Stone Surface Finish Guide – Types, Features & Applications
Choosing the right stone surface finish can significantly enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your stone projects. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular finishes, their characteristics, and where each type works best.
Types of Stone Surface Finish
A natural stone surface finish refers to the treatment or process applied to the surface of natural stone to achieve a particular texture, appearance, and functional property. These finishes are used to enhance the aesthetic appeal, durability, and slip resistance of the stone for various applications, including flooring, countertops, wall cladding, and outdoor paving.
Polished Finish
A polished surface is brilliant and shiny with a mirror-like effect, resulting in the most refined edge for tiles. The polishing process involves the repeated application of abrasive treatments. This type of finish is suitable for nearly all types of stones and is especially common in Iranian stone factories. Polished tiles are ideal for interiors, bench tops and countertops, but are not recommended for outdoor use due to reduced slip resistance. The polished finish is the most popular choice for marble stone.
Honed Finish
Honed finishing is the most common process for limestone, many varieties of which do not accept a polish. A honed finish refers to a smooth surface with a dull or slightly reflective appearance, less glossy than a polished finish. In high-traffic areas, floor tiles are often honed rather than polished.