What is natural stone?

Natural stone is formed over millions of years through geological processes beneath the earth's surface. Unlike manufactured materials, every piece of natural stone is unique, with its own colour, texture, veining and character. These natural variations are part of what makes stone such a timeless architectural material for both interiors and exteriors.

Is every tile identical?

No.

No two pieces of natural stone are ever identical. Differences in colour, shade, fossils, veining and mineral deposits are all natural characteristics rather than defects. These variations create the individuality that makes natural stone unique.

Why does my order look different from the sample?

Samples are intended to demonstrate the general colour, finish and texture of a product but cannot represent the full range of variation found within a quarry.

Natural stone is produced by nature rather than a factory. Larger orders will naturally display greater variation than a small sample.

Why does stone vary in colour?

Natural stone contains different minerals that formed over millions of years.

Changes in mineral content, pressure and geological conditions create subtle differences in colour, veining and texture throughout the quarry.

These variations are evidence of genuine natural stone.

What are fossils and mineral markings?

Many limestones and some sandstones contain fossilised shells, corals and other natural formations.

These are naturally occurring features and are often considered one of the most attractive characteristics of genuine stone

Which stone is best for flooring?

The ideal choice depends on the style of your home and the intended use.

Limestone provides a timeless, understated appearance that suits both traditional and contemporary interiors.

Travertine offers warmth and character.

Granite provides exceptional durability.

Marble creates a luxurious statement where dramatic movement and veining are desired.

Which stone is best for gardens?

There is no single "best" material.

Limestone offers refined elegance.

Sandstone provides natural variation and warmth.

Granite offers exceptional durability.

The right choice depends on the style of your property, desired appearance and maintenance expectations.

Can I use the same stone inside and outside?

Often, yes.

Many natural stones are suitable for creating a seamless transition between interior living spaces and external terraces.

Our team can advise which materials are appropriate for both applications.

Is natural stone suitable for underfloor heating?

Yes.

Natural stone is an excellent conductor of heat and performs extremely well with water-based underfloor heating systems when installed correctly.

How much stone should I order?

We recommend allowing for cutting and wastage.

As a general guide:

• Simple layouts: allow approximately 5%

• Standard installations: allow approximately 10%

• Complex patterns or diagonal layouts: allow up to 15%

Ordering sufficient material at the outset also helps ensure colour consistency throughout the project.

Can I order additional material later?

You can, subject to availability.

However, because natural stone is quarried in batches, we cannot guarantee that future orders will exactly match previous deliveries.

For this reason, we recommend ordering enough material to complete the project, including a reasonable allowance for wastage.

Can I order samples?

Yes.

Samples are available for most products.

Please note that samples illustrate the general appearance of the stone but cannot represent every natural variation that may occur within a full order.

Should I inspect the stone before installation?

Absolutely.

All stone should be unpacked and inspected before installation begins.

If there are any concerns regarding the supplied material, installation should not proceed until those concerns have been discussed with us.

Once installed, the material is considered accepted.

Can stone be mixed during installation?

Yes—and it should be.

Experienced installers work from multiple crates simultaneously.

Mixing material during installation distributes natural colour variation evenly and produces the most attractive finished appearance.

Installing one crate at a time may result in visible areas of concentrated colour or tone.

Why do my tiles vary slightly in thickness?

Natural stone is manufactured within accepted dimensional tolerances.

Minor variations are normal and are accommodated by professional installers during fixing.

Can stone be cut on site?

Yes.

Natural stone can be cut using appropriate professional equipment.

We always recommend installation by experienced stone installers.

Does natural stone require sealing?

Some stones benefit from sealing, while others may not require it.

The appropriate treatment depends upon the material, finish and intended application.

We can recommend suitable sealers for each product.

How do I clean natural stone?

Routine cleaning should be carried out using products specifically designed for natural stone.

Acidic household cleaners should generally be avoided as they may damage certain stones, particularly limestone, marble and travertine.

Will natural stone stain?

Like any natural material, some stones are more porous than others.

Correct sealing, appropriate maintenance and prompt cleaning of spills will significantly reduce the risk of staining.

Will natural stone weather?

Yes.

Natural stone will gradually develop character through exposure to sunlight, rain and seasonal weather.

Many customers consider this gentle weathering part of its appeal.

Will algae or moss grow?

Any external surface may develop algae or moss in damp, shaded conditions.

Routine maintenance and occasional cleaning will help minimise build-up.

Is natural stone frost resistant?

Many natural stones supplied for external use are suitable for the UK climate.

The suitability of any particular stone depends on its geological characteristics and intended application.

How will my order be delivered?

Most orders are delivered on pallets using specialist pallet carriers.

It is the customer's responsibility to ensure suitable access for delivery vehicles.

Can pallets be placed exactly where I want them?

Unfortunately not.

Pallet deliveries are generally made to the nearest safe and accessible location.

Drivers cannot normally move pallets across gravel, grass, steep slopes or steps.

What should I do when my delivery arrives?

Please inspect your delivery as soon as possible.

If you believe there is any damage or shortage, notify us promptly and retain all packaging where possible.

Can I return natural stone?

Returns may be accepted by prior agreement, subject to our Returns Policy.

Goods must be unused, in their original condition and suitable for resale.

Certain products may be non-returnable where sourced or prepared specifically for a customer.

Are dimensions exact?

Natural stone is produced within recognised manufacturing tolerances.

Minor dimensional variation is normal and should be expected.

Why are there filled holes in travertine?

Travertine naturally contains small voids formed during its creation.

These are commonly filled during manufacture to create a smoother surface while retaining the character of the stone.

Can I use natural stone in bathrooms?

Yes.

Natural stone has been used in bathrooms for centuries.

With correct specification, installation and maintenance it provides an elegant and durable finish.

Is natural stone environmentally friendly?

Natural stone is one of the most sustainable construction materials available.

It requires relatively little processing compared with many manufactured alternatives, has an exceptionally long lifespan and can often be reused or repurposed at the end of a building's life.

Every project is different, and choosing natural stone is often as much about aesthetics as technical performance.

If you're unsure which material is right for your project, or need advice on quantities, finishes, installation or maintenance, our team is always happy to help.

See our Knowledge Centre, call us on 01271 267840 or email help@insideoutstone.co.uk