The character of marble: vein, tone and finish
Marble is a stone formed in nature; vein direction, tone intensity and spot distribution vary from slab to slab. Two boxes from the same series will not be identical, nor are they expected to be. Before installation, opening the boxes and laying the slabs out mixed on the floor to plan the layout ensures that tone transitions look natural.
Honed or polished?
- The honed surface is matte and smooth. Because it does not reflect light, the veining looks calm and it feels safer underfoot. It is a common choice for floors, bathrooms and hallways.
- A polished surface is glossy; the depth of veins and color shows most on this surface. It brightens the space by reflecting light, but it is slippery when wet. It is suitable for walls and floors that get little water.
- On a tumbled surface the edges are softened and the texture is slightly wavy. It looks good in classic and rustic spaces with narrow grout lines.
Sealing and stains
Marble is a porous stone; acidic liquids (lemon, vinegar, wine, limescale remover) can leave dull marks on the surface. After installation, apply a water- and oil-repellent sealer, and repeat this every few years in wet areas and the kitchen. Use a pH-neutral product for daily cleaning; stay away from abrasive powders and cleaners containing acid.
Grout and layout
Grout color directly changes the tone in which the marble appears. A grout close to the light tone of the stone makes the surface look unified; dark grout emphasizes the border of each slab and calls for a patterned look. 2 mm grout is generally sufficient for rectified edges and 3 mm for straight-cut edges.
Box calculation and waste allowance
Tiles are priced per square meter and sold in boxes. Enter the square meters you need in the calculator on the product page; it finds how many boxes you need and adds an allowance for cuts and breakage. The waste allowance we recommend is between 10 and 15 percent; keep it close to the upper limit for patterned and diagonal layouts.
