Understanding Natural Stone and Tile: A Guide to the SPUI Selection

Understanding Natural Stone and Tile: A Guide to the SPUI Selection

As architects and designers, selecting the right materials is crucial to the functionality and aesthetic appeal of a project. Tiles and natural stones define the overall look and feel of a space, whether it's for flooring, walls, backsplashes, or countertops. By understanding the properties and best uses of different materials, you ensure not only stunning designs but also durability and longevity.

At SPUI, we offer a selection of premium natural stones, ceramic, and porcelain tiles tailored to meet the needs of architects and designers. Below, we explore the key materials, collections, and best practices for their selection and installation.

Basalt  

Basalt is a dense, volcanic rock known for its durability and unique textures, making it a popular choice for both contemporary and industrial designs. Its fine-grained surface creates a sleek, modern aesthetic with high resistance to wear and weathering.  

Best Uses:

  • Ideal for flooring, exterior paving, and wall cladding.
  • Perfect for high-traffic areas due to its strength and durability.

Best Practices:

  • Surface Preparation: Basalt can be heavy, so ensure a strong, level substrate.
  • Sealing: Seal basalt to protect it from stains and moisture, especially in outdoor installations.
  • Slip Resistance: For wet areas, opt for flamed or textured finishes to ensure slip resistance.

SPUI Favorite: 

 

Limestone

Limestone offers a natural, understated elegance and is typically available in soft, neutral tones. While softer than marble and granite, it’s highly durable when sealed and maintained, making it an excellent option for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Best Uses:

  • Interior flooring, fireplaces, and wall cladding.
  • Suitable for outdoor applications such as patios.

Best Practices:

  • Sealing: Limestone is porous and requires regular sealing to prevent staining and moisture damage.
  • Cleaning: Use pH-neutral cleaners to avoid etching or damage.
  • Slip Resistance: Consider textured finishes for exterior or wet areas to avoid slipperiness.

SPUI Highlight:

 

Marble 

Marble has been a symbol of luxury for centuries due to its smooth finish and distinctive veining. While softer and more porous than granite, marble is still a durable and elegant choice for spaces where aesthetics are paramount.

Best Uses:

  • Perfect for bathrooms, kitchen countertops, and decorative wall applications.
  • Recommended for lower-traffic areas or accent features due to its susceptibility to etching and staining.

Best Practices:

  • Sealing: Marble should be sealed regularly to prevent staining and etching, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Avoid Acidic Cleaners: Acidic substances, such as vinegar or citrus-based cleaners, can damage marble surfaces.
  • Polishing: For high-traffic areas, opt for a honed finish to minimize the visibility of scratches.

SPUI Favorite:

  • 12x24 Thassos White Honed Rectangle Tile – A luxurious, bright white marble tile with a honed finish, suitable for walls and floors​.
  • Breccia Vino – This series features rich burgundy tones with high variation, ideal for creating bold statements in any room​
 

Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are a versatile and cost-effective option, popular for both residential and commercial spaces. They are created from natural clay, fired in a kiln, and often glazed to achieve a smooth and durable finish. Ceramic tiles come in a wide range of colors and styles, making them ideal for walls and low-traffic floors.

Best Uses:

  • Ideal for walls, backsplashes, and low-traffic flooring areas.
  • Suitable for indoor applications due to their limited durability under extreme weather conditions.

Best Practices:

  • Waterproofing: Ensure proper waterproofing when using ceramic tiles in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Grouting: Select non-staining grout to maintain the tile’s clean look.
  • Cleaning: Regular cleaning with non-abrasive products will preserve the glaze’s shine.

SPUI Favorite: 

  • Artisan Series – Featuring handcrafted tiles available in 2.5x8 and 5x5 sizes, the Artisan series brings a rustic, handmade charm to walls and backsplashes​.

Porcelain

Porcelain tiles are highly durable and denser than ceramic, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. Porcelain is resistant to moisture, stains, and scratches, offering long-lasting performance in high-traffic areas.

Best Uses:

  • Ideal for floors and walls in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces.
  • Suitable for outdoor installations due to its resistance to frost and weathering.

Best Practices:

  • Substrate Preparation: A strong, level substrate is necessary to prevent cracking or shifting.
  • Grout Selection: Non-staining grout is essential for maintaining the aesthetic and ensuring longevity.
  • Slip Resistance: Opt for textured or matte finishes in wet areas to reduce slipperiness.

SPUI Highlight:

  • Malaga Series – This versatile porcelain collection includes sizes 9x9 square, 14x14 square, and 11x13 hexagon, available in a range of finishes suitable for interior and exterior applications​
 

Tiles and natural stones offer a range of design possibilities and practical applications, from the understated elegance of limestone to the bold luxury of marble. By understanding the unique properties of each material, architects and designers can create spaces that are not only visually stunning but also built to last. At SPUI, our selection of Basalt, Limestone, Marble, Ceramic, and Porcelain tiles provides endless possibilities for your next project.

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