Different Natural Stone Flooring Types: Best Stone Floors, Prices, Pros, and Cons

Natural stone flooring types include everything from the premium marble and quartzite, soft limestone and Mediterranean travertine to sturdy granite and slate, each with their varying colours, textures, and finishes. Not only are they aesthetically appealing, but according to the Natural Stone Institute, these are single-ingredient natural materials that emit no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), making them environmentally sustainable.

However, each stone has varying durability, maintenance requirements, water resistance, and ideal applications. Understanding what aligns with your budget and goals is crucial. Hence, this article covers natural stone flooring types, their prices, pros, cons, ideal usage, styling tips, and more. 

An Overview of Natural Stone Flooring Types

Here are the natural stone flooring types at a glance: 

Stone Type	Best For	Hardness	Longevity	Price Range	Tile Size
Marble	Luxury Interior Living Rooms Foyers	3 to 5	50 -100 years	$10 to $45 per square foot	12*12, 12*24, 24*24, and custom sizes
Limestone	Kitchen Dining Room Bedroom Low-Traffic Spaces	3 to 4	50-80 years	$6 to $20 per square foot	12*12, 16*16, 18*18, 24*24
Granite	Kitchens Hallways Commercial Spaces	6-7	75-100+ years	$10 to $40 per square foot	12*12, 12*24, 18*18, 24*24
Slate	Bathroom Patios Pool Decks Entryways and Mudrooms	2.5-4	75 to 100 years	$8 to $30 per square foot	12*12, 12*24, 18*18
Travertine	Patios Pool Surrounds Living Rooms Bathroom	3-4	50 to 100 years	$5 to $47 per square foot	12*12, 16*16, 18*18
Quartzite	Luxury Interior Hallways Living Rooms Kitchens	7-8	20 to 50+ years	$45 to $75 per square foot	12*12, 12*24, 16*16, 24*48

What is Natural Stone Flooring? Why Is It Popular?

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), natural stone is a type of dimension stone or natural rock material quarried for the purpose of obtaining blocks or slabs for architectural uses, selected for their finish, durability, strength, and appearance. 

In simple words, natural stone flooring refers to the types of flooring made from naturally occurring stones, such as granite, marble, limestone, travertine, and more. These are then cut into the shapes of slabs or tiles and are used to create durable floors. 

Why Is Stone Flooring Popular?

Stone flooring types are popular for their durability and strength, low maintenance, wide variety of textures and colours, and natural cool surface.  

• Eco-Friendly Material: Natural stones are eco-friendly and emit no volatile organic compounds. These are verified to have low environmental impacts. 
• Exceptional Durability: Most natural stone flooring lasts 50 to 100 years when maintained properly. Hence, the upfront cost may be higher, but its longevity makes it a significant long-term investment. 
• Cool Underfoot: Most of the natural stones offer perfect cool underfoot, and hence, are ideal for warm climates. 
• Aesthetically Appealing: Natural stone flooring has different textures, finishes, and colours, and these unique naturally occurring patterns complement both modern and traditional interiors. 
• Enhance Resale Value: Natural stone flooring significantly increases property value as they need low maintenance and its aesthetic appeal attracts potential buyers. 

Natural Stone Flooring Types: Marble, Granite, Limestone, Travertine, and More 

Quartzite, marble, granite, slate, limestone, and travertine are some of the best natural stone flooring types, available in multiple finishes, colours, and textures. 

Here’s everything you need to know about their pros and cons, ideal application, cost, durability, and more: 

1. Marble Flooring

Marble is a high-end natural stone, known for its elegant veining and shiny appearance. Commonly used to elevate the look of the space, marble is available in multiple colours and designs, offering a polished and premium look that suits both classic and modern interiors. It is generally used in premium residential and commercial interiors. 

Pros: 

• Contains Anti-Bacterial Properties
• Ideal For Warm Climates 
• Offers Unique Patterns 
• Great Resale Value 

Cons: 

• High-Maintenance and Cost 
• Easily Stained From Acidic Spills
• Can be Slippery When Polished 

Ideal For:

• Master Bedrooms
• Living Rooms
• Entryways
• Dining Room 
• Foyer 

Durability	Moderate
Maintenance	High
Price Range	$10 to $45 per square foot

Did You Know?

Marble has been commonly used in various historical monuments and palaces due to its luxurious appeal and classic beauty. 

For residential use, marble is best complemented with brass finishes, neutral tones, and light woods for modern appeal. 

2. Limestone Flooring 

Known for its distinct fossilized pattern, Limestone is one of the most well-rounded and affordable flooring options. Available in subtle colours, such as tanned or neutral brown, it offers an earthy, rugged sophistication to the space and adds a smooth texture and elegance. 

Pros: 

• Affordable Upfront Cost
• Highly Versatile 
• Stays Cool in Warm Climates
• Resists Mold and Bacteria Naturally 

Cons: 

• Softer than other flooring options, hence less suitable for traffic areas. 
• Prone to scratches 
• High maintenance; requires sealing every 1-3 years. 

Ideal For: 

• Low-Traffic Spaces 
• Kitchen
• Dining Areas
• Bedrooms 

Durability	Less Durable
Maintenance	High
Pricing	$6 to $20 per square foot
Longevity	50-80 years  Needs re-sealing every 1-3 years.

Style Recommendation: 

Limestone is best paired with contrasting tones; for example, light beige limestone can be paired with dark wood tones, soft fabrics, neutral colours, and natural wood furniture.

3. Granite Flooring 

Granite is one of the hardest and best natural stone flooring types, known for its durability. This is a well-rounded stone, resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. Available in multiple colours, such as tan, blue, green, red, grey, brown, and white, granite offers a range of finishes from muted to glossy and brushed textures. 

Pros: 

• Resistant to stains, scratches, and heat
• Low-Maintenance
• High Durability 
• Enhanced Resale Value of the Property 

Cons:  

• Require Professional Installation
• Expensive Upfront Cost 
• Heavy Material 

Ideal For: 

• Spaces with Heavy Foot Traffic 
• Kitchens
• Hallways
• Commercial Spaces

Durability	High
Maintenance	Low
Pricing	$10 to $40 per square foot
Longevity	50 to 100 years, when maintained properly

Why is Granite the Best Option? 

Granite is one of the best flooring solutions if your primary concern is durability. It lasts a lifetime and needs lower maintenance. This is ideal for households and high-traffic spaces.

4. Slate Flooring 

Known for its earthy textures and colours, Slate is yet another high-end stone flooring option, available in shades such as grey, black, and rust, with a slip-resistant surface. This type of natural stone flooring adds character and elegance to the space and works well with a wide range of colour schemes and furniture. 

Pros: 

• Ideal for both Indoor and Outdoor Uses
• Slip-Resistant
• Excellent Water Resistance
• High Durability 

Cons:

• Heavy Material
• Requires Professional Installation
• Polished Finish Options are Limited 

Ideal For: 

• Kitchen
• Bathroom
• Patios 
• Pool Decks 
• Entryways and Mudrooms 

Durability	High
Maintenance	Moderate
Pricing	$8 to $30 per square foot
Longevity	75 to 100 years  Occasional sealing is required.

5. Travertine Flooring 

Travertine is a type of limestone valued for its textured surface and earthy appearance, with a wide range of natural colours, from ivory to beige, brown, and even silver grey. It is a popular choice if you’re looking for a Mediterranean, farmhouse, or contemporary vibe in your space. 

Pros: 

• Available in Various Finishes, such as Brushed, Polished, Honed, and Tumbled
• Stays Cool in Warm Climates
• Cold Underfoot
• Ideal for Both Indoor and Outdoor Spaces 

Cons: 

• Prone to Scratches
• Requires Regular Maintenance
• Naturally Porous 

Ideal For: 

• Patios
• Pool Surrounds
• Kitchen
• Living Rooms
• Bathroom 

Durability	Moderate
Maintenance	High
Pricing	$5 to $47 per square foot
Longevity	50 to 100 years Re-sealing is required every 1-2 years.

Style Recommendation: 

Travertine is highly versatile and can create endless looks, including Mediterranean, countryside, coastal, asian, and more. 

It is best paired with contrasting colours, like dark wood or neutral and pastel house paints, such as white, rustic, or pastel floral patterns.

6. Quartzite Flooring 

Quartzite, often mistaken for marble, is one of the best stone flooring types that combines the sophistication of marble and the strength of granite. Its naturally occurring patterns are unique and offer a shimmering and veining appearance. Known for its decade-long performance, quartzite is an ideal choice for both modern and traditional interiors. 

Pros: 

• Solid and Dense Material
• Low Maintenance
• Marble-like Appearance 
• Scratch and Heat Resistant 

Cons: 

• High Upfront Cost
• Professional Installation Required 
• Needs Re-Sealing 

Ideal For:

• Luxury Interior
• Hallways
• Living Rooms
• Kitchens 

Durability	High
Maintenance	Low
Pricing	$45 to $75 per square foot
Longevity	20 to 50+ years

Expert Recommendation: 

If you’re looking for luxurious interiors but with lasting durability, quartzite is the best option as it combines the beauty of marble and granite’s strength.

7. Sandstone 

Sandstone flooring, like limestone, is known for its earthy and rugged appearance with natural texture and finish. For rustic looks and interiors, sandstone is a perfect choice that complements both indoor and outdoor, creating an inviting atmosphere. 

Pros: 

• Slip-Resistance 
• Ideal for Outdoor 
• Available in Earthy Tones
• Natural Rustic Appearance 

Cons: 

• Softer and Lower Hardness
• Quickly absorbs moisture if unsealed
• High Maintenance 

Ideal For: 

• Patios
• Gardens
• Walkways 
• Heavy-Foot Traffic Areas 

Durability	High
Maintenance	High
Pricing	$7 to $12 per square foot
Longevity	30-60 years

Sandstone Vs Limestone: Which is Better?

Although the right choice depends on the factors you’re looking for, learn the side-by-side comparison of features, durability, and maintenance of Limestone vs. Sandstone.

Best Natural Stone Flooring For Every Room 

Natural stone flooring is a perfect choice for any room, including the master bedroom, bathroom, patio, hallways, and living room. Here’s what you should choose for each room: 

Room Category	Natural Stone Flooring Type	Why It’s Recommended
Master Bedroom	Limestone	Soft texture and earthy tones Creates a calm and inviting atmosphere
Kitchen	Granite	Sturdy and durable Resistant to spills, stains, and scratches
Living Room	Marble or Limestone	Gives a luxurious appeal Creates a warm and inviting appeal.
Dining Room	Limestone, Travertine, or Slate	Adds Soft Elegance Stain Resistant Durable and prevents racking due to heavy chair movements.
Bathroom	Granite or Slate	Slip-Resistance Durable and textured surface improves grip on wet surfaces.
Patio	Travertine	Cool Underfoot in Warm Climates Mediterranean Appearance and Textured Surface
Foyer/Entryways	Granite or Slate	Slip and Scratch Resistance Durable and stands up to mud, water, and snow.
Pool Deck	Travertine or Slate	Slip Resistance Cool in Warm Climates
Commercial Spaces	Granite	Low Maintenance Handles Heavy Foot Traffic

Complete Cost Breakdown of Installing Natural Stone Flooring 

According to Angi, the average cost of installing natural stone flooring is $915 to $3090; however, it depends on various factors, including the room size, location, material, labour cost, and more. 

Here’s a complete cost breakdown: 

Category	Price
Natural Stone Material	$3 to $18+ per square foot
Labour	$5 to $14
Sealant	$1 to $3 per square foot
Removing Old Flooring	$2 per square foot
Finishing	$0.50 to $2 per square foot
Maintenance and Upkeep	$400 to $1200

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Natural Stone Flooring 

Here are some tips you must follow to support the longevity and durability of natural stone flooring: 

1. Sweep or vacuum the surface regularly to remove dust and grit, and wipe spills immediately to prevent stains. 

2. Avoid using harsh tools for cleaning. Instead, use microfiber towels for cleaning vanity, cabinets, and slabs, or a damp microfiber mop for the floor. 

3. Porous stones like travertine must be re-sealed every 1 to 2 years to enhance their durability. 

4. Consider keeping doormats at the entrance or near the heavy foot area to prevent dirt and grit accumulation. 

5. Strictly avoid using acidic cleaners, such as bleach, lemon juice, or vinegar, as they damage the stone’s surface. Get it professionally polished to maintain its shine and veining appearance.  

Suggested Reading: How to Paint a Room: 8 Simple Steps, Costs, Tools & Tips

Wrapping Up! 

To sum up, natural stone flooring types include everything from premium marble and granite to earthy limestones, slate, and more, each natural stone offering a combination of factors. However, the right choice depends on the factor you’re looking for, such as durability, price, low maintenance, premium finish, etc. Not only is it a worthwhile investment for any home, but it also enhances the overall appeal of the space, further increasing its resale value. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)