Stone Basics

Stone tile, a relatively affordable alternative to stone, is made from real stone aggregate suspended in a polymer binder. All flooring tile should have a nonskid, stain-proof surface (if it's only stain-resistant, it should be sealed and routinely resealed for protection). Because tile and stone floors are heavy and unforgiving of movement, they are applied over a strong, unyielding base; otherwise, they will crack. Wood subfloors are either reinforced with a secondary layer of plywood, cement backer board, or for amore durable application, a mortar bed.

Choosing the right stone tile is usually a combination of personal preference and budget considerations. Marble and granite are more formal stones. Marble is known especially as an elegant, ornamental stone that takes a high polish; it also costs a lot more than any other stone flooring material. Granite has a peppered, darker look than sandstone, which has more earth-tone colors. Both sandstone and limestone are more brittle but less costly options.

Inlays also depend on your budget and personal preferences. Wood and concrete are less expensive, but concrete is extremely durable and requires less care and maintenance than wood. Stone is also long-lasting, but more expensive.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com