Artistic Tile And Stone

Material Selection Tips for Your Pool and Backyard Design

If you’re redoing your backyard area, there’s so much to consider when choosing material. Working with a professional will ensure you make smart choices that will be beautiful and last for years to come.

In this video, you get to see a full backyard transformation. The landscape designer explains all the choices that went into choosing the right tiles for each area and the results are truly stunning.

The experts at Artistic Stone and Tile are here to help you with your redecorating project. Visit our showroom and discuss your project with a staff member to get the best advice on which stone and tile options will work for your individual needs. Learn more by contacting us at (877) 217-7639.

Choosing the Perfect Tile for Your Kitchen Backsplash

The areas between your counters and your kitchen cabinets or surrounding your sink don’t have to be boring. Backsplashes are a great way to add subtle or bright artistic accents to your kitchen area. The many options in style, color, and material give you a great array of choices in choosing the right glass, ceramic, stone, or decorative handmade tile for your kitchen.

Backsplash Purpose

• Subtle Beauty: A backsplash can be a great way to add background color to your kitchen area without detracting from the central focal points. If you’ve chosen beautiful stone countertops or artistic cabinetry, a more natural, uniform backsplash can accentuate these stunning features in a way that doesn’t take away from them.

• Making a Statement: On the other hand, backsplashes offer homeowners a chance to make a bold, artistic statement in their kitchen area. They can express your bright personal style without being too bold. The choice you make in backsplash has to reflect your own decorating tastes and fit into your kitchen area.

Material Options

• Considering Color: Depending on your color choice, you have a wide variety of materials to pick form. Glass tile offers a brighter, shinier surface, while natural stone gives a subdued, earthy feel. Ceramic tiles offer decorators brighter colors that are still all natural, for a traditional yet fun feel. And for the bolder tastes, handmade decorative tile options are a fun way to express your personal taste.

• Keys to Durability: Talk with your local tile expert to learn more about the care different types of tiles require. Some are easier to clean, while others may require special treatment. Some may be virtually wear-proof, while others may crack easily when knocked with pots and pans. Choose a tile that works for your family’s lifestyle.

If you’re considering adding a backsplash to your kitchen, take time to choose the perfect tile for your personal decorating taste. At Artistic Stone and Tile, our decorative tile experts will guide you through your options and answer any questions you have. Call us today at (877) 217-7639 to learn more about our beautiful showroom today. 

More Ideas About Making Natural Stone A Part Of Your Home

Have you enjoyed reading our recent blog posts, which have discussed the primary differences between marble and granite and offered some inspirational design ideas for using travertine tiles in your backyard? Learn more about these topics by exploring the following resources. 

• Check out this Good Housekeeping article for advice on keeping your granite entryway looking brand new for years!

• Are you having trouble deciding what type of stone material to use for your bathroom countertop? This HGTV article might be able to help you make your decision.

• Find out more about why travertine tiles are such a great option for a variety of home remodeling projects at servicemagic.com.

• If you are considering using travertine tiles to build your garden path, this Everything Simple article might give you the push you need to actually do it.

• For some advice on using travertine tiles outdoors, a great option for Southern California patios and pool decks, visit BackyardsandGardens.com.

For more information, or to visit our San Carlos showroom, call Artistic Tile and Stone at (877) 217-7639!

What is the Difference Between Marble and Granite?

Marble and granite are both natural stone materials that can be transformed into beautiful countertops, decorative tiles, floor coverings, and a variety of other functional and decorative elements for use in your home. If you are curious about the differences between these two popular materials, this article should provide you with some helpful insight.

Geology
Marble is a metamorphic rock, and its occurrence can be attributed to the recrystallization of carbonate minerals. The metamorphism of different types of carbonate rocks are what account for the various colors and textures in which marble can be found. Granite, on the other hand, is an igneous rock, formed by the reaction of molten lava with other rocks and minerals.

Appearance and Properties
Granite and marble are both generally considered to be beautiful, high-quality stone materials. Each can be found in a variety of colors and textures, the latter of which is partially attributed to the way in which slabs of marble and granite are finished before they are cut into tiles.

Marble is softer and more porous than granite, which is why it has a reputation for being more susceptible to staining and abrasion. However, some homeowners prefer marble, and thus use it to adorn their fireplace walls and other decorative areas of their homes. Granite is denser than marble; making granite tiles a more practical option for high-traffic floor areas such as home entry halls.

Maintenance
Marble may be more susceptible to staining than granite is, but this does not mean that it cannot be used in the kitchen. Certain types of marble, particularly those of the serpentine class, require very little maintenance. If oily or other stain-causing liquids are spilled on marble, they should be cleaned up immediately to avoid permanent discoloration. Although granite is generally more stain-resistant than marble is, spills on granite should be attended to immediately as well.

Marble and granite are the two most highly coveted floor tiles and countertop options among homeowners today. Thus, it is natural to struggle when deciding which of the two to use for your construction or remodeling needs. Artistic Tile and Stone’s friendly golden doodle Dood, who is always present in our showroom, can undoubtedly alleviate some of the stress you experience when making your decision. Call us at (877) 217-7639 with any questions you may have!

Are Marble Countertops a Good Choice for Your Home?

Rumors abound that marble should not be used as a kitchen countertop material because it is highly susceptible to staining. To find out why these rumors are misguided, and how a few simple precautions and the right type of marble can provide you with an easy-to-maintain marble countertop, check out this informational video.

In it, you will learn about the various classes of marble, some of which are much harder and less porous than others. These are the type of marble that are best suited for an elegant home’s kitchen countertop.

If you are a San Carlos homeowner who is looking for the ideal marble tiles for your countertops or decorative needs, consider paying a visit to Artistic Tile and Stone. Call (877) 217-7639 to speak with a helpful member of our team today!