Marble Tiles V Pavers

[edit] Introduction

Marble is a natural stone that has been used as a building and finishing material for centuries. It is valued for its range of colours, crystalline texture and natural veining, which can give floors and other surfaces a distinctive appearance. Marble can be used in both internal and external applications, but the appropriate product depends on the intended use, the supporting construction and the conditions to which it will be exposed.

The distinction between marble tiles and marble pavers is therefore important. Although both are made from marble, they may differ in dimensions, thickness, finish and intended application.

[edit] Difference between marble tiles and pavers

The principal difference between marble tiles and pavers is generally their dimensions and intended application rather than the material itself. Marble tiles are commonly used for internal flooring and other applications where the substrate and installation system provide suitable support. Marble pavers are generally thicker and are intended for external paving applications.

There is no universal thickness that distinguishes a tile from a paver. The appropriate thickness depends on the particular stone, dimensions, installation system, expected loading and site conditions. Product specifications should therefore be checked before selection.

Marble tiles may be suitable for:

• Living rooms.
• Hallways and entrance areas.
• Bathrooms.
• Kitchens.
• Bedrooms.
• Other internal areas where the stone is appropriate.

Marble pavers may be suitable for:

• Patios.
• Courtyards.
• Terraces.
• Paths.
• Pool surrounds.
• Other external areas designed for pedestrian use.

[edit] Marble tiles for internal applications

Marble tiles are commonly selected for internal flooring because of their appearance and the range of colours and patterns available. Natural variation means that individual tiles can differ in colour, veining and crystalline texture, so samples should be representative of the expected range of the finished material.

Marble can be used in living areas, hallways, entrance areas, bathrooms and kitchens where its physical properties and the proposed installation system are appropriate. It can also be combined with materials such as timber, glass and other natural stones.

Marble is generally softer than granite and can therefore be more susceptible to scratching, abrasion and surface wear. Calcite-rich marble is also sensitive to acids, which can cause etching and loss of surface polish. This should be considered when selecting marble for areas where acidic substances may be encountered.

[edit] Marble pavers for external applications

Marble pavers can provide a natural stone finish to patios, courtyards, terraces, paths and pool surrounds. However, not all marble is suitable for external paving. The particular stone should be assessed for its resistance to weathering, water absorption, abrasion and other conditions relevant to the proposed application.

The thickness, dimensions, surface finish and installation system should be selected according to the expected loading and site conditions. The supporting construction, including the sub-base, bedding, joints and drainage, is also important to the performance of external paving.

Pool surrounds and other areas that may become wet require particular consideration of surface finish and slip resistance. A highly polished marble surface may not be appropriate where a greater degree of slip resistance is required.

[edit] Climate and external exposure

The suitability of marble for external use depends on the local climate and exposure conditions. Factors such as rainfall, frost, temperature changes, sunlight, pollution and the presence of salts or chemicals can affect the long-term performance of natural stone.

External paving should therefore be selected according to the specific environmental conditions rather than appearance alone. Appropriate falls and drainage should be provided to minimise prolonged standing water, and the installation system should be suitable for the ground and expected loading.

Internal marble is less directly affected by weather, although its thermal characteristics can influence comfort. Stone flooring can feel cool underfoot and may be appropriate where this is desirable, while underfloor heating can also be used where the flooring and installation system are compatible.

[edit] Marble maintenance

Marble requires appropriate routine maintenance. Internal floors should be swept or vacuumed regularly to remove dirt and abrasive particles that could contribute to surface wear. Cleaning products should be suitable for the particular stone and finish.

Acidic cleaning products, including vinegar and lemon-based products, should generally be avoided on calcite-rich marble because they can react with the calcium carbonate in the stone and cause etching. Spills should be cleaned promptly, particularly where staining substances are involved.

External marble should also be kept free from dirt, leaves and other materials that may retain moisture or contribute to staining and surface deterioration.

The need for sealing depends on the characteristics of the particular marble and its intended application. More absorbent stone may benefit from an appropriate sealer to reduce staining and moisture penetration. Sealing does not make marble completely stain-proof and does not eliminate the need for routine maintenance.

[edit] Choosing the right finish

The finish of marble affects its appearance, maintenance requirements and surface characteristics. A polished finish has a smooth, reflective surface and is commonly used where a formal appearance is required. A honed finish has a less reflective, matte appearance.

Textured or otherwise less polished finishes may be appropriate for some external applications where greater surface grip is required. The appropriate finish depends on the particular product and application.

In areas around swimming pools and other wet locations, the slip characteristics of the selected stone and finish should be established from appropriate technical information. A finish should not be assumed to have a particular level of slip resistance simply because it is described as a marble paver.

[edit] Selecting marble tiles or pavers

The choice between marble tiles and pavers should be based primarily on the intended application and the technical characteristics of the particular product.

Marble tiles may be appropriate where:

• The material is intended for an internal application.
• The substrate and installation system provide suitable support.
• The appearance and natural variation of the marble are appropriate.
• The expected traffic is compatible with the stone's resistance to wear.
• The selected finish is suitable for the location.

Marble pavers may be appropriate where:

• The material is specifically suitable for external use.
• The dimensions and thickness are appropriate for the proposed application.
• The stone has suitable resistance to weathering and moisture.
• The surface finish provides appropriate performance for the location.
• The supporting construction is designed for the expected loading.

The same or complementary varieties of marble can sometimes be used for internal and external applications, but suitability should be established separately for each use.

[edit] Things to check before buying marble

Before specifying or purchasing marble, the following should be considered:

Application: Check that the particular product is suitable for internal or external use and for the expected level of traffic.

Dimensions and thickness: Ensure that the dimensions and thickness are appropriate for the proposed installation system and loading.

Finish: Select a finish appropriate to the intended location and required appearance.

Slip resistance: Give particular consideration to areas that may become wet, including pool surrounds and other external or wet-area applications.

Colour and variation: Natural marble varies in colour, veining and texture. Representative samples or control samples should be examined where appearance is important.

Maintenance: Establish the appropriate cleaning and maintenance requirements and whether sealing is recommended.

Installation: Ensure that the substrate, bedding, joints, drainage and other aspects of the installation system are appropriate for the stone and application.

Environmental exposure: For external applications, consider weathering, moisture, frost where applicable, sunlight, pollution and other site-specific conditions.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Natural stone flooring
• Granite v marble flooring
• Natural Stone Tiles
• Choosing stone
• Natural stone paving
• Natural stone
• Natural Stone for Interiors
• Floor tiles
• Types of tile
• Types of flooring