Types of Stone Floor Textures

There are six main types of textures in stone flooring tile available today.

Honed: Provides a flat gloss to medium sheen, with a variety of levels of gloss available. The surface is very smooth, but often porous. This texture is common in high traffic buildings. Honed stone colors appear somewhat polished, but not as vibrant as a polished stone.

Polished: A deep, glossy, smooth surface finish that really brings out the natural coloring. The polished surface can wear away in time if subjected to heavy foot traffic and improper maintenance procedures. The shine is from the natural reflection of the stone's crystals rather than from a coating, which greatly enhances the natural grain of the stone.

Flamed: A rough, very porous surface that is developed through an intense heat processing. During manufacturing the stone is heated up until the crystals begin to pop, much like popcorn. The popping results in the rough surface.

Tumbled: A semi-rough texture achieved by tumbling small pieces of marble, limestone, or granite to achieve a worn, slightly eroded look.

Sand Blasted: This surface is the result of a pressurized flow of sand and water that provides a textured surface with a matte gloss.

Sawn: A process performed by using a gang saw, literally cutting the stone.