively Yours of Kahului, HI. With over 41 years in the business, this family-owned and -operated company is the area's go-to choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling jobs of all sizes. With their help, you'll end up with a finished product that's both attractive and affordable. To find out more about their natural stone options, head to their website or give them a call today at (808) 871-7595.