Stone Home Improvement
by Candice Mancini
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
My parents just bought a little place in the woods, a fully remodeled 1930s stone cabin. Stones are everywhere, from the outside wall, fireplace, and floors. This quaint look gave me an idea: why not add stone to my home? For my own little version of the cabin, I'll look into stone flooring options. My renovation center will be the kitchen.
Stone Renovation Idea #1: Real Stone
The most obvious choice, right? It's beautiful, authentic, and unique. It will remind me of old castles I once visited in Wales... But it's no home improvement bargain. Not including installation or shipping/delivery, natural stone can run between $10 to over $100 a square-foot while stone tiles range $5 to $20 per square-foot. Other disadvantages: it's difficult to clean; hard to stand on for long periods, because it's hard and cold; and when you drop a plate on it, it shatters.
But then again, what remodel could be more beautiful?
Stone Renovation Idea #2: Stone-Look Tile
Stone also comes in portraits, placed onto ceramic or porcelain, which can be laid on your floor. Like artwork for the feet. Of course the look won't be exactly like real stone, and it too is hard and cold, but there are benefits:
- Tiles are strong, but thin and light, making installation easier and remodeling costs lower
- They are most often cheaper than real stone
- Tiles are easier to clean than real stone
And with a huge selection, many are truly beautiful.
Stone Renovation Idea #3: "Stone" Vinyl or Linoleum
If cost is the number-one priority for your home improvement project, this is a good option. But there are benefits other than cost:
- Surfaces are softer and warmer
- Patterns, colors, and textures are abundant, including a wide range that resembles stone.
- Cleaning and maintenance is a breeze
Can't decide? Measure your space and shop around for different styles. Once you have a sense of what you like, talk to a contractor or two about the logistics of the remodel.
Source
About the Author
Candice Mancini is a writer, a teacher, and a homeowner always on the lookout for a good contractor. She has an M.A. in Education and B.A. in English and history.
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