In home decoration, stone has become a popular choice for interior design, used in areas such as bay window countertops, door stones, wave lines, floor tiles, decorative walls, steps, bathroom countertops, and cabinet tops. However, selecting the right type of stone for each area, understanding how to calculate the quantity needed, and knowing installation precautions can be confusing. Let’s explore what experts recommend.
**Understanding Stone Types and Safety**
In China, stone is categorized into three levels based on radioactivity: A, B, and C. Only Class A is suitable for indoor use, while B and C are intended for outdoor applications. Natural stone includes marble and granite. Marble typically has lower radioactivity and is more commonly used indoors, whereas granite should be avoided in bedrooms, children's rooms, or elderly spaces due to higher radiation levels. Artificial stone, on the other hand, varies depending on its composition during production.
Many people mistakenly believe that natural stone is always better than artificial. This isn’t necessarily true. High-grade C-class natural stone may not be safe for indoor use, while many artificial stones pass professional testing and are suitable for indoor environments. The quality of artificial stone also depends on the production process, with different grades available.
**Choosing the Right Stone for Different Areas**
Artificial stone is made using unsaturated polyester resin combined with inorganic materials like marble, calcite, silica sand, and glass powder. It offers improved resistance to moisture, acid, and heat compared to natural stone. However, it may lack the natural texture found in real stone, making it more suitable for practical areas like kitchens and bathrooms rather than decorative surfaces.
When choosing stone for your home, consider factors like hardness, color, and wear resistance. For high-traffic areas like countertops, cabinets, and steps, select stones with strong hardness and consistent color. Decorative walls and floors can benefit from more colorful and textured options. Light-colored flooring can create a warm and spacious feel, while dark stones should be used sparingly to avoid a gloomy atmosphere.
**Color Variation and Sample Selection**
Some stones from the same mine may have slight color differences, but these are considered stable materials. Stones from different mining areas may show more variation. To ensure consistency, choose carefully and confirm the source. When working with samples, check if they represent current stock or older inventory, and verify availability for your project.
It’s important to personally inspect the actual slabs before finalizing your selection. In large projects, sending consultants or geologists to the site helps identify color variations and ensures uniformity across the entire project.
**Testing Before Purchase**
Quality stone should have a smooth surface, even color, and clear texture. Avoid stones with visible defects like cracks, stains, or uneven edges. Imported artificial stone often performs better, allowing for easier maintenance, such as polishing minor scratches. When purchasing, test the stone by applying soy sauce or oil to check for durability.
**Calculating Quantity and Cost**
Stone prices vary widely, from tens to thousands of yuan per square meter. Most are sold by area, though some are priced per piece or meter. For regular shapes, calculate by multiplying length and width. Irregular shapes require estimating the largest dimensions. Always account for extra material to cover losses and edge adjustments.
If buying pre-cut stone, installation fees may apply. Custom-made pieces will incur additional costs for cutting, edging, and transportation. Be cautious of hidden charges, such as small cuts from large plates.
**Installation Tips**
After purchasing, stone is usually installed on-site. Before laying, arrange the pieces to achieve a uniform look, then number and label them. Avoid using liquid-based markers that might stain the stone.
During installation, apply a layer of cement slurry, followed by a mortar base. Ensure the mortar is at least 2 cm thick and avoid heavy objects for 8–12 hours. Some imported stones come with a plastic mesh on the back, which should be removed before installation.
**Avoiding a Dark Look**
To prevent a dark and cramped feeling, choose light-colored stones for flooring. They create a sense of space and warmth. Opt for wear-resistant, acid-resistant varieties like light-colored granite, which is cost-effective and easy to replace if damaged.
**Countertop Color Considerations**
For countertops, darker colors help hide stains and are more practical. Granite is ideal for kitchens due to its strength and resistance to acids and alkalis.
**Maintenance and Care**
Stone requires proper care. Avoid contact with acidic or alkaline substances, and protect against scratches. Do not wax the surface unless necessary, as wax can clog pores and lead to yellowing or dust buildup.
**Checking Inspection Reports**
Always request an inspection report when purchasing stone. Radioactivity levels can vary greatly depending on the source. For large projects, test multiple batches to ensure safety.
**Radioactivity Concerns**
While some stones have higher radioactivity, especially red and brown granites, not all are unsafe. Many natural and artificial stones are safe for indoor use. Don’t avoid all stone due to fear—choose wisely and prioritize quality and safety.
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