What is a honed finish
Honing is the process of smoothing the surface of the stone with abrasive discs and stopping before the polishing stage. The result is a smooth but matte surface. While on a polished surface light is reflected as in a mirror, on a honed surface it is diffused; that is why the color of the stone looks softer and the veining calmer.
Where it is preferred
- Floor: Because it does not reflect light, footprints and fine scratches are much less noticeable.
- Bathroom and shower: The matte texture provides grip when wet; it is safer than glossy surfaces.
- Hallway and entrance: Does not glare in areas that receive direct light and is easy on the eyes.
Difference in appearance
The honed and polished versions of the same stone often look like different products. Polishing deepens the color and vein contrast within the stone; on a honed surface the same stone looks a shade lighter and calmer. If you want a simple space, honed is the right choice; if you want to showcase the stone, polished is.
Care
Because the honed surface is matte, it hides scratches, but its porous structure remains. Sealing is a must for honed natural stone products; a water- and oil-repellent protection greatly reduces the risk of stains. Use a pH-neutral product for cleaning and avoid acidic cleaners.
Sales unit and calculation
Two versions of the same stone
If a series offers both honed and polished options, using the two together enriches the space: honed on the floor, polished on the wall or inside a niche. Because the stone is the same, the color matches, while the difference in surface creates depth with the light. By requesting a sample you can see the two surfaces side by side.
Tiles are priced per square meter and sold in boxes; mosaic sheets, borders and accessories are priced per piece. Enter the square meters you need in the calculator on the product page; it finds how many boxes you need and adds the waste allowance. The allowance we recommend is between 10 and 15 percent.
