DEBUNKING FIVE COMMON MYTHS ABOUT NATURAL STONE

Natural stone has been in use in construction for centuries and has been admired for its beauty and durability.  However, several myths about natural stone persist, causing misunderstanding and confusion among builders, architects, and homeowners.   In this article, we dispel the myths surrounding the use of natural stones to help you appreciate the advantages of these wonderful and versatile material.



Myth 1:  Natural Stone is Expensive 

The most significant barrier to the use of natural stone is its high cost and the perception that natural stone is only for the wealthy.  This may have been true in the years gone by, but with improved mining processes and easy transportation, natural stone costs have considerably decreased. No doubt, certain varieties of marble, such as Statuario and Carrara  or even Van Gogh Granite, continue to attract a high price, but cheaper varieties of both marble and granite are available. Other natural stones, like sandstone, limestone and slate also provide excellent durability and aesthetic appeal at a reasonable cost.  However, the high cost of natural stones should be considered along with their resilience and longevity.

Myth 2:  Natural Stone is High Maintenance  

The prevalent consensus is that natural stone necessitates substantial upkeep to retain its appearance and function. This fallacy frequently discourages homeowners from using natural stone for their homes because of concerns about the effort and cost of maintaining them. Natural stones are very easy to maintain and preserve, especially if properly sealed. Most stones merely require periodic cleaning with light soap and water. Sealing the stone protects it from stains and damage.  Though re-sealing is necessary every few years, it largely depends on the kind of stone and its use. Natural stone has relatively low maintenance requirements when compared to other materials that may require periodic painting, refinishing, or replacement.

Myth 3:  Natural Stone is Prone to Damage 

A widespread myth is that natural stone deteriorates over time and gets damaged easily, rendering it unsuitable for high-traffic areas or outdoor use. While some stones, such as marble, are more easily scratched or etched, many varieties of natural stone are extremely robust and resistant to wear and damage. Granite, for example, is one of the toughest materials available, with excellent resistance to abrasion and heat. Stones like slate and quartzite are also noted for their toughness, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and outdoor applications. Proper sealing and maintenance can increase the durability and lifetime of natural stone surfaces.

Myth 4:   Natural stone is bulky

There is a perception that natural stone is too heavy and unwieldy for modern construction, resulting in higher structural costs and design constraints. Natural stone can be easily accommodated using modern engineering and building techniques. Natural stone can also be combined with other materials to balance weight and structural integrity, providing design versatility without sacrificing flair.

Myth 5: Natural Stone is Not Environmentally Friendly

Some believe that natural stone is not eco-friendly due to the energy required for quarrying and transportation. They argue that using natural stone depletes natural resources and contributes significantly to carbon emissions.  Natural stone can actually be one of the most sustainable building materials. It doesn't require harmful chemicals or significant processing, like synthetic materials do. Many quarries use sustainable practices such as land reclamation and reduced water usage. Additionally, the long lifecycle of natural stone reduces the need for frequent replacements, lowering its overall environmental impact.

Conclusion

Natural stone remains one of the most enduring and versatile materials in construction, offering a unique blend of beauty, durability, and sustainability. By debunking these common myths, we can fully appreciate the true value of natural stone and make informed choices that leverage its many benefits. Whether for flooring, countertops, facades, or landscaping, natural stone continues to be Natural stone has been a staple in construction for centuries, admired for its durability, beauty, and timeless appeal.  

For more information, visit us at  https://www.aplustouchstoneservices.com or write to us with all your concerns at info@aplustouchstoneservices.com   


Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

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