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SELECTING THE RIGHT STONE
With so many types , colours and finishes of natural stone to choose from , it helps to have a guiding hand through the selection process . Below are some useful tips in navigating the beautiful world of natural stone .
1 . Start out by making an initial selection of three or four “ possibles ” and ask for indicative samples .
2 . Check out the Environmental and Ethical credentials of each stone :
a . Ask to see the Environmental Product Declaration ( EPD ), a document detailing the environmental performance of the stone over its lifetime .
b . Alternatively , ask the quarry for ISO 14001 – Environmental Management System or their EU Eco -Management and Audit Scheme . c . For Ethical Sourcing BES 6001 Framework is the current benchmark . d . As part of their planning application UK quarries should also have an environmental impact statement you can ask to read .
Note : The Stone Federation of
Great Britain operates a list of UK stones supported by EPDs and has an Ethical Stone register for UK operators . Neither of these is exhaustive but will give you an idea of what to look for .
3 . Test data . The Declaration of Performance , supplied in accordance with BSEN 1469 ( cladding ), BSEN 12058 ( floor slabs ), BSEN 12057 ( tiling ), BSEN 1341 ( paving ), presents common test data to allow comparison between stones .
a . Use a stone expert to assist in assessing the stones likely performance . b . Also look at historical use in similar applications , particularly when assessing durability . c . Further test the stone if the design requires it , or there is no history of use , or the environment is wet or damp – pools and wet rooms .
Note : Remember , it is the designer ’ s responsibility to confirm the stone is fit for the intended purpose .
4 . Range Sample : Approximately 600x600mm is a decent size . The supplier should make sure samples demonstrate all the following features of the stone :
a . Variations in colour . b . Variations in texture . c . Veining . d . Shell content . e . Grain size . f . The use of patching , fillers or other products to fill natural holes , cracks or faults within the stone .
5 . Quarry or factory visit : As an alternative to range samples , you may be invited on a trip to a factory or quarry abroad or to the suppliers UK yard .
a . Look at the first , middle and last slab in any block . Natural veining and colour will move and change . b . Be clear what is acceptable and what is not . c . Mark the slabs , take photographs and record the findings . d . Ask for samples of the selection . Three sets - one for site , one for the design office and one for the factory - to compare with production when it arrives on site .
Note : Just be aware that if you reject substantial amounts of the slab then the cost of the supply will rise , and production time will increase . Why ? Because the supplier must quarry more blocks to meet a narrower selection .
If the price exceeds the budget you may have to move on to one of the other initial choices or accept nature as it is .
More information on selecting the right stone including understanding test data , assistance with the selection process , costs , dry lays and specification contact Robert Merry info @ stoneconsultants . co . uk | m : 07771997621 ws : stoneconsultants . co . uk