Natural material.
Stone is a natural product of the Earth, the original green building material. It does not require other materials or resources to create it. There is an abundant supply with different veining, textures, colors, shapes, and technical characteristics that make it possible for stone to be used in a wide range of applications. Stone’s varying appearance is the result of millions of years of geologic change and mineral composition. Natural stone contains no harmful chemicals or toxins, so you can be rest assured that your interior environment will be healthy, an important component of sustainable design
Very durable.
Stone stands the test of time, which means the choice to use natural stone will only enhance the value of your home while reducing the need to replace materials over a longer period of time. Stones such as slate, limestone, travertine, and granite will all age beautifully and gracefully, providing years of use and enjoyment. Stone can easily stand up to high traffic and use in areas such as courtyards, foyers, kitchens, and baths and may be designed to last for 50 or even 100 years. Durability is especially important when choosing sustainable materials so that resources aren’t used to create new materials as often.
Ease of care and maintenance.
If maintained properly, stone will last for years and reward you with its beauty. There are a wide range of fabrication options and finishes that can be applied to natural stone that will also enhance its performance, including extending its life, resisting weather and wear and tear, or making the stone more slip resistant.
Recyclable.
Stone is completely recyclable and has the potential to serve many different uses and purposes over its lifetime. Salvaging and recycling stone is a very viable option and a sustainable way to ensure that the useful life of the material will be lived out to its fullest. Environmentally, utilising recycled stone can eliminate the energy, water, and other resources needed to generate new products from virgin or raw material sources, ultimately reducing or avoiding impacts to ecosystems and resource supplies.
Sustainable Manufacturing
Advancements in technology, including improved methods of quarrying, extraction, and fabrication have led to increased options and reduced costs of stone products, making natural stone easier to use and more desirable than ever before. Conserving resources, preventing pollution, and minimizing waste are some ways the stone industry is working to be eco-friendly through practices that support sustainable design requirements. Through your selection of natural stone, you can be a part of using a material that is natural and is handled in a sustainable manner from the quarrying stage through to its installation and useful long life