What Is Polished Stone Tile?

Polishing Process

• Stone tile manufacturers use various sanding grits, amounts of pressure applied to the stone to produce different final finishes for tile. The more a stone is sanded, the more intense its shine and patina. Highly polished tiles give a room a modern and sophisticated look, while a light or medium polish will reflect a more natural or antique look.

Stone Types

• It is important to distinguish polished stone tiles from ceramic and porcelain tiles. The latter are man-made from clay and get their polished look from sealants. Polished stone tiles, on the other hand, are made from natural stones, including marble, travertine, granite, limestone, slate and onyx. Granite is given a smooth polish and finish and is popular for its durability. Marble and onyx are classic favorites for polished tiles when a refined and cultured look is desired. Travertine gives a European flair to decor, while polished limestone tiles convey more of a soft quality, reminiscent of old-world charm, and slate tiles give rooms a natural, rustic look.

Applications

• Countertops and floors are commonly covered with polished natural stone tiles. For example, polished granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, and marble, slate and travertine polished tiles are popular for flooring. Polished tiles are also fine materials to use for walls. Some homeowners use polished tiles for kitchen backsplashes, shower stalls and bathtub surrounds. Polished tile is a classic flooring choice for a small area such as a foyer, as well as for larger rooms, including living rooms, dining rooms and bathrooms.

Design Options

• Use polished stone tiles alone or in combination with other types of tiles and materials. For example, a foyer that flows from a home’s entryway into a living room might have marble polished tiles in the foyer area and carpeting in the living room. You could also use highly polished onyx tiles as a border treatment surrounding lightly polished marble. A polished granite kitchen countertop might have a backsplash designed with glazed or unglazed ceramic or porcelain tiles. A bathroom might have unpolished travertine tile floors and polished travertine or slate shower stall walls. Mixing and matching polish intensities, from high to medium and unpolished is a good way to add interest and a variety of textures and finishes to your decor.