Limestone tiles in a home bring a sense of nature indoors. With regular sealing, this flooring can withstand a lot of wear and tear, thus lasting for years. Consider the following tips when choosing limestone flooring tiles for your home.

Keeping it Clean

Limestone comes in various shades, ranging from cream to earthy sands and pinks. The tiles can exhibit a lot of colour variation or relatively uniform hues. If you want to conceal footmarks, opt for darker tones with mottled patterns and variations. They'll maintain their looks better in high-traffic areas than pale, even limestone that may tend to show marks.

Indoors and Outdoors

Limestone is ideal flooring if you're looking for something to lay inside and outside your home to give it a seamless appearance. Its earthy look suits both environments. Plus, these tiles come in diverse shapes and sizes, which you can match to the setting. You can opt for large square tiles for a modern feel or a busier classic ashlar pattern.

Distinct designs in the garden and the home will add interest. The continuity of limestone, though, will create a harmonious whole. You'll need thicker tiles or pavers to withstand the rigours of the yard. And outdoor paving may need more frequent protective sealants as well.

The Practicality of Large or Small Tiles

The tile size is not only about creating a particular aesthetic. It also has practical implications. For example, small tiles may work better if the ground is not perfectly flat. They can more easily follow the contours of subtle, uneven gradients. However, you might be concerned about creating a sense of spaciousness for your kitchen or patio and wonder what flooring is best. In that case, larger tiles with fewer grout lines will open up the area.

Edges and Surface

The texture and edges of limestone tiles also impact their appearance. For example, square-cut tiles in alignment create simple lines on the floor. For a natural, rustic vibe, pick tiles with tumbled edges that are slightly uneven. Limestone can be finished differently as well. 

Acid-etched limestone has an antiqued look, while honed tiles are smooth. Sandblasting makes the flooring look weathered and lived-in, or you can install polished limestone. A brushed finish gives a roughened texture that offers excellent grip, making the flooring less slippery and thus safer. You can also get tiles with a combination of finishes, such as tumbled and brushed tiles, to give them a unique look.