Category: Tile

Ceramic Tile vs. Porcelain Tile

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
ceramic tile vs. porcelain tile

Available in many different shapes, sizes and colors, tile is big for projects throughout the home, from backsplashes to flooring to tub surrounds to shower walls. Thus arises the dilemma of which is better for certain purposes: ceramic tile vs. porcelain tile?

Even though they have certain features in common, they’re not interchangeable as some people assume. Both have their own pros and cons, depending on the application and your personal preferences.

Ceramic Tile vs. Porcelain Tile

While both tile materials are quite versatile, they differ in ways which can definitely make a difference. To break down the characteristics that set apart these tile varieties one by one, let’s answer some common questions about ceramic tile vs. porcelain tile:

  • How dense is it? – Porcelain gets a higher score here, as it is fired at a higher temperature, making it more dense than ceramic. Composition also factors in – ceramic is crafted from clay while porcelain is made from feldspar, sand and clay, a combination which ultimately makes for a higher density as well.
  • How porous is it? – Porcelain is less porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb as much water and can in turn work better in moisture-prone areas (though the grout in between tiles will need sealing in any case).
  • Can it be used outdoors? – Porcelain – yes; ceramic – no. Once again, this goes back to composition, firing temperature and density. For applications outside the home, consider porcelain tile or another weather-resistant material.
  • How easy is it to fabricate and install? – This is one place where ceramic has the advantage. Since it is less dense, it is easier to cut and shape to fit a unique space, and it solves concerns about surfaces feeling too hard to the touch. Still, ceramic is durable enough to last a long time in an active environment.
  • How much does it cost? – This will vary with the specific style chosen, but ceramic tends to be less pricey since it’s easier to install.
  • What are my design options? – Porcelain and ceramic tile can both be made to convincingly mimic materials like wood and marble, in addition to the classic tile looks. If you’re looking for a hardwearing surface with a certain pattern, compare the options you get with ceramic tile vs. porcelain tile – there’s a ton to choose from in both categories! Porcelain is also available in “slab” form, if you’d like a larger format tile with less grout in between to maintain.

As you can see, there are some essential nuances to consider when it comes to ceramic tile vs. porcelain tile. Choosing between the two – or between tile and another material – can be tricky in some cases. Luckily, our well-educated surface experts are here to help!

Plan Your Surface Project with Our Professionals

Whether you’re doing a renovation or a new installation in your bathroom, kitchen, outdoor living area or elsewhere on your property, selecting a well-suited material is important to ensure its longevity and your extended satisfaction.

At Cosmos, we have extensive knowledge about all the different surface options out there, and we can help you compare options to find your best match. Factors we’ll take into account along the way include:

  • Your design preferences (color, pattern, texture, etc.)
  • Your application (indoor, outdoor, high- or low-moisture area)
  • Your maintenance preferences (sealing, cleaning, etc.)
  • Your budget (including both materials and installation costs)

With this information, our experts can help you narrow down the many options to a few most suitable picks, making the process easier and less stressful for you. We have showrooms across the U.S. where you can meet with us in person, or you can reach out on our website to receive the same high level of service from wherever you are.

Let’s Get Started!

If you’ve been curious about ceramic tile vs. porcelain tile, exploring our online gallery is a great way to get started on deciding which is right for your project – or if another surface may be a better fit.

Browse our website to preview our offerings, which include porcelain slabs that look like marble along with a generous selection of other tile options. From the ornate Magma collection to the classic Innova line, there’s something to match every vision. Reach out today to get started on realizing yours!

Color of the Month: Butter

Butter is a soft, soothing citrus yellow with mustard undertones. It is perfect for a cheery bathroom or kitchen, especially when paired with bold whites.

snow fall

True to its name, Snow Fall brings to mind memories of looking outside at freshly fallen snow. Predominantly white, flecks of crystalline black create a striking juxtaposition in this wintry scene. Snow Fall is perfect for modern spaces and creates a bright, fresh, and open atmosphere that complements steel and black wonderfully.

sicily gold

The contrast of brilliant, shimmering gold with pure white porcelain is the thrilling essence of Sicily Gold. It is the meeting of luxury and refinement, a gilded chance encounter resulting in complete balance. Designed for use inside or outdoors, it is the perfect choice for floors, counters and walls in kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.

Stone Flooring vs. Manmade: How Does it Hold Up?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
stone flooring

Are you ready to upgrade the flooring in a certain room or all throughout your home? You may find yourself at a fork in the road where you must decide between a manufactured floor or natural stone flooring. Both can have their pros and cons, so the better choice will ultimately depend on your specific priorities. Today, we’ll give you a closer look at how various manmade vs. natural floors tend to stand the test of time, what type of care they require and other key considerations.

Stone Flooring vs. Manmade: How Does it Hold Up?

Natural Stone

From marble to granite to quartzite to soapstone, there are a number of different natural stone flooring options which can perform marvelously over time with proper maintenance. By nature, these stones tend to feature a high level of durability, slip resistance and heat/UV resistance. 

One thing to be aware of when considering natural stone options is that many are porous; in other words, they can absorb water, stains and spills. Here’s what this means:

  • Porous stone surfaces will typically need to be sealed to protect against moisture intrusion, staining and etching.
  • When sealed according to the manufacturer instructions and on a proper schedule, a natural stone floor will be easy to care for using a cleaner approved for use on such materials.
  • Impregnating sealers usually offer the best protection and the most longevity on stones like marble, granite and quartzite.
  • If you’re looking for a stone floor you won’t have to seal, check out soapstone. The rare non-porous natural stone, it’s great for moist areas like the bathroom, where a slip proof floor is key.

So long as you stay on top of sealing it regularly (if necessary), natural stone flooring can deliver years of beauty, resilience and easy maintenance. With many varieties being readily resistant to fading, foot traffic and other everyday wear and tear, natural stone brings boundless options for refreshing the aesthetic and lastingness of floors throughout your home. It’s also a distinctly sustainable option that allows you to bring the Earth’s own natural splendors into your interior.

Manmade Options 

While natural stone has clear advantages, there are some applications for which you may wish to explore manufactured materials as well. Engineered quartz, ceramic and porcelain are a few alternatives of interest for those seeking a durable and easily-cared-for floor that’s made to last. 

Here are a few notable benefits (and some possible downfalls) to keep in mind:

  • Ceramic and porcelain are both rather durable. However, porcelain is generally more dense and less porous, thus boosting its ability to stand up to moisture and heavier foot traffic. But, ceramic tends to have the upper hand in terms of ease of use and affordability. Either material is unlikely to require sealing, although the grout in between tiles/pieces probably will need to be sealed for best results.
  • Engineered quartz is available in a vast range of gorgeous patterns which make for a stunning floor. Remarkably tough and scratch/stain resistant, it has few maintenance requirements and usually doesn’t need to be sealed. But, this surface can be hard to handle and thus may have a high price tag compared to other comparably durable choices. 
  • By virtue of being manufactured rather than quarried, manmade flooring options can come with concerns about chemicals. Even with heightened standards to prevent health and safety hazards and minimize environmental impact, this is something to keep in mind.

Hopefully this has helped to expand your awareness of the major differences between natural stone flooring versus manmade surface options. If you still need help making the right choice for your particular flooring renovation project, look no further than the experts at Cosmos Surfaces! 

Expectation-Exceeding Products, Service and Expertise 

Our second-generation surfacing specialists bring extensive knowledge of all the different surface selections we offer, which span from natural stone to engineered alternatives. When you source your new floor from Cosmos Surfaces – whether you opt for natural stone or another material – you can count on a highly positive experience from start to finish.

A few standouts from our collection include Alpine White granite, Blue Sky marble, Citrino quartzite, Calacatta Vintage quartz and Taj Mahal porcelain, just to name a few. Eager to explore our inventory and get personalized recommendations for stone flooring or other suitable options that align with your preferences and project specifications? Browse our online gallery and get in touch today! 

Color of the Month: Serenity

Serenity is a misty light blue with notes of soothing grey. It creates a calming atmosphere in any room, perfect for a spa-like bedroom or bathroom.

Azurra Bay quartzite combines a light blue background, with interweaving greyish-white layers giving the illusion of overlapping waves. The multi-directional lines in this Brazilian quartzite draw your sight away from the center giving a sense of spaciousness to any room it is used in. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

A cloudless blue sky meets the regal and dignified columns of ancient Rome is what Azul Imperiale brings to the imagination. A striking gold cuts through the mellow blue background, giving this Brazilian quartzite depth and beauty. Azul Imperiale creates a soft and light atmosphere, making it perfect for bathrooms and exterior environments. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

What Are the Properties of Granite Surfaces?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
properties of granite

Strikingly beautiful, resilient and simple to maintain, granite is a natural stone that has earned well-deserved acclaim around the world. It has a wide array of possible applications, ranging from indoor/outdoor countertops to backsplashes to tub surrounds to floors/walkways. To conserve the uniquely gorgeous appearance of these surfaces over time, it’s important to be aware of the properties of granite and the corresponding care requirements. This will be our focus today.

What Are the Properties of Granite Surfaces?

Granite is:

  • Impressively hard – Ranking as a 6-7 on the Mohs scale of surface hardness (with 1 being softest and 10 being hardest), granite is quite hard. Its dense composition gives it a superb ability to resist scratches, chips and cracks, even with frequent, heavy use. This isn’t to say that these imperfections can’t happen, but they’re less likely to occur on granite than on softer stones.
  • Heat resistant – Going hand in hand with its scratch resistance, granite can take some heat without issue. Still, it’s best to use hot pads, trivets and chopping boards to be on the safe side, as the stone isn’t totally invulnerable. (Also, cutting directly on granite may damage your knives or compromise the sealant.)
  • Porous – Most varieties of granite (as well as its natural stone cousins) are porous, meaning they have tiny “pores” which can take on water, air and bacteria. In turn, it’s highly recommended to seal and regularly reseal granite to protect against discoloration, mold/mildew and other potential damage from leaving the surface penetrable.
  • Varied in color – Originating from deep within the Earth, granite is a kind of magmatic rock that can come in a wide spectrum of different shades and patterns, depending on the mineral composition of a specific variety/slab and the conditions under which it formed. You can find granite featuring colors across the rainbow, from red to pink to yellow to green to off-white and black. No two pieces are exactly alike!

Keeping Granite Surfaces Fresh, Clean and Stunning 

Now that we’ve covered the main properties of granite, we’d like to tell you a bit more about how to properly care for it in your daily life and the long term. To do so, let’s answer a few FAQs:

  • What should I use to clean granite? – Cleaners specifically designed and approved for use on natural stone are always best. Sticking to these will help ensure your granite surfaces don’t lose their luster, look streaky from left-behind residue or develop unsightly marks due to a chemical reaction called etching. 
  • How do I prevent granite from becoming dull or damaged? – Small preventative maintenance steps done on a regular basis will go a long way to keep your granite looking like new. Practices to prioritize include cleaning up spills or splashes right away, wiping counters daily with a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner, promptly wiping up water around sinks/faucets, using coasters for cups and storing soaps/cleaning products on a dish to prevent water rings. 
  • How often does granite need to be sealed? – As we mentioned above, sealing is of paramount importance to keep your granite from absorbing and harboring liquids, food particles, stains and germs. Your fabricator/installer should seal the granite the first time, but you’ll want to reseal as time goes on. Top-quality sealers can offer up to ten years of protection, but keep an eye out for signs that resealing is needed sooner – dark spots and other types of discoloration are giveaways that the sealant coat isn’t doing its job anymore.

Hopefully the properties of granite overview and additional tips we’ve provided here have been helpful in informing you of granite’s qualities and what’s involved in its upkeep. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to our experts! We can also help you select the perfect surface for your project, according to your aesthetic tastes, application, care preferences and budget. 

Explore Granite & Much More with Cosmos Surfaces 

Granite is just the beginning of our wide selection of surfaces! Along with enchanting granites like Bianco Frost and Centaurus, we also offer marble, quartzite, soapstone, porcelain, quartz and other wondrous surface options. You can compare all the different choices via our online gallery, or make an appointment at one of our showrooms scattered across the nation!

Color of the Month: Silver Mist

Silver Mist is an arctic blue-grey with cool twilight undertones. It is perfect for adding an air of serenity to any room, especially when paired with rich dark cherry furniture.

Silver Lightning is a versatile type of granite that looks great among stainless steel and black cabinets. A flashy streak of silver cutting through a mellow gray sky, silver lightning is simultaneously calm and striking. The subtle crystalline texture and honed finish of silver lightning make this a perfect installation for kitchen countertops, floors, and bathroom vanities.

Luce Di Luna is an elegant, intricately textured type of dolomite marble. Thanks to naturally occurring, often intersecting lines in the stone, it’s easy to get lost in the pattern. Fittingly, its name translates to “light from the moon,” which perfectly describes its soft and brilliant white-gray coloring. It is commonly used for countertops, floors and interior walls.

Can You Use Bleach on Marble?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
can you use bleach on marble

Since the era of classical antiquity, marble has been renowned for its stately beauty and spectacular resilience. In the modern day, whether you use marble for a countertop, floor or accent wall in your home, it’s important to keep it clean – and to use the proper materials and methods to do so. To sanitize marble in your cleaning routine, you might wonder: Can you use bleach on marble? Because bleach is a harsh, acidic cleaner, it can damage marble and other natural stones. Thus, it’s best to avoid using it. So, let’s talk about the right way to maintain the cleanliness of your marble surfaces on a day-to-day basis while preserving their beauty over time.

Can You Use Bleach on Marble?

Although natural stones like marble are known for being quite tough and durable, they don’t pair well with heavy-duty cleaning agents such as bleach, nor with environmentally friendly alternatives like vinegar. These acidic substances can damage natural stone by dulling its splendor or causing a chemical reaction known as etching, which results in difficult-to-reverse marks being left on the stone’s surface. Thus, we respond with a firm “no” to the question of “can you use bleach on marble?” – one of the most common mistakes made when cleaning natural stone. 

To avoid undesired blemishes, it’s best to stick with cleaners specifically approved for natural stone for marble and its relatives. Here are a few additional tips on caring for various natural stone surfaces:

  • Warm water and gentle dish detergent are typically fine as well, although it’s important to make sure you’re using a non-abrasive sponge. Our surface experts advise cleaning and wiping down marble counters, vanity tops or shower walls with a microfiber cloth for best results.
  • If you go for a natural stone floor, keep in mind that it can be scratched by abrasive debris. To prevent cosmetic imperfections, get in the habit of sweeping, mopping or vacuuming on a regular basis so your floors remain free of dirt and grime. For added protection and control in high-traffic areas like your entryway, you might also put down washable rugs or runners.

Now that we’ve clarified why the answer to “can you use bleach on marble?” is that it’s not recommended, we’d like to share a few more pieces of wisdom on keeping your natural stone surfaces pristine. Specifically, let’s talk about more things that can be potentially harmful to natural stone and how to safeguard your surfaces against them.

What Else to Know About Maintaining Marble

Beyond incompatible cleaners, other acidic substances may also lead to physical damage of natural stones such as marble. Examples include:

  • Fruit juice
  • Wine
  • Coffee
  • Certain condiments/sauces

To protect natural stone surfaces against staining and etching as well as moisture and bacteria intrusion, it’s highly beneficial to have them sealed as recommended by the manufacturer. The necessary frequency of this maintenance step will vary based on the particular surface variety and application. 

With high-quality sealers, the guideline for resealing is around once every 3-10 years, depending on the material, its porosity level and how much use it gets. Because marble tends to be one of the more porous natural stones, it may need to be resealed annually to maintain a germ and moistureproof surface. If you begin to notice darkened spots on your natural stone, this is your cue to reseal.

As an important note, even on sealed marble, any spills should be cleaned up promptly to prevent etching, staining or premature wearing down of the sealant. 

Discover the Natural Stone of Your Dreams at Cosmos Surfaces

Eager to peruse a range of marble varieties and other excellent natural stone options for a renovation project you’re planning? Allow us to show you what’s in store at Cosmos Surfaces! 

With showrooms across the U.S., our selection is unparalleled, as is our customer service. Our experts are here to point you in the right direction based on your aesthetic goals, maintenance preferences and project budget. 

Available from Cosmos is everything from classic marbles like Carrara White to more unexpected choices like Caravaggio. Beyond marble, our array of surfaces includes everything from granite to engineered quartz to tile. To begin working with one of our surface specialists and learn more, reach out today on our website. We’ll be in touch promptly, but feel free to explore our online gallery in the meantime! 

Color of the Month: Silver Mist

Silver Mist is an arctic blue-grey with cool twilight undertones. It is perfect for adding an air of serenity to any room, especially when paired with rich dark cherry furniture.

True to its name, Macaubus Fantasy brings to mind a calm, cool breeze across relaxing oceans. Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms or outdoor surfaces and tiles, this versatile white quartzite swirls shades of blue, grey, and subtle tans across a white background. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Much like its namesake, this beautiful milky white Brazilian granite is adorned by small flecks of deep black. The gray crystals add an element of depth to the stone while the streaks of light gray add movement. The consistent and clean pattern of the Pitaya makes it a great choice for highlighting bolder design elements in the area. Pitaya is best used as a countertop, vanity top, or backsplash.

What Is the Most Durable Countertop Material?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
most durable countertop material

Providing an area to prepare and enjoy meals, conversation and the company of your loved ones, your countertop is a pillar of your kitchen or entertaining space. Plus, it’s likely a focal point of the room design. So, it’s important to make sure it can stand up to frequent use while retaining its beauty over time. If you’re searching for the most durable countertop material, you have quite a few options, as there are many resilient choices. Quartz, soapstone, porcelain, quartzite and granite have all earned their place as standouts.

Ultimately, the right countertop material for your home will depend on your personal preferences and specifications. Our surfacing specialists are here to help you compare some of the top options by breaking down their features and differences.

What Is the Most Durable Countertop Material? 

In pursuit of a countertop that’s very well suited to your particular purposes, here are a few helpful questions to ask yourself:

  • Will your countertop be installed indoors or out? – If you’re shopping for an outdoor kitchen counter or bar top, it’s key to confirm its compatibility with the elements. Natural stones like quartzite and granite are built to last, even in the face of harsh weather and fluctuating temperatures. Porcelain is also commonly used for outdoor applications and sunny spaces, thanks to its capacity to resist fading along with moisture. For outside counters, you’ll want to avoid porous materials (which can be damaged by water), as well as materials containing resin binders (like quartz), as these may warp or melt when exposed to direct sunlight and high heat. 
  • Are you okay with having to seal your countertop on occasion? – Choosing a natural stone countertop means you’ll likely need to have it sealed at regular intervals to keep it from taking on moisture, bacteria and stains. If you’re more keen on a non-porous countertop that doesn’t require sealing, consider soapstone or quartz. 
  • How hard of a countertop would you like? – When it comes to countertops, hardness and durability go hand in hand. The hardness of various stones is ranked on the Mohs scale, with quartz, quartzite and granite being at the upper end. While less dense, soapstone and porcelain can still handle everyday wear and tear rather well, although there is a greater risk of scratches and chips in a high-traffic space.
  • What are your maintenance preferences? – Different surfaces have different care requirements. For instance, it’s best to use a cleaner that’s designed specifically for natural stone on granite and its counterparts. Meanwhile, soapstone and quartz are considered especially low maintenance, as they can be cleaned with a simple mixture of mild soap and water with no risk of harming the surface. If you’re seeking the most durable countertop material that’s also zero fuss, this may be something to think about.
  • What is your budget? – Countertop material pricing can vary quite a bit, even within a specific category. Also, when special equipment and techniques are required for proper installation, this can result in a higher price. Be sure to inquire about the cost of installation along with the price of the material itself when comparing different options. 

In addition to these factors, your desired aesthetic will also play a key role in determining your perfect countertop match. At Cosmos Surfaces, we offer a sweeping range of countertop options to explore, from various kinds of natural stone to man-made materials like engineered quartz.

In our showrooms across the nation and our online gallery, you’ll find a spectacular array of hues, patterns and textures to pick from, some made by the Earth and others by expert engineering. We are proud to have exquisite offerings for every budget.

Allow yourself to be dazzled by Cardinal Red quartzite, Evian White granite, Jade soapstone and a wealth of other elegant options available from Cosmos Surfaces. Feel free to peruse all the possibilities, or describe your design vision to us so we can help you narrow it down.

Reach Out to Cosmos for Help Selecting a Winning Countertop 

Eager to discover the most durable countertop material that best fits your needs and desires? Count on Cosmos Surfaces for professional guidance! Contact us via our website, and someone from our team of knowledgeable surface experts will be happy to assist you. Or, locate the Cosmos showroom closest to you and come see our amazing selection in person! Either way, we’ll provide top-quality advice to match our top-quality surfaces. 

Color of the Month: Emerald

Emerald is a muted, shaded aqua-green with jungle green undertones. Pair with lemony yellows for a soft glow, or with ebony black for a stunning contrast.

On Kamarica granite, sea foam green, rust orange, soft ivory and space gray swirl and twirl with one another to produce magical shapes. Bold yet sophisticated, this exotic, naturally occurring Brazilian stone is an awe-inspiring choice that works well for countertops, backsplashes, window sills, walls and many other interior design projects.

Like black soapstone, jade soapstone has a deep and dark color, rich in its elegance. Its sleek appearance matches its smoothly honed finish. Jade soapstone’s cool color makes it great for countertops and fireplaces, as well as backsplashes and poolside bars. Jade soapstone matches well with soft grays and wood alike.

Do Porcelain Tiles Crack Easily? & Other FAQs

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
do porcelain tiles crack easily

Porcelain tile is a common choice for a wide array of applications, both inside and outside of the home. When contemplating using this surfacing material for a specific project, it’s only natural to wonder: Do porcelain tiles crack easily? Whether you’re considering it for a countertop, an interior floor or a patio, getting the full scoop on porcelain and its properties is wise to verify that it’s the best match for your purposes. Our trusted second generation family owned surfacing products supplier is here to provide all the information you need to make an informed decision!

Do Porcelain Tiles Crack Easily? & Other FAQs

If you’re seeking a surface that’s as hardwearing as it is aesthetically appealing, porcelain could very well be just what you’re looking for. Thanks to advanced engineering techniques, porcelain tile can be tailored to fit renovation projects in your kitchen, bathroom or even your outdoor living space. Let’s answer a few popular FAQs about the features of porcelain tile:

  • Do porcelain tiles crack easily? – Simply put: no! Among tile options, porcelain stands out as a very strong and durable choice. It’s denser than its ceramic and vinyl counterparts, although not quite as hard as some natural stones (such as quartzite). Still, you can depend on porcelain to perform well over time, even when subjected to heavy traffic in a residential or commercial space. 
  • Is porcelain water resistant? – Yes indeed! Porcelain is made to repel moisture and, in turn, to minimize slipperiness and maximize traction, making it an excellent choice for showers, bathroom floors & walls and outdoor applications. Certain varieties are even rated as frostproof! 
  • How do I care for porcelain? – Since it’s water resistant, porcelain typically doesn’t require sealing like most natural stones do. However, it is important to regularly seal and clean the grout in between tiles to defend against bacteria, mold and stains there. The porcelain itself can be safely refreshed as needed using just about any household cleaner.
  • Will porcelain fade? – Not easily. Whether installed indoors or out, porcelain is known to retain its beautiful original coloring throughout the years. This is yet another point of favor for porcelain and its longevity. 
  • How much does porcelain cost to install? – The exact figure will depend on several factors, including the particular variety of porcelain chosen and the application. Because engineering and installing porcelain properly requires special knowledge and equipment, it can be a bit pricier than some other surfacing materials. Still, porcelain tends to be more affordable than natural stone in many cases, but with comparable levels of resilience and attractiveness.

Now that you’ve read up on porcelain tile’s properties, pros and potential cons, you may be excited to explore some options available from Cosmos Surfaces. We offer a vast selection of gorgeous, longwearing porcelain in a range of different hues, patterns, shapes and sizes, including large format slabs. Varieties span from subtly toned tile to charming wood-look porcelain to marble-mimicking porcelain featuring attention-grabbing veining. It all comes down to which look you most desire!

If you’re interested in large format porcelain as a possible wall, floor or countertop material, take your pick between Ocean Grey, Portoro, Sicily Gold and other elegant varieties. We also offer smaller pieces of porcelain tile to create dazzling tub surrounds, vanity tops and backsplashes. If you believe natural stone or another material may better suit your project, don’t stop at porcelain – feel free to browse our entire online gallery! 

Look to Us for Reliable Advice and Top-Quality Surfaces  

Want more details on a certain surface you’ve got your eye on? We’re always happy to answer questions such as “do porcelain tiles crack easily?” in the interest of helping our customers locate the all-around most ideal option for their project! Share your vision with our pros, and we’ll steer you towards surfaces that check all of your boxes and stay within your budget.

To begin working with one of our knowledgeable consultants, reach out to us online today. Or, find the Cosmos showroom closest to you (we have locations across the nation) to compare our stunning surface options in person with an expert from our team! Either way, our customer service-focused specialists look forward to helping you find the surface of your dreams.

Color of the Month: Emerald

Emerald is a muted, shaded aqua-green with jungle green undertones. Pair with lemony yellows for a soft glow, or with ebony black for a stunning contrast.

Named after the famous Renaissance artist, Botticelli is an artful masterpiece. Intensely complex, Botticelli is comprised of swirls, waves, and layers of color. Browns and golds meet grays and blacks in this Brazilian quartzite. Whether for flooring, tables, or countertops, Botticelli is sure to turn any room into a work of art. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Mountains of colors come to life in the quartzite named Galapagos. Galapagos brings to mind an aerial view of a cloudy mountainous, with peaks of green, rivers of blue and shadows of black. Unique layers and bands of color create a bold tone that looks great among blacks and silvers. Galapagos makes for interesting and artistic countertops and tables. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Natural Stone Backsplash FAQs

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
natural stone backsplash

If you’re aiming to beautify your kitchen or bathroom, adding a natural stone backsplash will definitely help you accomplish this goal. Not only will it look exquisite; a stone backsplash will also make any food or liquid splatter easier to clean off. Different types of natural stone have varying properties, so let’s answer some commonly asked questions that will help you determine the very best option for your personal kitchen or bathroom.

Natural Stone Backsplash FAQs

When considering natural stone for a backsplash application, there are several things you might be curious about. For instance:

  • Which materials are best? – The answer to this depends on the look you are going for, as well as practical considerations like hardness/durability level. Natural stones range in hardness – from softer stones like soapstone and marble to harder stones like granite and quartzite – as well as in their typical hues and patterns. Before saying yes to a natural stone you love the appearance of, be sure to discuss its durability, expected longevity and care needs with a reputable surfaces supplier like Cosmos.
  • Does natural stone need to be sealed? – Sealing/resealing requirements may vary based on the specific type of natural stone you select. Most natural stone surfaces are porous and so will need to be properly sealed and resealed over time to prevent staining and moisture intrusion. This is especially true for a backsplash in an active kitchen or bathroom, where splashes are bound to end up on the walls from time to time. As an example, it’s advised that quartzite be resealed around twice a year in a room that gets daily use.
  • What about the grout? – Like the stone itself, the grout in between pieces on a backsplash will most likely need to be sealed on a regular basis. This maintenance step will help slow down wear and tear, strengthen the grout to prevent damage to the stone it surrounds and guard against grime, moisture, mold & mildew and staining.
  • How do you clean a natural stone backsplash? – Simply wipe the stone with a cloth or non-abrasive sponge as needed to keep it looking pristine. For both everyday care and tougher messes, be sure to use a cleaner that’s approved for natural stone surfaces. Generally, pH-neutral cleaners work best, and acidic products should be avoided to prevent damage/possible chemical reactions with the stone.
  • How do you clean the grout? – We can’t emphasize enough that caring for the grout is an essential step in preserving the unique beauty of a natural stone backsplash! To handle stubborn buildup, discoloration or stains on grout lines, a stone-safe grout cleaner and a soft-bristled scrub brush will work wonders. 

We hope this overview has helped you understand the possible pros and cons of choosing a natural stone backsplash. If you’re interested in getting more in-depth information on the features of specific stones, check out our comparison of different kitchen backsplash materials.

Alternatives to a Natural Stone Backsplash 

Looking for a no-fuss backsplash material that doesn’t require sealing? Engineered quartz is a terrific low-maintenance option that comes in a vast range of colors and patterns, some of which can even impressively imitate the distinct look of natural stone! For instance, Calacatta Luna is a striking white and gray quartz that brings traditional marble to mind.

Ceramic tile is another man-made material which can be fashioned to look like marvelous natural stone or even hardwood, thanks to manufacturing advances.

*Keep in mind that the grout between tiles will still need to be sealed for these natural stone alternatives.

Partner with Cosmos to Find Your Ideal Backsplash

From one-of-a-kind, earth-forged natural stone (including soapstone, granite, marble, quartzite and more) to ceramic tile to quartz, Cosmos Surfaces provides a world of wondrous options fit for your kitchen or bathroom backsplash. We even offer dazzling semi-precious stones like Blue Agate for the discerning homeowner eager to make their backsplash a true work of art.

If you’re eager to discover the perfect match for your design vision, room setup and care preferences, reach out to our surfacing specialists today. We’ve curated an online gallery where you can view samples and learn more about our superb selections, and we also have showrooms across the country that you can visit to see them in real life before making your decision. 

Color of the Month: Paperplane

Paperplane is a soft, gray, sepia greige with an umber undertone. This soothing, pleasing neutral elevates any room and pairs beautifully with grayed or creamy whites.

Azurra Bay quartzite combines a light blue background, with interweaving grey-white layers giving the illusion of overlapping waves. The multi-directional lines in this Brazilian quartzite draw your sight away from the center giving a sense of spaciousness to any room it is used in. 

A wondrous plateau of glimmering alabaster, charcoal gray, caramel and hints of cherry red, Bianco Romano is a type of granite fit for royalty. Capable of withstanding freezing temperatures, this Brazilian stone can be used in outdoor applications as well as indoor ones. Leverage its grace and panache to fashion outstanding countertops, outdoor living area features and more.

Pros and Cons of a Marble Kitchen Floor

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
marble kitchen floor

Dating all the way back to the period of ancient Greece & Rome, marble is an ornate yet durable stone with an abundant array of possible uses. Easily identified by its sprawling veining pattern, this naturally occurring stone has certainly earned its reputation for elegance, endurance and ease of maintenance over time. With all of this in mind, you might contemplate adding a marble kitchen floor to your home. Today, Cosmos Surfaces will walk you through the distinctive features, advantages and things to be aware of when considering this surface for kitchen flooring.

Pros and Cons of a Marble Kitchen Floor

There are so many wonderful things about marble – but is it a good option for kitchen floors? Indeed, there are numerous advantages offered by a marble kitchen floor. Some of the main ones include:

  • Marble is uniquely and dramatically beautiful – Quarried in Brazil, Italy, the US and other countries around the world, marble is one of nature’s wonders. No two slabs are the same, making for a standout, one-of-a-kind kitchen floor. From classic to more daring, there are ample varieties to choose from to bring your kitchen design vision to life!
  • A range of finish options are available for marble – For a kitchen floor in particular, a honed finish is a suitable choice because it provides traction to minimize the risk of slips and falls. This finish is warmer and more matte than a polished finish, but ultimately safer and more practical for flooring applications.
  • Marble is relatively dense and long-wearing – While other natural stone floor options like granite may be a bit harder, marble’s durability is typically sufficient for a kitchen floor. The lower degree of hardness can actually be a good thing, too, as it lends a warmer and more inviting feel.
  • Marble retains and radiates heat readily – This makes it more comfortable under foot, whether you’re cooking, doing dishes or just passing through the kitchen space. 

Like any surfacing material, marble comes with drawbacks in certain settings. Here are a few potential downfalls to take into account when deciding if a marble kitchen floor is right for your home and family:

  • Installation can be costly – This is owing to the fact that properly installing a marble floor requires special techniques and professional expertise.
  • Marble itself can come at a premium price, especially for a larger surface area  – For some homeowners, this stunning stone featuring non-repeating patterns originating from the earth is well worth the cost.
  • Marble may scratch or chip more easily than its counterparts – This is a possible side effect of it being among the softer stone surfaces. Fortunately, it can be resurfaced, repolished and/or rehoned by a professional, should damage occur.
  • Marble is porous – In other words, it will be susceptible to intrusion by liquids and bacteria if left unsealed. So, you’ll likely want to keep up with having your marble kitchen floor sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining or water damage.

Preserving Marble Floors 

If you’ve made it through the pros and cons list and are still thinking you might love a marble kitchen floor, then it’s time to talk about best practices for marble care and maintenance. Thanks to their resilience, it doesn’t take much to take good care of marble floors. But of course, there are tips and tricks you should know and follow to avoid damage and extend the life of your marble kitchen floor:

  • To stay on top of dust and dirt, try to make sweeping your marble floor a part of your daily or weekly cleaning routine, depending on how much foot traffic your kitchen receives. Keep in mind that vacuuming isn’t recommended, since it can cause scratches and other imperfections on the porous surface.
  • Wipe up spills as soon as possible – especially acidic liquids like coffee, vinegar, fruit juice or wine. Most messes should be manageable with a damp microfiber cloth and mild dish soap. Avoid the use of scrubber sponges, as they can leave scratches on marble.
  • Any mild, non-abrasive cleaner should work safely and effectively on a marble floor, but it never hurts to double-check the manufacturer’s care instructions to make sure a product is a good match before using it.
  • Hard water deposits can etch marble surfaces. So, be sure to dry floors thoroughly with a dry mop pad after cleaning to prevent them from losing their brilliance or taking on etch marks.

Discover a World of Splendid Premium Marble for Various Applications

Now that you’ve gotten the full scoop on what to expect when installing marble as a kitchen floor, you might be eager to see examples of different marble varieties. Look no further than Cosmos Surfaces for a full selection of invigorating marble slabs and tile, spanning from traditional varieties like Calacatta Berrini to more colorful and charismatic choices like Blue Sky.

Whether you’re perusing for the perfect kitchen floor or for another surface in your home, our experts are here to help you make an informed, outstanding choice based on your project requirements and budget. We know the ins and outs of marble and other natural stone surfaces, as well as of engineered alternatives that mimic the look of nature-made stone. Browse our online marble gallery, visit your nearest Cosmos showroom or contact us on our website today to get started! 

Color of the Month: Intrigue

Intrigue is a dark spiced brown with warm red-rock undertones. It lends exquisite depth to a room when paired with light cream accents as a trim or accent wall.

Audax is a type of schist that is dynamically layered and one-of-a-kind. The layers create fluid bands of brown, black, silver, and white that is stunningly complex and pleasing to the eye. A work of art, audax looks great in kitchens and bathrooms. The long bands of layers can be installed as floors and countertops.

Elegant, powerful, beautiful – Roma Imperiale is one-of-a-kind. Crystals of white and gold crisscross and swirl, battling for dominance in this Brazilian quartzite. Roma Imperiale is complex, detailed, and stunning. It looks great among greenery and in bathrooms as vanities, bathtubs, and countertops. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Pros and Cons of Porcelain Tile for Bathroom Floor

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
porcelain tile for bathroom floor

When designing spaces throughout the home, it’s important to think about both function and aesthetics. For bathrooms in particular, elements which evoke feelings of serenity and will stand the test of time in a high-moisture environment are commonly wished for. To strike this balance, you might consider porcelain tile for bathroom floor. Today, our surface professionals are here to fill you in on the pros and possible cons of porcelain bathroom floors to help you decide if they’re a good fit for your project.

Pros and Cons of Porcelain Tile for Bathroom Floor

To land on the best flooring material for a bathroom renovation, it’s wise to take a comprehensive look at the perks and potential disadvantages of each option. Doing so will help you avoid unexpected surprises and make an informed choice, leading you to a floor that aligns with all your top priorities. 

Here’s a big-picture overview of what to know when evaluating whether porcelain tile fulfills your particular needs and desires for your new bathroom floor.

Pros 

  • Available in a wide range of patterns, porcelain gives you freedom to bring just about any design vision to life. Your eye might be caught by a spectacular veined slab simulating the look of marble (but at a more affordable price point), a more muted neutral-toned porcelain that lets surrounding elements take center stage or even a wood-look porcelain tile. The world is your oyster!
  • Versatility in tile size & shape adds to the allure of porcelain. By virtue of advanced engineering techniques, porcelain can be made in a full spectrum of sizes and shapes to suit different applications. Dazzling countertops and flowing floors for bathrooms can be easily achieved with large format porcelain slabs, while smaller projects like backsplashes and tub surrounds are also possible with porcelain tile.
  • Slip and water resistant, porcelain makes for a safe flooring option for bathrooms and beyond. You can count on it to give you great traction underfoot, even when used for a shower floor or another area where moisture is often present.
  • Invulnerable to sunlight, porcelain resists fading and maintains its color and radiance over time. You don’t have to fear using it in sunny spaces, or even outdoors!
  • Unfussy compared to its natural stone cousins, porcelain is among the most easily maintained options for bathroom floors, shower walls and more. It’s safe to use most household cleaners on porcelain surfaces, and you generally don’t have to worry about buffing or sealing them to keep their finish fresh. 
  • With inherent antibacterial/antimicrobial properties, porcelain is an especially excellent choice for the bathroom of a health-conscious homeowner. As an important note, it’s essential to regularly clean and seal the grout between tiles to prevent staining and mold growth. Luckily, large format tile typically doesn’t come with an excessive number of grout lines to maintain.

Possible Cons

  • Installation can be more costly for porcelain than for certain other materials, as special equipment and expertise are required to engineer and install porcelain properly. 
  • Porcelain is less hard than some natural stones (like quartzite), meaning it can be more susceptible to damage – especially with very heavy use over time. 
  • Scratches or chips may stand out – more so than on natural stone – since the surface pattern on porcelain might not run through the entire slab. 

As you can see, there’s a whole lot to love about porcelain tile for bathroom floors and more. But as with any surface, it comes with some characteristics that can be less than ideal, depending on what exactly you’re looking for. 

Before deciding on porcelain tile or another bathroom floor material, it’s important to be fully in the know about the features, from cost to maintenance requirements. Hopefully this rundown has been helpful in providing more insight into whether porcelain tile for bathroom floor installation might be right for you! For any questions you may still have, our surface specialists are here to assist.

Consult Our Pros for Help Finding Your Ideal Surface

If you’re eager to begin exploring porcelain slab, tile and other beautiful, versatile, long-wearing surface selections, we invite you to take a look at our online gallery. We also have showrooms across the US that you can visit, in case you’d like to compare our offerings in person. 

Whether you’re seeking an envy-worthy bathroom floor, kitchen counter or some other unique surface to enrich your home’s beauty, comfort and value, our knowledgeable team will be glad to help. Fill out our contact form today to get started!

Color of the Month: Onyx

Onyx is a cool, dark black with stone undertones. It lends a stately, serious look to any room, but is versatile enough to use alongside any color or texture.

Maori granite has a pattern that’s reminiscent of drawings on a chalkboard, with thin-to-wide, grayish-white lines intersecting on top of a stark black base. A striking and stylish stone, Maori is a suitable selection for anyone seeking an adventurously decorated granite countertop that will continue making a statement for years to come.

Waves and ripples of white and gray adorn this brilliant black granite dubbed Via Lactea from Brazil. The gentle veins and patterns of the Via Lactea create a compelling sight to behold when set against white cabinets.

What is the Best Stone for Shower Walls?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
best stone for shower walls

There’s nothing quite like a warm shower to help you unwind at the end of a stressful day. Adding natural stone elements to your bathroom can elevate this space and help you create a serene sanctuary, but what is the best stone for shower walls?

We invite you along as our experts discuss.

What is the Best Stone for Shower Walls?

Durability, aesthetics and ease of maintenance can all factor into the materials we choose for our homes. When it comes to selecting the best stone for shower walls, homeowners have several gorgeous options to consider. Let’s dive in. 

Marble for Shower Walls 

Marble is synonymous with luxury. This impressive stone has many desirable features for bathroom uses. Known for its soft, light coloring and intriguing veining patterns, marble is a timeless classic that will serve you well in the bathroom for many decades.   

Natural stone marble is porous, and one of the most notable points about selecting it for the shower is the importance of sealing and cleaning it often. Very light variations of marble can stain over time if homeowners neglect the necessary maintenance steps. 

As some marble has a high iron content, frequent exposure to water can cause it to rust and discolor unless it is properly sealed. By using an impregnating (penetrating) sealer, you’ll protect your marble investment from moisture damage, mold and staining or discoloration.

Marble sometimes gets a less favorable reputation as a high-maintenance stone, which might concern some homeowners. It’s wise to remember, however, that any material in the bathroom will require a little extra TLC to keep it from taking on moisture damage, discoloring with use and developing mold/mildew growth. 

Learn all about how to clean a marble shower here. 

Pro Tip: The vein composition in marble can be slightly more vulnerable to moisture damage. To mitigate this, opt for high grade marble with fewer inclusions and minimal veining. 

Granite for Shower Walls 

Granite is a beloved natural stone in the home. Durable, easy to maintain and available in a wide range of dramatic colors and patterns, granite can help you design the bathroom of your dreams. 

Granite is durable with a dense composition. This makes it less prone to absorbing moisture. Just like marble, however, granite will also need to be sealed and resealed often to protect it against moisture damage, staining and mold/mildew growth. 

Homeowners looking to incorporate a darker color scheme in their bathroom design will find plenty of gorgeous options in granite, though a range of lighter shades are available too. 

Pro Tip: Homeowners looking to install natural stone on shower floors will want to go with a slip-resistant natural stone finish, like a flamed or leathered finish.  

Quartzite for Shower Walls 

Quartzite is one of the hardest surfacing materials, which makes it perfect for standing up to daily wear and tear in a busy bathroom or kitchen. Compared to marble, which stands at a 3 on the Mohs hardness scale, quartzite has a Mohs hardness of 7.

Even though quartzite is so hard, it is still porous, which means it needs to be sealed. You can expect to have to seal quartzite about once every 10 years, or when you notice that the surface seems to be absorbing water and turning darker in wet areas. Properly sealed quartzite is easy to clean with mild household cleaners and a soft sponge.

Most quartzites are white or light in color due to their quartz content, but additional minerals in the stone can produce vivid colors. If you’re thinking of a lighter color scheme in your bathroom, quartzite is definitely a natural stone to consider.

Porcelain for Shower Walls

While not a natural stone, large format porcelain slabs should also be considered for shower walls. A porcelain slab shower is a low-maintenance, hardwearing option that is available in a wide range of colors and patterns. It can be cleaned with common household cleaning products and doesn’t need to be sealed. Porcelain is slip-resistant, which makes it a safe option for bathrooms. Some porcelain is even antibacterial and antimicrobial.

If you love the distinguished look of marble but want a lower-maintenance option for your shower, porcelain that looks like marble is a great option. Thanks to an advanced engineering process, porcelain can be made to mimic the characteristic veining and smooth texture of marble. Although porcelain slabs may be more affordable than natural stone, they can come with higher installation costs due to the experience and equipment needed to handle them.

Natural Stone Care for Bathrooms 

Diligent care is always important to help preserve natural stone investments in the home. This fact is even more pronounced in bathroom areas. Neglecting the proper cleaning and maintenance requirements can lead to cracks, mold growth, staining and discoloration. 

To care for natural stone in the shower, consider these cleaning tips:

  • Clean Stone Weekly — Opt for non-abrasive, neutral cleaners and clean stone showers weekly to remove dirt, grime, soap scum and mineral deposits. Always check in with a manufacturer to ensure that a cleaner is safe to use on your natural stone of choice. 
  • Ventilate the Area —  To prevent mold and mildew growth on stone surfaces and in grout, ensure proper ventilation after using the shower. This includes running the fan and opening doors and windows after each use. 
  • Wipe Down Excess Water —  Stones like marble can take on water stains and lose its luster with constant exposure to water. Homeowners can mitigate this by wiping down excess water after each use (a squeegee can also help remove residual water). 
  • Clean and Seal Grout — Whether you opt for natural stone or porcelain, the grout between any kind of tiles can become porous and vulnerable to staining and mold growth. It’s important to keep up with cleaning and sealing grout lines. You can find a primer on sealing grout here.  
  • Seal Stone Regularly — One of the most important maintenance activities you can perform on natural stone in the bathroom is to seal it regularly (every 1-3 years) with an impregnating sealer. Be sure to check in with a natural stone fabricator on how often to reseal your natural stone.  

Buy Natural Stone for Shower Surfaces 

If you have any questions about selecting the best stone for shower walls or bathroom areas, reach out to Cosmos today! We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our pro team is always happy to help. 

Ready to browse natural stone? See our selection here. 

Color of the Month: Castle Stone

Castle Stone is a subdued, midtone green with azure undertones. It is a soothing color that works well in bedrooms and sitting rooms. Pair it with soft cream or and white trim for a light and airy effect.

White crystal bands and silver streaks dance through the vast and layered green and brown background of this Brazilian granite. The high contrast color palette coupled with the unpredictable patterns of Vostok granite are sure to add motion and momentum to modern design elements.

True to its name, Macaubus Fantasy brings to mind a calm, cool breeze across relaxing oceans. Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms or outdoor surfaces and tiles, this versatile white quartzite swirls shades of blue, grey, and subtle tans across a white background. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Stone Finish Options: Pros and Cons

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
stone finish

Selecting the perfect natural stone for your home is a big decision. Different stone surfaces have different properties, and each brings a unique look and feel to a space. Aside from factors like its color, veining patterns and composition, the stone finish applied to stone countertops, tiles or other stone surfaces can dramatically change its look. Read on to learn all about different stone finishes and the pros and cons of each from the experts at Cosmos Surfaces.

Polished Stone Finish

A polished stone finish is achieved by mechanically rubbing or polishing a natural stone surface with polishing pads until the surface becomes smooth and shiny. A polished stone finish can be applied to any type of natural stone, including granite, marble and quartzite.

Pros of a Polished Stone Finish

Polished stone surfaces are a popular choice among homeowners. Here’s why:

  • Polished stones are less porous and therefore more durable and stain-resistant
  • The shiny look of polished stone adds a feel of newness and cleanliness
  • Polished stone helps achieve an elegant, luxurious aesthetic
  • This finish highlights a stone’s colors and patterns
  • A reflective finish tends to brighten a room and make a space feel larger

Cons of a Polished Stone Finish

Depending on the buyer’s preferences, these are potential deterrents when it comes to polished natural stone:

  • Polished finishes can draw attention to flaws in the stone
  • Smudges, stains and fingerprints are more visible
  • Acidic substances or abrasive cleaners can cause corrosion

Honed Stone Finish

A honed stone finish is smooth, much like a polished finish, but rather than a reflective, shiny look, honed surfaces are matte with a satiny, buffed appearance. This warm, inviting finish can be applied to all natural stone surfaces during the fabrication process. 

Pros of a Honed Stone Finish

Here’s why homeowners love honed stone finishes:

  • It creates a smooth work surface
  • Honed finishes are easy to clean
  • This finish conceals fingerprints and smudges
  • A honed finish can help create a laid-back, warm and inviting look

Cons of a Honed Stone Finish

Potential drawbacks of a honed finish include:

  • Honed finishes can slightly mute a stone’s color and patterning features
  • Chips and scratches can be more noticeable
  • This finish is slightly more porous than a polished finish, which means honed stone may need to be resealed more frequently than polished stone.

Leathered Stone Finish

A leathered finish, sometimes also known as an “antiqued” finish, is achieved by etching the stone with an implement like a wire or diamond-tipped brush. This technique gives the stone a weathered, rustic look. A leathered stone finish can be applied to marble, granite and quartzite stone surfaces, while buyers are advised to check in with fabricators when seeking this finish on other types of natural stone. 

Pros of a Leathered Stone Finish

Leathered stone finishes have benefits like these:

  • This finish has some texture but feels smooth to the touch
  • Leathered finishes have a unique, custom appearance
  • They help achieve a warm, rustic design aesthetic
  • Fingerprints, smudges and stains are more easily concealed
  • A leathered finish can enhance a stone’s color

Cons of a Leathered Stone Finish

All finishes have some drawbacks. Here’s what to watch out for with a leathered finish:

  • This finish has some texture to it, which can make cleaning slightly more challenging
  • The non-reflective nature of this finish can make a small space feel smaller
  • Chips and scratches may be noticeable

Flamed Stone Finish

A flamed stone finish, also known as a “thermal” finish, is achieved with a high-temperature torch. This creates a rough texture with a coarse finish. Granite and quartzite can both accept a flamed finish, while less durable stones cannot. 

Pros of a Flamed Stone Finish

Flamed finishes have the following benefits:

  • This finish creates a non-slip texture
  • Flamed finishes are less common, giving a space a unique, custom appearance
  • The coarse texture helps create a warm, earthy look and feel

Cons of a Flamed Stone Finish

Buyers should be aware of the following potential drawbacks of flamed stone finishes:

  • The rough texture of this finish makes it more difficult to clean
  • Flamed finishes leave stone surfaces more porous, requiring frequent sealing to protect against stains and moisture issues 

Sandblasted Stone Finish

A high-pressure stream of water and sand is applied to create a sandblasted stone finish. This process works on all types of natural stone, creating a rough, yet uniform texture. 

Pros of a Sandblasted Stone Finish

Sandblasted finishes have these unique features:

  • A silky, matte surface appearance 
  • This finish is popular for outdoor monuments, artwork, gravestones and statues
  • Sandblasted finishes can be coarse or fine, which creates either a darker or lighter finish, respectively

Cons of a Sandblasted Stone Finish

Here are potential cons of sandblasted finishes:

  • This finish is popular for outdoor features like monuments, but less so for indoor applications
  • This finishing process can alter or “soften” a stone’s natural colors and patterns

Natural Stone at Cosmos Surfaces

The look of your natural stone surfaces can be customized to perfection by applying a specific stone finish. If you have questions about natural stone surfaces and stone finishes, reach out to the experts at Cosmos.

Cosmos Surfaces is a family-owned business dedicated to providing high-quality surface materials. Browse our selection of natural stone, tiles, porcelain slabs and sinks today. 

Color of the Month: Midnight Blue

Midnight Blue is a cool, stormy shade of blue-gray with navy undertones. It is perfect for a striking accent wall in a bedroom or living room.

Oxford Blue is the Northern Lights come to life, your favorite pair of faded blue jeans personified, a sunset on the ocean. Layers of blue, white, and pink meet in this Brazilian quartzite. Creating an atmosphere of liveliness and nostalgia, Oxford Blue looks great in busy aquatic environments, such as a poolside counter or a waterfall. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

The blue-gray background and thick, crystalline bands of white resemble a wintry wood in the type of quartzite we’ve dubbed Cassini. Also known as Vogue Blue or Paramount, Cassini paints a striking scene. Cassini is a cool and boldly unique choice for any modern space, including kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

What are the Most Heat Resistant Countertops?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
most heat resistant countertops

The kitchen is a high traffic zone, and when it comes to selecting countertop materials, durability reigns supreme. Several factors determine how well a surface material will perform in the kitchen, but what are the most heat resistant countertops? Read on to see what our experts have to say.

Heat Proof vs. Heat Resistant

Before we dive in, it’s worth noting that “heat-resistant” doesn’t necessarily mean “heat-proof.” While countertops that exhibit high heat resistance are less likely to take on damage from hot pots or pans, caution remains the wisest approach. We’ll always encourage homeowners to use trivets, cooling racks, cutting boards and coasters, no matter your chosen countertop material.

Heat Resistant Countertops 

We’ve rounded up some of the most heat-resistant and gorgeous countertops on the market today. Of course, each surface material has its pros and cons. The right choice for your space will ultimately depend on a combination of characteristics. Let’s take a look. 

Granite Countertops

Granite is an all-star in the home surfacing world. This igneous rock — a rock solidified from lava or magma — is coarse-grained, highly durable and available in a wide range of colors and dramatic patterns. 

Granite performs well when exposed to heat, though trivets, cooling racks and coasters are recommended to prevent staining, scratches and discoloration. Granite typically requires annual sealing to protect the stone from staining and taking on moisture damage, but is easy to clean during/after everyday use. 

If you play host to a busy kitchen, granite is an excellent choice that holds up well to a wide range of common wear-and-tear scenarios.

Quartzite Countertops

Coming in at around 7–8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, quartzite is an incredibly durable natural stone, and this quality is reflected in its very high heat-resistance. 

Ranging in color from neutral grays and whites to warm, rich ochres and reds, quartzite stone often features dramatic veining and swirling patterns. 

It’s important not to confuse quartzite with its man-made counterpart, often simply known as “quartz”. While highly durable, quartz countertops contain natural stone components that are bound together with plastic resins. When it comes to heat-resistance, these plastic binders can melt or warp when they come into contact with extreme heat, so plenty of caution should be used. 

Quartzite counters, on the other hand, are virtually indestructible, easy to maintain and can accommodate just about any design style. Like granite, quartzite often benefits from being sealed annually.

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone countertops are softer than other natural stone countertops like quartzite and granite. While they may be more prone to taking on scratches or chipping, they are chemically inert — which means acidic substances won’t damage them — and they are highly heat-resistant. What’s more, soapstone absorbs, retains and re-radiates heat, which makes it an excellent choice for homes in cold climates. 

Soapstone is also popular for uses like fireplace surrounds, as frequent exposure to heat won’t cause it to crack. As a kitchen countertop, soapstone could handle the heat from pots and pans easily enough, though as this is a softer stone, it is more likely to get scratched or chipped by cookware, so caution is always warranted. 

Soapstone is a low maintenance material, though some homeowners prefer to oil it with mineral oil to even out and speed up its natural darkening process. Scratches and chips can be buffed out or filled in, which makes soapstone an excellent option for those who enjoy the DIY experience. If your main concern is heat-resistance, rather than hardness, soapstone can make a warm, inviting addition to your home and often works well in rustic, farmhouse-style settings. 

Stainless Steel and Aluminum Countertops 

Popular in commercial kitchens, stainless steel and aluminum countertops are easy to clean and highly heat-resistant, though they may discolor with repeated exposure to extreme heat over time. Stainless steel countertops may not visually work in most home kitchen settings, but the material’s high-heat resistance, strong durability and hygienic qualities make it a great choice for heat-resistant home kitchen sinks. 

Heat-Resistant Countertops From Cosmos Surfaces

Cosmos Surfaces brings decades of knowledge and industry experience to the table. As a 2nd generation, family-owned business, our team is passionate about connecting our customers with exceptional materials. If you have questions about heat-resistant countertops or where to find them, we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch by filling out our contact form today.

Color of the Month: Granada Red

Granada Red is a muted, warm, dark raspberry red that pairs well with chocolate browns. Its dark undertones make it the perfect color for accent walls and entranceways.

Striking red and black, Cardinal Red brings to mind the feathered plumage of the bird. In swirling waves of texture, this Brazilian quartzite has spots and layers of crystalline white and gray, giving it a uniquely high degree of variance. The deep reds and blacks of Cardinal Red complement both black and silver and looks great in kitchens. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

The type of quartzite named Malbec receives its nickname, Napa Valley, from the rich and complex colors that bring to mind the sunsets of northern California. Comprised of rolling hills of brown, red, pink, and white, transport yourself to the mountains and wine country by installing Malbec both inside and out. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Change Tile Grout Color

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
how to change tile grout color

Tile grout is the cement-like material that fills the joints between floor and wall tiles. Traditionally, tile grout was often white. In modern design styles, however, grout itself can be used creatively by incorporating a grout color that compliments or contrasts with the surrounding tiles or fixtures. In this post, our experts explain how you can change tile grout color to suit your needs — whether you want to remove stains, tint existing grout or replace tile grout with a new color. Let’s dive in.

3 Ways to Change Tile Grout Color

In some cases, we simply want to remove unsightly grout stains and restore the grout’s original color. In other cases, it’s high time for a dramatic change. The following three methods can help you achieve the perfect grout color to match your desired style:

  • Clean or remove stains from existing grout
  • Tint/recolor grout (may also be used to conceal stubborn stains)
  •  Replace grout with a new color

Read on as we explore each method.

How to Remove Stains From Grout

Whether stained by dirt and grime, kitchen spills or mold and mildew growth, grout can be cleaned with common household items. To remove stains, homeowners can try using white vinegar to clean the area, followed by a paste made by mixing water and baking soda. Use a toothbrush to scrub the paste into grout lines, then rinse with clean water.

It’s important to note that vinegar is acidic. It’s important to ensure your tiles can handle acidic substances before using this method. Tiles like marble are in danger of etching when they come into contact with acidic substances. Commercial grout cleaners are also available.

How to Change Tile Grout Color with Tinting or Recoloring

This method works for glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles, but when it comes to unsealed natural stone tiles, colorant will seep in and stain your tiles. Always check with a manufacturer to ensure your chosen method for changing tile grout color is safe for your existing tiles. 

Finding the best grout colorant for your tiles may require some trial and error. It’s worth noting that for best results, it’s easier to change grout to a darker color. If you desire a lighter color, multiple applications will likely be necessary. Some tile grout colorants may not work well on epoxy grout or won’t work on grout that has been sealed. The more you know about your existing grout, the easier it will be to find an appropriate colorant. 

Here’s what you’ll need to recolor grout lines:

  • Scrub Brush
  • Bucket
  • Sponge
  • Colorant Brush/Toothbrush
  • Tile Grout Colorant

Let’s take a look at how to recolor tile grout:

Step 1: Scrub Existing Grout Lines

Use a scrub brush and commercial grout cleaner to scrub existing grout. Then, use a sponge to wipe tiles with clear water, rinsing the cleaner from the tiles and grout lines. Allow tile and grout to dry fully — ideally overnight — before coloring.  

Step 2: Test Colorant

Find an inconspicuous area to test the colorant. Apply colorant to a few inches of grout as per the manufacturer’s instructions and allow it to dry. Once fully dried, check to ensure the colorant sets to a hard finish that doesn’t flake off with scrubbing. If it doesn’t hold up, you’ll want to test a different type of colorant.

Step 3: Tape/Mask Tiles

While this step is optional, making off tiles with painter’s tape can protect unsealed tiles from getting stained by colorant. Work in small sections, and always test a hidden area first to see if the method works. 

Step 4: Apply Colorant

Follow the manufacturer’s directions to apply grout colorant with a small brush, toothbrush or provided pen. It’s best to avoid getting colorant on tile surfaces. 

Step 5: Wipe Off Excess Colorant

Carefully wipe off any excess colorant and allow grout to dry completely. Seal if necessary.  

How to Replace Tile Grout

For extreme color changes or to fix severely stained or damaged grout lines, replacing grout is likely a better long-term solution. In this case, you’ll have to remove the existing grout and replace it with the new grout in your desired color. As grinding out existing grout can be labor-intensive, it’s a good idea to test a grout colorant or tint first to see if this solves the issue. If replacing grout is the best course of action, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Grout saw
  • Protective Gear
  • Flat-Head Screwdriver
  • Scrub Brush
  • Shop Vacuum
  • Mixing Bucket and Trowel
  • Grout Sponge
  • Drop Cloths
  • New Grout and Pigment
  • Grout Sealer

Step 1: Remove Existing Grout

Protect floors and furniture with drop cloths, then remove old grout using a manual grout saw or comparable tool. This can be a labor intensive process that produces lots of dust, so be sure to wear breathing and eye protection. Utilize a flat-head screwdriver to get into tight spaces. Check tiles to ensure they are secured to the substrate/backing. If not, tiles may need to be replaced or reattached, as replacing old, crumbling grout may not be enough to fix the problem. 

Step 2: Clean Up Grout Particles

Use a shop vac to clear out any dust, debris or loose grout particles from grout lines. 

Step 3: Prepare New Grout

Grout comes in a range of factory-mixed colors, but you can always add a desired pigment to grout to get exactly the effect you’re going for. Be sure to blend pigment and grout thoroughly to ensure uniform coloration. 

Step 4: Apply New Grout

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply new grout. This process typically involves filling the joints in between tiles, removing any excess grout and cleaning surrounding tiles. Allow grout to dry and cure fully before using the surface, then seal grout lines if necessary (some grout mixes incorporate a sealant). 

Sealant can darken grout color and give it a shiny appearance. Always test an inconspicuous area first to ensure you get the desired effect. Allow sealant to dry fully before allowing tiles to get wet.

Work With Cosmos Surfaces

Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, excellent customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of tile products and we’re always happy to answer questions and provide expert advice. Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Mercury

Mercury is a soothing mid tone gray with warm, brown undertones. Pair it with neutral blues and greens to make these colors stand out beautifully. Mercury is perfect for accent walls and main walls.

Originating in Brazil and meaning Silver Sea, Plata de Mar is a striking quartzite that is available in multiple finishes. Sail across a stormy ocean by installing Plata de Mar as a kitchen countertop, or create a cool and modern aesthetic by installing it as a bathtub foundation or bathroom flooring. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Luce Di Luna is an elegant, intricately textured type of dolomite marble. Thanks to naturally occurring, often intersecting lines in the stone, it’s easy to get lost in the pattern. Fittingly, its name translates to “light from the moon,” which perfectly describes its soft and brilliant white-gray coloring. It is commonly used for countertops, floors and interior walls.

What is the Easiest Countertop to Maintain?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

easiest countertop to maintain

The kitchen often takes center stage when it comes to everyday activities around the house. As a result, this hub of family life is particularly vulnerable to wear and tear, especially in areas like the kitchen countertops. Busy homeowners may not have much time to devote to the care and maintenance of their countertop materials. In today’s post, we’ll discuss the easiest countertop to maintain, along with our top runner-up choices.   

Man-Made vs. Natural Materials

Man-made materials like laminate or stainless steel countertops rank among the easiest countertops to maintain in the short term, as they may simply require wiping down with mild dish soap and warm water. In the long run, however, laminate countertops aren’t nearly as durable as those with natural stone components. Factoring in the cost and effort of replacing countertops more frequently, laminate countertops may not be the best choice for a long-term living situation. 

Stainless steel countertops are a great option in medical and food service settings. In the home, however, they aren’t necessarily a desirable countertop option in terms of aesthetics. Luckily, there are excellent partially man-made and all natural stone countertop options that are a breeze to maintain. 

The Most Low-Maintenance Stone Countertops 

Stone surfacing materials like marble, granite, soapstone, and quartzite make for beautiful countertops, but some materials are more low-maintenance than others. Whether you’re looking for a dazzling, dramatic accent in your kitchen, or a warm, inviting atmosphere, these particularly low-maintenance options can serve you in multiple ways. Let’s dive in and find out which option may be the easiest countertop to maintain in your home: 

  1. Engineered Quartz

Engineered quartz, sometimes simply referred to as quartz, is a man-made material that uses roughly 90–95% crushed up stone and recycled materials, including quartz crystals. The mixture is held together with about 10% of a quartz countertop’s composition consisting of resin binders. Quartz countertops can mimic the look of natural stone without requiring the maintenance associated with certain stone options, like marble. 

Quartz counters are available in a variety of patterns and colors, making it easy to match your countertops to your design style. When it comes to care and maintenance, quartz countertops can simply be wiped down using a gentle cloth and mild detergent mixed with warm water. 

In terms of durability, quartz performs impressively. These countertops are hard, scratch resistant and completely non-porous. That means they are far less susceptible to staining and harboring bacteria than porous materials. Owing to the resin binders holding them together, quartz countertops never need to be sealed. Though they are heat-resistant, extreme heat can melt or warp the plastic resins in engineered quartz. Always use cutting boards, trivets and cooling racks to protect your investment. With minimal care and maintenance, quartz countertops can elevate your space and keep your kitchen looking new and gorgeous for decades to come. Learn the ins and outs of how to clean quartz here. 

  1. Soapstone 

Naturally a non-porous material, soapstone is incredibly dense — and just like quartz — it never needs to be sealed. Homeowners can use soapstone to create a rustic, inviting look in the home, which may be enhanced by the natural patina or aged “sheen” that can form over time. Soapstone surfaces are highly stain-resistant and unaffected by heat. 

The natural darkening that occurs in soapstone can be evened out by applying mineral oil on a semi-regular basis, though this is optional and the only additional maintenance associated with soapstone. This stone’s coloration varies from white to charcoal grey, and the combination of chlorite, magnesite and dolomite can give this countertop option a milky look. 

Soapstone countertops resist bacteria and can be cleaned with a combination of soap and water. Avoid cutting directly on soapstone countertops, and use care when setting down heavy items. Knicks and scratches can often be filled in or buffed out. Take a look at the uses and benefits of soapstone here.  

  1. Granite      

Many granite options need to be sealed annually, but this is a small price to pay for the benefits of granite kitchen countertops. Granite is the most durable of these three countertop options, and with the minimal maintenance it requires, it can last for generations. 

Granite is available in a wide range of colors. It’s heat-, scratch- and stain-resistant (when properly sealed) and can add a look of sophistication to your kitchen. Countertops can be cleaned with a cloth or sponge, mild dish detergent and warm water or with a dedicated natural stone cleaner. Granite is by far one of the most popular countertop choices for busy kitchens, bridging the gap between luxury stone and ease of maintenance. You can learn more about granite here. 

For the Easiest Countertop to Maintain, Shop Cosmos Surfaces

Cosmos Surfaces has a wide selection of top-quality surface materials. Our team is always happy to answer questions and give expert advice to help you select the best materials for your home. Give us a call at your nearest location or visit us online today. 

Color of the Month: Mercury

Mercury is a soothing mid tone gray with warm, brown undertones. Pair it with neutral blues and greens to make these colors stand out beautifully. Mercury is perfect for accent walls and main walls.

Clean, beautiful, and cool – Vento Cinza is the smooth white of an undisturbed icy tundra. Upon closer look, you’ll see beautifully subtle lines of crystalline silver in this Brazilian quartzite. Vento Cinza is simple in both color and texture, but that doesn’t make it any less striking. It looks great in any space as a countertop, floor, wall, or table. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Utterly unique but still timeless, Roman Grey is a modern, porcelain take on Old World white marble. With striking veining in grey tones ranging from stone to charcoal, Roman Grey will elevate the look of your home or business without overwhelming it. Opt for bookmatched slabs to create a mesmerizing mirror effect and entrance onlookers.

Types of Countertop Materials: Pros and Cons

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
types of countertop materials

Renovating a kitchen or bathroom can feel like a huge undertaking, between designing your ideal space, coordinating with multiple contractors, and staying within your budget. Choosing surfacing materials is an essential step in the process that will have a big impact on the final look of the room. Many people aren’t sure how to choose between different types of countertop materials. Read on for a pro assessment of the different materials available to consider in your renovation.

Types of Countertop Materials: Pros and Cons    

From various natural stones to ceramic tiles, there are many options when it comes to types of countertop materials. Here is a rundown of the options, and their pros and cons for use in kitchen and bathroom countertops:

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

  • The Pros: Tile is DIY-friendly and visually versatile, with a wide range of colors, sizes, and shapes available. Tiles can add visual interest with textures and patterns, and grout color can also be used to add emphasis to colors and designs. Large format tiles can be used to create a more seamless look. Ceramic is sustainable and easy to maintain. Lastly, it tends to be an affordable option when compared to natural stone.
  • The Cons: Ceramic tiles means dealing with grout, which can pick up stains and contaminants over time. It’s important to keep up with sealing grout. In addition, while ceramic tile is quite durable, it can chip if something hard or heavy is dropped on it.

Marble

  • The Pros: Marble is great at resisting heat and cracking, which makes it ideal for kitchen countertops. It also has outstanding temperature retention qualities. It is naturally cool and soft to the touch, which is perfect for creating a bathroom or kitchen sanctuary.
  • The Cons: Marble’s softness is beneficial in many ways, but also makes it more vulnerable to etching and staining. Professional sealing on a regular basis is a must, which means maintenance can be more time-consuming than with other materials. It is also crucial to avoid acidic cleaners.

Quartz

  • The Pros: Engineered quartz is dense, scratch resistant and non-porous. Unlike with marble, there’s no need for sealing. Quartz can tolerate acidic cleaning materials and liquids like wine and citrus juice as long as they are rinsed promptly. Quartz certainly has an edge over natural stone when it comes to ease of maintenance.
  • The Cons: Quartz is less heat-resistant than stones like marble, so it’s necessary to use trivets and avoid setting down hot materials. It can also be vulnerable to warping with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight – something to think about when considering where countertops will be placed in the room.

Granite

  • The Pros: Granite is extremely durable and can stand up to heat and high traffic. Its extreme hardness makes it easy to prevent scratches and cracks. Like other natural stones, granite comes in a stunning array of natural colors and patterns.
  • The Cons: Many types of granite require regular sealing, and granite does require daily and weekly cleaning to maintain a pristine appearance, optimal performance and longevity. It can also feel a bit too hard for some homeowners.

Soapstone

  • The Pros: Soapstone is highly heat resistant and can retain heat, which can be very pleasant in a bathroom. It is resistant to acids due to the talc in its makeup, so it’s also a good choice for kitchens where acidic substances may be spilled. Lastly, it is extremely dense and repels water, so it won’t harbor bacteria and doesn’t need to be sealed.
  • The Cons: Soapstone is a softer natural stone, so it can be vulnerable to chipping and gouges from everyday use. It also looks best when oiled with a thin layer of mineral oil, so it isn’t totally maintenance free.

Onyx

  • The Pros: Onyx is quite rare as a countertop material compared to other natural stones, so it can lend one-of-a-kind beauty to a design. It can last upwards of 100 years with proper maintenance.
  • Onyx is more brittle and fragile than other natural stones, and can be scratched and scraped more easily. This means it isn’t likely to hold up well as a high-traffic countertop material.

Quartzite

  • The Pros: Quartzite is a natural stone that is twice as hard as glass and harder than the blade of a knife. It’s also heat resistant, making it perfect for high-traffic countertop areas. A mild detergent and soft cloth will do the trick when it comes to cleaning this durable material.
  • The Cons: Quartzite is not indestructible, and regular sealing is needed. Spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible, and trivets should be used under hot objects like pots and pans. 

Work with Cosmos!

If you have any questions about selecting countertop materials for your bathroom remodel, reach out to Cosmos today! We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our pro team is always happy to help.

Color of the Month: Dresden

Dresden is a soothing, muted orchid blue with violet undertones. It is a stunning option to pair with floral artwork, and works well in any room.

Reminiscent of clouds on a summer day, Blue Sky is a soothing blue marble from Brazil. Veins of gray and white are dispersed against a backdrop of varying blues, which brings soothing and comforting sophistication to any it is used in.

A beautiful silvery blue curtain makes up the background of the Brazilian marble known as Australis. The feature that sets Australis apart from other marbles is the deep sapphire streaks that glitter throughout. Australis makes for beautiful countertops and backsplashes, as well as bathroom floors, vanities, and walls.

Wood Vs. Stone Vs. Porcelain Tiles in Commercial Settings

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
stone vs porcelain tiles

Commercial settings sport flooring materials ranging from natural wood and stone to man-made options like porcelain, concrete and laminates. Business owners have a unique set of concerns that factor into every decision when it comes to preparing a space for public use. In today’s post, we compare wood vs. stone vs. porcelain tiles to see how they compare.

Choosing Tiles For Commercial Spaces

Business owners are responsible for creating and managing spaces that are visually appealing, safe to use and easy to keep clean. When it comes to selecting tiles for flooring, the following factors are paramount:

  • Aesthetics—tiles should compliment the visual tone of the space, whether the setting is natural and rich or elegant and luxurious.
  • Safety—slip-and-fall concerns are often at the forefront of any business owner’s mind. That means tile textures should be considered, especially in wet areas like pool surrounds or bathrooms. 
  • Maintenance—due to the high-traffic nature of commercial spaces, ease of maintenance plays a major role in the ability to keep a space looking clean, new and trustworthy. Depending on the setting, business owners will likely want to opt for durable, scratch resistant surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain over time. 

Stone Tiles in Commercial Spaces 

Natural stone tiles are an excellent option for any commercial space. That’s because they are gorgeous, durable and often easy to clean and maintain. If that doesn’t check off enough boxes on the list of desirable traits, natural stone flooring is available in a wide range of colors, textures and patterns. That means stone floors can be designed to match and elevate just about any interior design aesthetic. Let’s look at the key traits of natural stone and why you might want to consider it for your commercial space:

  • Durability—natural stone is one of the most durable materials you can select. This is important in high-traffic areas where scratches, scuff marks and general signs of wear and tear are a concern. Hardy stones like granite will look great and last much longer than more vulnerable alternatives, making it a worthy investment in the long run.
  • Water-Resistance—in areas where tiles are prone to get wet, business owners will want to compare stone tiles to see how they handle water. Marble, for example, is a calcareous stone, which means its porosity can make it vulnerable to taking on stains and water damage. To combat this, most natural stones need to be sealed every six months to annually, depending on the type of stone. 
  • Aesthetics—natural stone can help tie together a design style, matching colors or creating interesting contrasts in texture or patterns. A dramatic accent wall or unique floor can elevate your business, creating an experience for anyone that enters your building.
  • Safety—textured natural stones create gorgeous non-slip surfaces. This trait is especially useful in areas like restrooms. Marble is the most slippery natural stone tile, while honed granite and slate are less so. 

Porcelain Tiles in Commercial Spaces      

Porcelain tiles are a budget-friendly, man-made alternative to natural stone. Let’s see how they stack up: 

  • Durability—while not quite as hard and durable as natural stone, porcelain tiles are more durable than their ceramic relatives or vinyl options. Porcelain is also easy to clean and maintain and offers good water-resistance.  
  • Affordability—porcelain tiles provide a desirable middle-ground option for those who can’t afford natural stone, but still want materials that are a step above vinyl flooring.
  • Versatility—porcelain tiles can be manufactured in a wide range of colors—natural or not—and it can be designed to mimic the look of natural stones like marble or the warm, inviting look of wood grain.   

When deciding between natural stone and porcelain tiles, the key differences are price, durability and design style. 

Wood Flooring in Commercial Spaces

Wooden features work well in settings with a warm, rustic aesthetic. When it comes to flooring in commercial settings, however, wood can be difficult to maintain and properly clean. The wear and tear of high-traffic areas means wood flooring is more likely to take on staining and damage. For the look of wood without the headaches, it might be best to opt for a wood grain-style porcelain tile. In settings where a natural, rustic look is desirable, one can try pairing other wooden features like furniture or plants with dark, natural stone flooring like granite or slate.

Shop Natural Stone and Porcelain Tiles at Cosmos! 

If you have questions about commercial surface material options, reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We offer a wide selection of natural stone and porcelain. Our team of experts is always happy to answer questions and make the best recommendations based on your needs and budget.

Color of the Month: Juniper Berry

Juniper Berry is a deep billiard green with azure undertones. Pair with touches of gold and off-white for a traditional theme in any kind of room.

On Kamarica granite, sea foam green, rust orange, soft ivory and space gray swirl and twirl with one another to produce magical shapes. Bold yet sophisticated, this exotic, naturally occurring Brazilian stone is an awe-inspiring choice that works well for countertops, backsplashes, window sills, walls and many other interior design projects.

A gorgeous gathering of greens from forest to seafoam, Verde Karzai green quartzite is the perfect material for bringing an earthy accent to your space. One of the perks of quartzite is the naturally occurring collage of colors and crystalline minerals. Verde Karzai green quartzite has that beautiful natural variation plus a pop of color.

A Guide to Glazed Vs. Unglazed Tile

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
glazed vs unglazed tile

There are plenty of decisions to make when shopping for the tile of your dreams—from colors and patterns to size, shape and finish. In today’s post, our experts discuss glazed vs unglazed tile. Read on to learn more about what they are and why you might want to choose one over the other.  

What Are Glazed Tiles?

There is a common misconception that glazed tiles are always glossy. Rather than referring to the finished look on tiles, the term “glazed” refers to the material tiles are coated with–typically a liquid glass or enamel. Glazed tiles can have either a glossy or a matte finish, so it’s important to remember just because a tile isn’t glossy, that doesn’t mean it’s unglazed.

What Are Unglazed Tiles?

Clay tiles, such as porcelain or ceramic tiles, are placed in a kiln for firing. If the tiles are to be glazed, the glaze coating must be applied before tiles are fired. This process infuses the glaze into the top layer of the tile. When tiles are fired without a coating of glaze, they are known as unglazed tiles.

The Benefits of Glazed Tiles

All surface materials have their own unique qualities that can guide your decision-making on the quest for the perfect match. Glazed tiles have the following benefits:

  • Color Fast—the finish on glazed tiles protects colors and patterns from fading over time, despite exposure to elements like direct sunlight.
  • Easy to Clean—glazed tiles provide a non-porous, smooth surface that’s easy to wipe down with warm, soapy water and a soft microfiber cloth. 
  • Wide Variety—glazed tiles are available in a wide range of colors, patterns and designs, while unglazed tiles typically have a more natural, earthy look to them.
  • Stain-Resistant—owing to their non-porosity, glazed tiles are highly resistant to absorbing or taking on stains. 
  • Scratch Resistant—inherently protected by their coating, glazed tiles are scratch resistant and therefore perform well in high-traffic areas.
  • Thinner/Less Dense—glazed tiles are thinner than unglazed tiles, which can help create a more subtle, elegant look, though it also means glazed tiles could be more fragile than unglazed tiles (light glazes are typically harder than dark glazes).

The Best Applications for Glazed Tiles

Glazed tiles are versatile and durable. This tile option is well-suited to the following applications:

  • Kitchen Backsplash—since glazed tiles are typically smooth and easy to clean, they are an excellent option for areas that need to be cleaned often, such as backsplash.
  • Walling—owing to a wide variety of colors, patterns and flexibility between high-sheen and matte finishes, glazed tiles can match any design aesthetic.
  • Indoor Flooring—glazed tiles can help create gorgeous, elegant indoor flooring in both residential and commercial spaces. The coating on glazed tiles makes them somewhat slip-resistant, though not quite as non-slip as unglazed tiles. 

The Benefits of Unglazed Tiles

Depending on the area you are looking to tile and the design aesthetic you’re going for, unglazed tiles just might be the perfect material to get you there. Unglazed tiles have the following benefits:

  • Slip-Resistant Surface—unglazed tiles provide a non-slip surface, which is beneficial in commercial spaces, outdoor areas and wet or commonly slippery areas, like around swimming pools. 
  • Natural Look—the more natural surface appearance of unglazed tiles make them a great fit for outdoor spaces or areas with a laid back, natural or rustic design aesthetic.
  • Thickness/Density—unglazed tiles are typically thicker/more dense than glazed tiles, which also makes them durable. 
  • Can Be Sealed—unglazed tiles are more vulnerable to absorbing stains and moisture, but a sealant can be applied after installation to make them non-porous, thus protecting them from stains and moisture damage. 

Best Applications For Unglazed Tiles

Though not as widely available as glazed tiles, unglazed tiles have a unique set of properties that make them a great choice for the following applications:

  • Outdoor Spaces—unglazed tiles tend to be thicker and more dense, which makes them a good choice for outdoor spaces that require durability, like a garden patio.
  • Slippery Areas—the textured finish of unglazed tiles make them highly slip-resistant, which means they provide a safety benefit in areas that become slippery, such as pool surrounds, laundry rooms and commercial spaces. It’s important to note that unglazed tiles will need to be sealed in order to be protected from staining and moisture damage.
  • Natural Design Aesthetic—if you’re going for a natural look in your home or commercial space, unglazed tiles can help create that warm, earthy atmosphere. They also make a great choice for outdoor areas that transition into a garden.  

Need Help Choosing Between Glazed Vs. Unglazed Tile? Work with Cosmos Surfaces

To learn more about tiles and tiling, check our guide to DIY tiling here, or take a look at our blog post on Tile Laying Patterns.

If you have questions about tiling or other surface materials, get in touch with Cosmos! We offer a wide selection of products, and our blog provides information on materials, cleaning, maintenance and design tips!

Color of the Month: Molasses

Molasses is a rich brown sugar color reminiscent of gingerbread, perfect for accent walls. Pair it with earthy natural stone or wood for dark honeyed tones.

Kona Dragon is a fierce brown quartz, reminiscent of a vast and wild desert landscape. With flecks of black, gold, and amber adorning shades of assertive brown, Kona Dragon commands respect and admiration from all who attempt to tame it. Once captured and incorporated in an exceptional design, this quartz never loses its vigor.

Cafe Forest Brown marble is like gazing into the depths of your artisan mocha, swirling with rich espresso, cream, and dark chocolate. It’s a truly delicious sight, one that will invigorate you each and every day. Cafe Forest Brown is ideal for exterior or interior use, irresistible in countertops, mosaics, floors, and walls.

Your Guide to DIY Tiling

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
diy tiling

There’s great joy to be found in tackling home improvement projects yourself. Going the DIY route doesn’t only help you save big on costs, it can be an incredibly satisfying experience. That is, if you know what you’re doing. A little research upfront can ensure that things go smoothly and helps you avoid a multitude of headaches and frustrations. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to DIY tiling to help you succeed at elevating your space with gorgeous new tiling. 

Installing Tile at Home  

Here at Cosmos, we’ll always point out when homeowners should call in professional help with installations. Luckily, with a little patience and know-how, laying tile yourself is a project most homeowners can take on with confidence.

If you’re on the hunt for beautiful, high-quality tiles, Cosmos Surfaces offers a wide range of colors and patterns that work for any design style.  

DIY Tile Laying: What You’ll Need  

There are several methods for laying tile in your home. Before you start, it’s always a good idea to check with your tile manufacturer to ensure your chosen installation method is appropriate. It’s important to note that installing tile floors takes at least several days to complete as mortar and grout need time to dry. You won’t be able to walk on your new floor immediately, so be sure to plan accordingly. Once you’ve chosen tiles for your home, you’ll want to stock up on a few tile laying essentials. The following items will help you become DIY tiling pro in no time:

  • Tile membrane (optional)
  • Waterproofing tape (to waterproof tile membrane seams)
  • Utility knife
  • Trowel
  • Thinset mortar
  • Enough tile to cover the area (and some extra)
  • Grout
  • Tile cutter (for simple cuts), tile nipper (for cutting curves) and/or tile hole saw (for cutting holes)
  • Chalk reel
  • Tile spacers
  • Wet sponge
  • Long level
  • Rubber mallet

To remove existing flooring, chisel out the old tile, use a floor scraper to remove old mortar and fill in any uneven spots with leveling compound. Once you have a clean, flat surface, you’re ready to install your new tiles.

How to Install New Tile Floors 

The following is one of several methods to install tile floors at home:

  1. Install a Tile Membrane

The substrate—or surface your tiles are installed on—is an important consideration when tiling. Surfaces that expand or contract with humidity fluctuations can place stress on your tiles, causing cracks. Installing an uncoupling tile membrane as a substrate can lessen this tension and create a waterproof barrier. Using a utility knife, cut the tile membrane to size. Next, spread thinset mortar on the subfloor with the smooth side of your trowel before combing it with the notched side. Work one section at a time so that mortar doesn’t dry before you can install the membrane. Roll the membrane out and press it into the thinset mortar (you can use a wooden float for this). Repeat the process one section at a time and finish by sealing membrane seams, along with where the membrane meets the wall, with waterproof tape.

  1. Create Reference Lines and Dry Fit Tiles  

Measure the center points of opposing walls and snap a chalk line between the two. Repeat with remaining walls to create a central starting point for laying out your tile laying pattern. Snap chalk lines for reference as necessary for your tile pattern. Check your layout by dry fitting tiles with tile spacers to ensure you leave correct expansion gaps. Allow ¼-inch of space along the outer edges of your tiles. If you end with small sections of tile on one end, you can shift the layout, just remember to mark new reference lines. 

  1. Prepare and Spread Mortar 

Mix thinset mortar to a peanut butter consistency. Starting at the centerpoint, spread mortar evenly, then comb at a 45-degree angle with the notched side of your trowel. Work one section at a time to prevent mortar from drying.

  1. Start Laying Down Tiles

Begin laying down tiles along the reference line you created in the center of the room, placing tile spacers between each tile. Ensure tiles make proper contact with the mortar as you go along, applying mortar to the back of tiles whenever necessary. 

  1. Ensure Tiles Are Level

Wipe excess mortar from tiles with a wet sponge as you work and use a long level to check for evenness. Gently tamp down any high spots with a rubber mallet. Cut tile as needed as you approach edges, and don’t forget to leave a ¼-inch gap at the edges and around any plumbing.

  1. Allow Mortar to Dry

Once you’ve finished laying down tile, allow 24 hours for the mortar to set before applying grout.

  1. Apply Grout

Remove spacers from between tiles, then apply your choice of grout color to the joints by pressing it in with a rubber float, then pulling grout diagonally across tiles to remove the excess. After roughly 30 minutes, wipe grout lines  and clean tiles with a wet sponge. Allow up to 72 hours for grout to set before walking on your newly tiled floor (check the manufacturer’s instructions for setting times). Apply a silicone sealant to expansion gaps at floor edges. After 3 weeks, you can seal your grout to protect it.   

Work with Cosmos Surfaces

We hope you’ve found this guide to DIY tiling helpful. Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, excellent customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of tile products and we’re always happy to answer questions and provide expert advice. Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Saffron

Saffron is a radiant gold with bright and deep undertones. It is perfect for adding sunny color to the walls in any living space. Pair with deep toned antiques or clean black and white.

A sun-soaked desert, Solarius creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in any room. Diverse and multicolored, gold, white, and black make up this exotic Brazilian granite. The variety in Solarius makes it perfectly versatile for any space, both interior and exterior. Use Solarius for bathrooms, kitchens, entryways, or outdoor patios.

A sheet of gold, it’s no surprise how Golden Paradise got its name. But it’s not just gold – look deeper to see the crystals of whites and grays that make up this Brazilian quartzite. Highly translucent, Golden Paradise makes for spectacular floors, walls, and fireplaces and matches well with blacks and woods. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Choose Grout Color

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
how to choose grout color

When we think of tiling as a design element, it’s easy to forget about the grout between those tiles. Grout can play a major role in accentuating or concealing your tile layout, making it a powerful tool in your design arsenal. In today’s post, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces discuss how to choose grout color.

Grout Lines: What to Consider

Whether you want to emphasize grout lines or minimize their appearance, there are several considerations to help you choose the best grout for the job. Let’s dive in:

Tile and Grout Location

Consider the location of your tile layout and how visible grout lines will be. Wall tiles and kitchen backsplash are well within the line of sight, which means designs in these areas will be highly visible. This opens up possibilities to create visual center pieces or pops of color with your tile and grout combinations. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with a large surface area, bold color choices can quickly become overwhelming. Decide whether you want a subdued look or an eye-catching accent area, then consider which tile and grout color combinations will help you accomplish your design goals.

The Size of a Tiled Area

The size of the area you plan to tile can help guide your grout color choices. Small spaces can become accent areas where contrasting grout and tile colors will add visual complexity. Conversely, matching tile and grout colors will help create a continuous effect, giving the space a larger appearance. 

Tile Design Layout

As mentioned above, grout color can go a long way toward accentuating or blending in with your tile design layout. Let’s look at a few different ways grout color can influence tile layout design.

  • Matching Grout and Tile Color—this option helps hide grout lines, creating a continuous, serene look. Matching colors work well in minimalist spaces. 
  • Contrasting Grout and Tile Color—use a grout color that contrasts with your tile to add visual complexity and accentuate your tile layout or grid pattern. This option works especially well with simple, geometric patterns, such as using black grout with white tiles in a classic brick layout.
  • Neutral Grout Colors—for a less bold appearance, you can get the best of both worlds by pairing your tile with a neutral grout color, like grey. 

Patterned and Multi-Color Tile 

When your tiles themselves have patterns on them, or if you’re making use of a multi-colored tile layout, bold grout colors can quickly become overwhelming. Here are a few tips for these scenarios:

  • Use thinner grout lines with patterned tiles (as deemed appropriate by the manufacturer). 
  • Use a neutral-colored grout to let the tile pattern take center stage.
  • For multi-colored tiles, try matching the grout to one of the tile colors for a cohesive look. You might want to start with the most neutral color until you find one that works.
  • For tiles with a stone-like appearance, such as veining, you can match grout to either the base tile color, or to the primary veining color. 

Match Grout to the Room

Aside from complementing your tile color, grout can pull tones from nearby design elements or appliances. For instance, grey or white grout can match with stainless steel or white fixtures in the kitchen, while grout with red or brown tones can coordinate with wood, brick or stone elements. The overall effect can help create a cohesive color story.

The Shape of Tiles and Grout

The shape of your tiles and the layout you choose can affect the amount of grout you’ll need to use. Square or rectangular tiles, for example, will likely require less grout than more decorative tile shapes, such as penny round tile. Tiles that require more grout means grout lines will be more noticeable. If you want to keep the focus on the tiles themselves, it’s important to match tile and grout colors as closely as possible. 

Tile and Grout: A Perfect Match

As discussed earlier, a close color match can help create a seamless, continuous effect. This can make a small space appear larger, or it can allow other design elements in the room to take the spotlight. If you still want your individual tiles to stand out, you can always opt for a textured tile while maintaining a monochromatic color scheme.  

Fun with Grout Lines

Neutral tiles can be paired with brightly colored grout for a unique, fun look. This approach works well when the grout color matches with another element, such as a paint color or a distinct color scheme in the room. Unique grout options include translucent grout, which won’t interfere with your tile design, and glitter grout—a playful option that will make your interior sparkle.

Check out our blog for more information on sealing and maintaining grout.

Work with Cosmos Surfaces

Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, excellent customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of tile products and we’re always happy to answer questions and provide expert advice. Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Pacific Pearl

Pacific Pearl is a soothing oyster white with a hint of sea-green undertone. It is perfect for sunny rooms, main walls, and pairing as a trim with any color scheme.

Silver Lightning is a versatile type of granite that looks great among stainless steel and black cabinets. A flashy streak of silver cutting through a mellow gray sky, silver lightning is simultaneously calm and striking. The subtle crystalline texture and honed finish of silver lightning make this a perfect installation for kitchen countertops, floors, and bathroom vanities.

What is the Best Material for a Kitchen Backsplash?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
best material for kitchen backsplash

A kitchen backsplash adds texture and color to your home, but it’s a highly functional part of your kitchen too. As the name suggests, a backsplash is there to protect your walls from food spills and splashes, like sauce or oil. With so many backsplash material options on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for your home. In today’s post, the experts at Cosmos discuss the best material for kitchen backsplash to help you decide. 

Kitchen Backsplash: Functional Aesthetics

An eye-catching backsplash can set your home apart. A backsplash can be used to create a gorgeous focal point in your kitchen, and the options for tile patterns are nearly endless. A well-chosen backsplash should complement and coordinate with existing permanent features in the home. With careful selection and a little bit of planning, beautiful backsplash tile can tie the room together and add value to your home. 

It’s not all about aesthetics, though. The best material for kitchen backsplash tile depends on your needs, lifestyle and budget. If you love to cook and entertain, you’ll want to select a material that’s easy to clean and maintain. If you rarely cook but want your kitchen to make an impact, you might opt for aesthetics over function. Either way, the options are good and plenty. Let’s take a look:

Ceramic/Porcelain Tiles

Ceramic tiles are the most widely used backsplash material—and for good reason. They’re resilient, inexpensive and easy to maintain. Since ceramic is a manmade material, tiles come in a wide array of sizes and colors, including those not found in nature.

Ceramic tiles make it easy to coordinate various features in your kitchen. As an example, larger tiles with the same color or pattern can be used for kitchen flooring. Ceramic is also incredibly heat- and stain-resistant, which makes it perfect around areas like stovetops. Cleaning glazed ceramic or porcelain backsplash is as simple as wiping off spills and splashes.

Natural Stone Backsplash

Natural stone adds a timeless beauty that can’t be argued with. Installing natural stone features in your home will increase its value and elevate its design. Backsplashes can be matched with natural stone countertops or tiles to create a cohesive look. When it comes to natural stone backsplashes, most stones need to be sealed frequently to avoid absorbing stains. Before you decide on a natural stone kitchen backsplash, it’s important to know their features:

  • Granite—you can’t go wrong with the beauty of granite. With a wide range of colors and patterns available, you’ll have plenty of options to help create your desired look. Granite is one of the most durable stones out there, and its resistance to heat and scratching makes it perfect for a high traffic area like the kitchen. With frequent cleaning, sealing and occasional polishing, granite backsplash can last for a lifetime. 
  • Marble—marble is softer than both ceramic tiles and granite. Since it’s an inherently porous stone, sealing marble frequently is paramount.  If you’re focused on bringing aesthetic beauty into your kitchen and you don’t cook frequently, marble might be right for you. Even though it requires a bit more TLC than some of its natural stone counterparts, marble is an investment that can be well worth the effort. 
  • Quartzite—quartzite (not to be confused with quartz), is one of the hardest, most durable stones on the market. This stone offers a wide range of colors and patterns and will need to be resealed about twice a year in an active kitchen.
  • Soapstone—soapstone is one of the softer types of stone you can use for kitchen backsplash. Available in a range of dark green and grey tones, soapstone tends to darken over time. You can treat the soapstone with mineral oil to darken it yourself and keep it looking fresh. While soapstone does take on scratches, these can be sanded or buffed out. Soapstone is impervious to chemical reactions with acids, which makes it easy to clean and maintain. 

Quartz as Backsplash

Quartz is a man made material composed of quartz pieces and materials like glass or other crushed up industrial materials. These components are held together with plastic binders like resin. Quartz comes in many different colors and patterns, and it never needs to be sealed. It’s important to note that grout in between tiles still requires sealing. 

Quartz is durable and easy to clean but doesn’t hold up to excessive heat or direct sunlight. The resin binding that holds quartz surfaces together can melt or warp when exposed to heat, so your kitchen setup will likely determine whether quartz is a good option for you. Likewise, some cleaners might be safe to use on quartz stone itself but could damage or etch resin binders. 

It’s always wise to research cleaning products and check with manufacturers to ensure a product is safe to use on your surfaces. 

Need the Best Material for Kitchen Backsplash? Work with Cosmos Surfaces!

If you have questions about the best material for kitchen backsplash in your home, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today with questions, comments and concerns. Cosmos proudly offers a wide selection of products and our blog provides information on materials, maintenance and design tips.

Color of the Month: Vanilla

Vanilla is a neutral, soft-toned white with honey undertones, perfect for a main wall or any room of your choice. Pair with white accents or softer sand-toned colors, or pops of floral inspired reds, teals, and corals.

This Brazilian quartzite dubbed Calacatta Silk boasts dynamic charcoal veining over its soft gray background. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor surfaces, this versatile white quartzite is a perfect choice to add an element of endless elegance to your space. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Pros and Cons of Ceramic Tile Countertops

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
ceramic tile countertops

When it comes to selecting countertop materials for your home, there are plenty of great options on the market, ranging from natural stone to man-made. Ceramic tile countertops are durable, versatile and affordable, but are they right for you? In this post, the experts at Cosmos discuss the pros and cons of ceramic tile counters to help you decide.

What is Ceramic? 

Ceramic tiles typically consist of a water, sand and clay mixture. The mixture is pressed, sometimes glazed and then fired in a kiln at extremely high temperatures. The grout used to lay tile is usually a mixture of water, sand and a cement-like material. While you’re probably familiar with ceramic tiles being used for flooring, in bathrooms and as kitchen backsplash, they also make a great option as a countertop surface material.

The Pros of Ceramic Tile Countertops

Versatile and sustainable, ceramic tiles have a lot to offer. Let’s look at the pros of installing ceramic tile countertops in your home:

  • DIY-Friendly—ceramic tile countertops can be installed by a handy DIY-enthusiast, though the job requires precise measuring, cutting and the proper tools. 
  • Versatility—ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of shapes, colors and sizes, which makes it easy to get exactly what you want. It’s also easy to switch to a smaller tile size if you’re interested in creating a matching backsplash or incorporating intricate patterns. 
  • Visual Interest—tiles can effectively add elements of texture and patterns to your space to create depth and visual interest. Contrasting grout colors can be used to emphasize geometric patterns created by tiles, while tile laying patterns provide nearly endless combinations.
  • Heat-Resistant—ceramic tiles are highly heat-resistant, which makes them a great option to install around areas like the stove.
  • Affordable—ceramic tile countertops offer an affordable way to elevate your kitchen design.
  • Large-Format Tiles/Slabs—new technologies have introduced large-format tiles and porcelain slabs, which require less grout and make it possible to achieve a more “seamless” look.
  • Sustainability—ceramic tiles are often made of completely natural materials, which means they’re a highly sustainable option you can feel good about incorporating into your home. As a bonus, these properties also make them easy to recycle when you’re done.
  • Easy to Maintain—ceramic tiles are resistant to stains, acids, dirt, scratches and common household chemicals, which makes maintaining them easy and straight-forward. 

For an in-depth look at ceramic tiles, check out this overview of ceramic tile properties. 

The Cons of Ceramic Tile Countertops

You’d be hard-pressed to find a material that didn’t have a few cons to its name. Alas, it’s time to discuss the drawbacks of installing ceramic tile countertops:

  • While ceramic tiles are easier to install yourself, they do require precise measurements, accurate cuts and lots of patience. You’ll also need to invest in the proper tools, especially for grout work.
  • More often than not, installing ceramic tiles means you’ll deal with grout lines. Dirt, food and other contaminants can get stuck in grout lines and build up over time. This can, however, be avoided with diligent cleaning and regular maintenance. 
  • Staining agents like coffee, wine or juice can stain grout in between tiles. It’s important to keep up with sealing grout, as it tends to be a porous material, which makes it vulnerable to staining. 
  • While it is a durable material, ceramic tile can chip if something hard and/or heavy strikes it. 
  • Not all ceramic tiles are suitable for use as countertop materials. It’s always a good idea to check in with a manufacturer to ensure a material is suitable for its intended use. 

Conclusion

Ceramic tiles offer an affordable way to add gorgeous colors and patterns to your home. With such a wide variety of colors and size options available, you can truly customize your kitchen and create a unique design that sets your home apart. If you have questions or concerns about installing ceramic tile countertops, we’d love to hear from you!

Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing expert knowledge, meaningful customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of products and resources to assist our customers. Contact us today to get started! 

Color of the Month: Vanilla

Vanilla is a neutral, soft-toned white with honey undertones, perfect for a main wall or any room of your choice. Pair with white accents or softer sand-toned colors, or pops of floral inspired reds, teals, and corals.

Drift away with Shadow Storm, a super white marble featuring delicate swirls and eddies of shadowy grey. White marble is the epitome of classic grace and luxury, and Shadow Storm is a prime example – beautiful as a countertop, backsplash, fountain, or as the floor of your grand entranceway. It makes an exceptional impression.

What is the Best Stone for a Patio?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
Beautiful Outdoor Living Space with Fire Place and BBQ Grill/ Outdoor Kitchen

As the days lengthen and the cold weather subsides, now is the perfect time to give those outdoor areas some extra thought and attention. In today’s post, we discuss the best stone for a patio, along with a few pro tips for creating gorgeous, functional spaces you and your loved ones can enjoy for decades to come.

What is the Best Stone for a Patio?

Our top picks for outdoor patio and kitchen areas include granite, quartzite, and porcelain.

  • Granite is durable and heat resistant, and can be used both indoors and outdoors to create a seamless, unified look. Granite can be cut in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be treated to make different textures. It’s low maintenance and environmentally friendly as well. One possible downside of granite is that it is porous by nature, and should be sealed to avoid possible staining and moisture damage.
  • Quartzite is also extremely durable and great for indoor and outdoor applications. It is non-porous, not slippery, and harder than granite. However, it can be a bit more costly than granite, depending on your patio design and other factors.
  • Porcelain is also colorfast, weather-resistant, and low maintenance. Porcelain that is rated for flooring and not glossy is a great choice for a patio surface. This is especially true for those looking to mimic the look of marble outdoors, where calcareous stones (like marble) might not perform as well. 

Designing Outdoor Areas

After a long, harsh winter spent indoors, it’s easy to see what a valuable asset an outdoor space can be. Whether your goal is to create a safe way to spend time with family and friends this summer, enjoy your own downtime outside or if you just love to entertain in general, a well-designed, functional outdoor area adds value to your home. Before you design your outdoor patio, which might include an outdoor kitchen, firepit, grill surrounds or pizza oven, it’s important to consider the following:

  • Function: The purpose of a space and how it will be used can help you narrow down material options. An area surrounding a pool or jacuzzi, for example, would likely benefit from a stone or material with a non-slip, textured finish. If you’re installing outdoor kitchen countertops, you’ll want to choose a non-porous, durable stone, like honed granite. 
  • Weather: While some materials hold up better against the elements than others, it’s always wise to minimize a stone’s exposure to harsh weather, perhaps by placing your patio in a shaded, somewhat sheltered area. 
  • Location: If you’re looking to design an outdoor kitchen or food prep area, location is key. You’ll likely need to move food and supplies back and forth from your indoor kitchen, so it’s wise to keep your layout convenient and accessible. 
  • Aesthetics: Stones that can be used both indoors and outdoors enable you to create a continuous, unified effect by extending the same materials used inside your home into your garden. 
  • Lifespan: Durable natural stones like granite and quartzite make for excellent long-term investments and add to the value of your home.

Tips for Using Natural Stone Outdoors

When it’s time to choose a stone for your outdoor project, the following tips can be useful:

  • For outdoor countertops, thicker slabs (around 3cm) can be used to help ensure long-term durability. More substantial-looking surfaces are also more likely to fit in with an outdoor aesthetic. 
  • Darker stones will get hot in the sun, which can be uncomfortable to walk on with bare feet and/or work around. 
  • Dense, non-porous stones like quartzite will perform better outdoors than porous stones like marble.
  • Be sure to use a penetrating sealer on natural stone patios to help prevent stains and moisture damage. Proper sealing also makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze, enabling you to wipe off any offending substances. Our blog post on sealing natural stone covers this topic in depth. 

Outdoor Uses for Natural Stone

Natural stone comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors, making it versatile, functional and beautiful. Let’s look at just a few other outdoor applications where natural stone can be used effectively:

  • Garden walls
  • Walkways
  • Seat walls
  • Firepits
  • Pizza oven/Grill surrounds
  • Outdoor kitchen countertops/islands

Conclusion

Natural stone offers a sustainable, long-term investment into your home and its overall value. When it comes to designing your outdoor patio and garden areas, planning ahead can save you time, money and headaches down the road. Consider working with a professional landscaper or outdoor architect to get the most out of your outdoor oasis. Lastly, getting in touch with a professional stone fabricator can help you find the best materials suited to your needs, climate and budget.

Work with Cosmos!

Whether you’re interested in granite, marble, quartzite, schist, onyx or soap stone, quartz, porcelain, tile for your home, Cosmos Surfaces offers a wide range of surfacing options to satisfy any design style. 

Cosmos brings decades of knowledge and industry experience to the table. As a 2nd generation, family-owned business, our team is passionate about connecting North American businesses and consumers to exceptional materials in a way that is respectful to local communities and the environment. Get in touch by filling out our contact form today!

Color of the Month: Vanilla

Vanilla is a neutral, soft-toned white with honey undertones, perfect for a main wall or any room of your choice. Pair with white accents or softer sand-toned colors, or pops of floral inspired reds, teals, and corals.

Maori granite has a pattern that’s reminiscent of drawings on a chalkboard, with thin-to-wide, grayish-white lines intersecting on top of a stark black base. A striking and stylish stone, Maori is a suitable selection for anyone seeking an adventurously decorated granite countertop that will continue making a statement for years to come.

Porcelain Vs. Quartz in the Kitchen

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM
porcelain vs quartz

Kitchens are some of the most high-traffic areas in our homes, and they’re often highly visible as well. This makes selecting surface materials well suited to our kitchens all the more important. Durability, ease of maintenance and aesthetic beauty all factor into the decision, but when several materials on the market fit these descriptions, which is best for you? In this post, the experts at Cosmos discuss porcelain vs quartz to see how each one stacks up in the kitchen.

What is Porcelain?

Porcelain is a kind of ceramic made by heating materials in a kiln at high temperatures. While the composition of porcelain can vary, kaolinite—a clay mineral—is often an essential component. Kaolinite is a silicate which lends porcelain its plasticity. Petunse, also known as pottery stone, is another traditional component which affords porcelain its translucency and hardness.

Properties & Best Uses of Porcelain

Porcelain has properties of hardness, durability, heat-resistance and color fastness. While porcelain can be used for kitchen countertops, there are some drawbacks, including a lack of depth in surface patterns. This means that if a porcelain countertop gets scratched, it will interrupt/damage the pattern and reveal that it only runs surface deep. Porcelain countertops also tend to be quite thin when compared to more substantial-looking slabs of materials like granite, marble or quartz. 

Where porcelain really shines is in the form of tiles used for walls and flooring. Porcelain tiles boast the following properties:

  • Easy to clean—porcelain tiles can be cleaned with common household cleaners and don’t need to be buffed or polished to maintain their finish. 
  • Color Fast—the colors in ceramic tiles—like porcelain—do not fade with age and aren’t vulnerable to fading from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. 
  • Slip Resistant—the traction found in porcelain is useful when it comes to flooring, especially in areas prone to spills and foot traffic.
  • Aesthetics—porcelain comes in a variety of colors and it can even mimic the look of natural stone, like in the case of porcelain slabs that look like marble.

What is Quartz?

While quartz surfaces do contain quartz minerals, it is essentially a man made surface material. Quartz countertops are composed of pulverized natural stones, industrial waste like glass and mirrors as well as the binders and polymers that keep it all together.

Properties & Best Uses of Quartz

Quartz is dense, durable, scratch-resistant and non-porous. The non-porosity of quartz means it never needs to be sealed and is inherently protected against bacteria, moisture and staining. Quartz countertops are also more tolerant of acidic spills—as long as they are cleaned up quickly—than their natural stone counterparts like marble, but less tolerant to heat unlike the natural stone surfaces.

Quartz is a popular choice for kitchen countertops, where it brings the following properties to the table:

  • Ease of Maintenance—A soft cloth and mild detergent will often do the trick. Quartz also doesn’t require regular sealing the way many natural stone surfaces do.
  • Durability—along with being scratch-resistant, quartz is dense and durable, making it a worthy contender for popular countertop materials like granite. 
  • Aesthetics—quartz can be made to mimic the look of natural stones, providing a cost-effective way to achieve the elegant, elevated look of stones like marble. 

Key Differences Between Porcelain and Quartz

  • The biggest difference between the two materials is their level of heat-resistance. Porcelain withstands heat well and is unaffected by direct sunlight, while quartz surfaces can warp or become discolored over time. 
  • Both materials are slip-resistant, which makes them good options for flooring. Quartz, however, is best used indoors while many porcelain tiles can be used inside or outdoors.

Conclusion

Quartz and porcelain both make excellent options for indoor tiling and walls, but if you are in search of a material that can be used outdoors as well, many porcelain tiles stand up well to the elements. 

When it comes to kitchen countertops, quartz is a substantial, durable material that can serve you well. If heat exposure and direct sunlight are concerns, however, porcelain might be better suited to your needs.

If you have questions about porcelain or quartz surfaces, get in touch with Cosmos! We offer a wide selection of products, and our blog provides information on materials, cleaning and maintenance as well as design tips.

Color of the Month: Lava Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Lava Blue! Neutral, dark blue with violet undertones calls to mind the power and beauty of the Earth’s natural forces. Pair with white or off-white to create a stunning accent wall, or design your foyer or dining room with this rich, welcoming blue in mind.

Venturesomely dotted and speckled by Mother Nature’s paintbrush, Blue Pearl GT is a Norwegian granite with a reputation for unparalleled elegance. Dubbed Blue Pearl for its characteristic spots of white that pop against the rich blues and blacks that span the granite, this natural stone is a terrific pick for a fashionable countertop.

How to Clean Backsplash Tile

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

how to clean backsplash til

Kitchens tend to be one of the most high-traffic areas in the home. Subsequently, they can require the most attention when it comes to daily cleaning. Backsplash—so named for its function—prevents grease, food and water splashes from damaging the walls behind areas like stoves and kitchen sinks. In this post, Cosmos Surfaces provides a simple guide on how to clean backsplash tile.

Function & Style

In the past, backsplash was primarily functional—it was often made from the same materials that lined kitchen countertops, such as plastic and linoleum. Over time, however, backsplash became a powerful design element, and the materials used now range from glass and ceramic tiles to natural stones like marble and granite. Backsplash offers a great way to add color, texture and a sense of detail to a kitchen space. While these attributes draw the eye, backsplash also takes on the inevitable grease, sauce, juice and water splashes that go along with daily kitchen activities.

Daily Cleaning

How often a kitchen is used for cooking will likely determine whether you need to worry about cleaning backsplash daily, or whether you can get away with a quick wipe-down after occasional use. Either way, the two primary areas that require attention tend to be the wall areas behind stoves and kitchen sinks.

The area directly behind a stove tends to be a prime target for grease and food splatters. It’s best to clean these as soon as they happen—the longer grease and food stains sit, the more tedious they will be to remove once you do get around to it.

Focusing on grease stains first, blot these areas with a dry cloth to soak up as much grease as possible. Next, use warm, soapy water (a mild detergent will often do the trick) and soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge to wipe down the area. Thoroughly rinse and dry backsplash after cleaning to prevent streaks, mildew and the attraction of dirt/dust.

Deep Cleaning

Even if you do manage to keep up with cleaning backsplash each time after cooking, you’ll still want to perform a deep clean every once in a while. This is the time to focus on removing any stubborn grease or food stains, as well as cleaning the grout between tiles.

While dedicated degreasing cleaners are a great option, there are simple DIY solutions that can also do the trick. If you do opt for a chemical cleaner, it’s always wise to ensure it is safe to use on your specific type of backsplash, safe for the environment and safe to use around your family. It’s also important to note that if your cleaner is a concentrate, it will need to be diluted according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Degreasing cleaners often work well when they are left to sit on the surface for 15-20 minutes, though this might vary by brand. A good approach is to spray the backsplash behind a stovetop first, allowing the solution to work on this grease-prone area while you tackle cleaning the rest of your backsplash. You may want to use the same cleaner for the area behind your kitchen sink, but you likely won’t need to wait before wiping, rinsing and drying this area.

To clean the grout between tiles, you can use a safe cleaner or a mixture of mild detergent and warm water with a toothbrush, gently scrubbing along grout lines.

Stubborn Stains

Grease and food stains can be tough to remove, especially if they are large or have been sitting for a while. In these cases, heavy-duty degreasing cleaners are available, but spot treating stains with DIY solutions can also be effective:

  • Combine equal parts warm water with baking soda to form a paste, then apply it to the stained areas. Allow the paste to dry before removing it with a clean, wet cloth (microfiber towels are a great option here) and repeat the process if necessary. The same paste mixture can be used to clean grout with a toothbrush.
  • Alternatively, combine distilled white vinegar with warm water and spray this on the affected areas, allowing it to sit for several minutes before using a clean towel or sponge to wipe, rinse and dry the area. It’s important to note that some DIY solutions also recommend using lemon juice—always double check that substances are safe to use on your backsplash materials. Marble, for example, can be damaged by acidic cleaners.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve found our guide on how to clean backsplash tiles useful. If you have any questions about backsplash materials and maintenance, reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We offer a wide selection of products and our team of experts is always happy to help.

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Fire and ice play together to create a transfixing scene on Mascarello, a Brazilian granite with a high level of pattern variation. Consistently warm and bright, the coloring of Mascarello oscillates between rusty orange, pearlescent white, blush-toned cream, muted black and sparkling gray. It is a daring and dazzling choice for countertops, vanities, floors and more.

How To Choose a Backsplash for Your Kitchen

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

choose a backsplash

By adding visual interest to the walls, a tile backsplash will instantly modernize just about any kitchen. Whether you desire a design that commands attention, or one that blends in with the rest of your kitchen design scheme, there’s a colossal range of tile colors, shapes and styles to choose from! With such a wide selection of beautiful options available, you might have a tough time deciding which will work best in your space. If you’re looking for expert advice, then this article on how to choose a backsplash for your kitchen was made for you! Read on to learn our pro tips for finding the ideal backsplash material, color and layout for your kitchen makeover.

How To Choose a Backsplash for Your Kitchen

Here are a few best practices to help you select a kitchen backsplash that complements your overall design, plus fits your budget & lifestyle:

  • Determine your square footage early on – When adding a backsplash on a budget, it’s wise to figure out how much square footage you have to cover prior to shopping for materials. Calculating this number will help you narrow down which tile material options are within your price range, given the scope of your kitchen renovation project.
  • Take tile properties into account – Naturally, you’ll want to research the durability, required maintenance & other qualities of various backsplash tile options. Keep in mind: Ceramic tile is a resilient, cost-effective option, while porcelain is even more hardwearing & moisture resistant, thanks to its higher density. Both are relatively low-maintenance and come in a broad range of gorgeous styles, with ceramic tending to be available in a slightly wider selection of intricate designs. Then, there’s natural stone tile, which offers rustic, organic beauty but typically requires regular sealing in a kitchen environment. For more details on these popular backsplash tile picks, check out our helpful comparisons of ceramic vs. porcelain tile and natural stone vs. ceramic tile!
  • Consider your countertops & other design elements – In terms of how to choose a backsplash color that meshes with your kitchen design, your countertops are a crucial factor. As a general rule of thumb, the bolder your countertops are, the more tame your backsplash should be. Staying within the same color palette can also be an effective strategy to unify your design. If you’d like your backsplash to pop, choosing a brighter contrasting color is a great way to accomplish this. A darker backsplash shade can afford a strikingly sophisticated aesthetic, especially when paired with white cabinetry. Keep in mind – these are merely suggestions. Ultimately, it’s your kitchen, your rules, so don’t be afraid to take a more imaginative approach!
  • Finalize your design goals – Deciding on a tile pattern is another key step in the backsplash designing process. Giving some thought to what you’d like to achieve in your design will help guide you to the right layout. If you’re going for a more traditional look that creates the illusion of a larger space, you might choose a classic brick layout using subway tile. To take center stage with your backsplash, ultra-modern & visually intriguing herringbone is a wonderful choice. Meanwhile, installing stacked stone tile on the walls will enliven your cooking space with rugged yet refined texture. For further inspiration, consult our full list of tile pattern ideas!
  • Embrace focal points – Panels of wall space above the sink, beyond where the cupboards end and behind the range are natural focal points in a kitchen layout. In turn, these are all great places to put an accent border you’d like people to notice. Perhaps you’ll choose a more ornate tile pattern for these areas, while selecting something simpler for the main backsplash.
  • Don’t forget about the grout – Selecting a grout shade offers yet another opportunity to personalize your tile design & complete your desired look! Check out our tips for choosing a complementary tile grout color for your backsplash installation.

Source An Attractive, Durable Backsplash Material from Cosmos Surfaces

Hopefully, you’ve learned some new & useful information in this article detailing how to choose a backsplash. If you’re looking forward to giving your kitchen a facelift with a stunning backsplash, the experts from Cosmos Surfaces are here to help you select & acquire your perfect tile variety! To get started with our friendly, highly trained team, contact us online today.

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Verde Fusion - Green Granite 3

Beautifully complex and richly diverse, Verde Fusion is comprised of greens, blacks, creams, browns, and greys. Hailing from India, Verde Fusion is a bold and impressive choice that complements modern settings. Use Verde Fusion inside as kitchen countertops, flooring, and backsplashes or outside as waterfalls, patio accents, or poolside tiling.

How Do You Clean a Marble Shower?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

how to clean a shower

Marble speaks of timeless luxury. It’s a material that can elevate just about any space, but it does require a specific care regimen. In this post, we answer the question of “how do you clean a marble shower?” and provide easy tips for ongoing care and maintenance.

What is Marble?

Let’s start with a quick overview of marble and its properties. This metamorphic rock forms when limestone is subjected to high amounts of heat and pressure. The stone is mainly composed of calcite, but it usually contains other minerals like micas, quartz and iron oxides as well.

Although marble is a natural stone, it is softer than some of its stone companions, like granite. Marble is also a porous, absorbent stone, which can make it vulnerable to spills and acidic substances if not sealed properly and regularly. As you go about caring for your marble surfaces, it’s important to keep the following points in mind:

  • Avoid acidic cleaners and DIY cleaners that make use of acidic substances like lemon and vinegar.
  • Use PH-neutral cleaners, or those specifically made for marble surfaces.
  • Avoid using course sponges, scrubbers, brushes or scrapers, as these can all damage marble surfaces. Microfiber towels are a great, safe alternative.
  • Marble needs to be sealed regularly, especially marble shower tiles as they are frequently subjected to water and humidity. This is one of the absolute most important steps in caring for marble surfaces.

Daily Cleaning

Marble can be etched by hard water deposits, so it’s important to keep up with daily cleaning to protect your investment. It’s also important to understand which cleaners are safe to use on marble, and which kinds to avoid.

Shower tiles of all kinds can benefit from being wiped down after each use, but this is especially true for marble shower tiles. It’s a good idea to keep microfiber towels on hand to wipe away any residual soap scum, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, grime and water after taking a shower.

Deep Cleaning

In addition to drying/wiping down shower tiles after each use, it’s a good idea to fully wash shower tiles on a regular basis. The frequency will depend on how often the shower is used, but if at least one person uses it per day, you’ll want to perform a deep clean at least once every week or two.

Again, cleaners that are specifically made for marble surfaces are a great option here, but you can use a homemade solution of mild dishwashing liquid and water. As always, check in with manufacturer specifications to ensure you are using products that are safe for your surfaces.

Adding warm water and 1 tablespoon of mild dishwashing liquid to a spray bottle makes it easy to spray down shower walls, focusing on areas where soap scum tends to collect. Next, wipe gently using vertical or horizontal strokes, then rinse tiles thoroughly with clean water. Be sure to dry shower walls completely with microfiber towels after each cleaning.

Sealing Marble Shower Tiles

When it comes to long-term care and maintenance, the most important thing you can do to protect marble shower tiles is to ensure they are sealed properly and regularly. Keeping tiles sealed prevents moisture and bacteria from getting absorbed into the stone, where it can cause damage like cracking or mold growth.

Our blog post all about sealing natural stone covers the ins and outs of this process and explains the different kinds of stone sealers you’ll find on the market. How often marble shower tiles need to be sealed will vary depending on the stone finish and products used, but a good rule of thumb is to seal at least once a year.

If you’d like to know more about marble surfaces in general, take a look at our blog posts on how to care for marble and the pros and cons of marble countertops.

Work with Cosmos!

If you still have questions about marble surfaces or the care and maintenance they require, let us know! Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, meaningful customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of products and resources to assist our customers in all their surface material needs.  Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Galapagos - Black Quartzite 2

Mountains of colors come to life in the quartzite named Galapagos. Galapagos brings to mind an aerial view of a cloudy mountain range, with peaks of green, rivers of blue and shadows of black. Unique layers and bands of color create a bold tone that looks great among blacks and silvers. Galapagos makes for interesting and artistic countertops and tables. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

The Pros and Cons of Natural Stone for Floor

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

pros and cons of natural stone floor

Designed and crafted by Mother Nature, natural stone offers unparalleled organic beauty and everlasting elegance. Along with magnificent aesthetics, naturally occurring stones like marble, granite and quartzite also deliver dependable durability. The style and functionality of natural stone can be leveraged in spaces throughout the home, with natural stone for floor holding a place among the most viable applications. Still, like any material, natural stone has perks as well as downfalls to be aware of when considering it for flooring. Let’s take a look at some of the major positives and possible negatives of deciding on natural stone for floors.

The Pros of Natural Stone for Floor

The plentiful benefits of incorporating natural stone flooring into your home design include:

  • It’s sturdy & non-slip – Providing plenty of traction, natural stone is a practical option for households with kids and pets. It will reliably withstand family foot traffic, so long as you choose a variety which is approved for flooring.
  • It lends a luxurious, one-of-a-kind look – If you are looking to elevate your interior or exterior design, adding natural stone is a surefire way to accomplish this. From exquisite Alpine Blue granite to whimsical Scarlet Crystal quartzite to dramatic Red Dragon onyx, there are endless natural stone color, style & size options available to help bring your vision to life.
  • It’s uncomplicated to clean – Taking care of natural stone flooring is relatively straightforward and not overly time consuming. A few keys for success include choosing an appropriate cleaner and sweeping/mopping regularly to prevent buildup of dust & debris. For more details, check out our comprehensive guide to cleaning natural stone like a pro!

The Cons of Natural Stone for Floor

Now, for a few conceivable downsides of installing a natural stone floor:

  • It’s one of the pricier options – Depending on the size of the area you need to cover, as well as the particular type of stone you choose, natural stone flooring can get costly. You may also eventually need to hire a professional to repair chips and other imperfections which may occur with daily wear and tear. If it suits your budget, however, investing in this splendid, long-lasting flooring material will assuredly prove to be worth the expense!
  • It’s typically porous by nature – Most types of natural stone are porous, meaning they require regular sealing to ensure that moisture, bacteria and other substances cannot penetrate their surface. Necessary to prevent stains & preserve the floor’s integrity over time, this maintenance step can make natural stone a bit less appealing to some homeowners.

A Few More Important Considerations

Now that we’ve laid out the advantages and potential negative points of choosing natural stone for floor projects, we’d like to end with a couple additional tips to keep in mind:

  • Remember that different types of natural stone have unique properties – Marble, soapstone, granite, onyx, schist and quartzite all fall under the category of natural stone. However, each has its own set of distinct characteristics. When comparing & contrasting, be sure to consider appearance, care requirements and other qualities which could affect the suitability of certain natural stone varieties for your desired application.
  • Don’t forget to ask about moisture absorption rate – If you are considering natural stone for flooring in an area that is prone to moisture, such as a bathroom or outdoor living space, moisture absorption rate is another essential consideration. Pro tip: For these applications, a naturally non-porous (impervious) stone such as soapstone will perform best, with minimal maintenance required!

Explore Our Premier Selection of Natural Stone Surfaces

A precious product of the earth, natural stone is known for its wondrous, inimitable appearance and array of practical properties. If you desire to bring a combination of durability & head-turning beauty into your home, you may wish to install a natural stone floor. But, with such an extensive range of options available, choosing the best stone variety for your particular project can feel a bit overwhelming.

Fortunately, the professionals at Cosmos Surfaces are here to assist you in your search for the perfect natural stone surface. To learn more about our selection and begin planning your project, reach out to your trusted stone supplier today!

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Imagine you’re walking along the forest floor. Looking up, a tangle of brown branches intersect with the sky; like its name suggests, Rain Forest Green brings to mind the image of a lush rainforest. The complex texture and varied greens, golds, and browns make Rain Forest Green a beautiful choice in rooms with greenery or in gardens.

A Guide to Tile Laying Patterns: Part 2

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

guide to laying tile

Welcome to the second of our two-part guide on tile pattern ideas! In A Guide to Tile Laying Patterns: Part 1, we covered some of the most popular single- and two-tile patterns out there, but now it’s time to kick things up a notch. In this post, we’ll explore three-tile, multi-tile and large format tile patterns, as well as backsplash ideas.

THREE-TILE AND MULTI-TILE PATTERNS

By adding more unique tiles to a pattern, it’s possible to achieve a level of design and complexity that is totally unique to your space. Let’s look at a few popular three-tile and multi-tile pattern ideas:

Layered Corridor

Typically, a corridor pattern is achieved by selecting at least two tiles that differ in size, color or material and laying them in alternating rows for a “corridor” effect. You can add complexity to this pattern by using three or more unique types of tile and alternating with each row. Using a variety of tile sizes works well for this layout.

Versailles

versailles

Also known as the “French pattern,” the Versailles layout uses four tiles in varying sizes. Pairing tiles with complimentary color and texture variations gives this pattern a wonderful sense of detail and complexity.

The Versailles layout requires some exact measurement—the design creates a repeatable 8 square foot area utilizing four 8” x 8” squares, four 16” x 16” squares, two 8” x 16” rectangles and two 16” x 24” rectangles.

Soldiered

This one is quite similar to a windmill layout, which we covered in Part 1, but in this version a large square tile is used in the center, while varying smaller tiles alternate around its border. This is an excellent opportunity to utilize accent colors and match them to other design elements in a room.

In order to lay down this pattern, you’ll need a large square tile, a smaller square tile half its size, and a rectangular tile with the dimensions you would get if you cut the larger square tile in half. As an example, you could use a 12” x 12” large square tile, a 6” x 6” smaller square tile and a 6” x 12” rectangular tile.

LARGE-FORMAT TILES

Due to their size, it can be hard to use complex patterns with large-format tiles. Instead, a few of the simpler layouts can be modified to add interest and variation.

Stepped Brick Patterns

When using large format rectangular tiles, a stepped brick pattern is a great way to add detail and energy to a layout. In this pattern, rows are offset incrementally in one direction, creating a flowing “step” effect. Pro-tip: laying large rectangular tiles vertically can make a room feel larger.

Herringbone Insert

Another modification that works well with large rectangles is the herringbone insert. In this pattern, two smaller square tiles are used in the corner to complete the classic “L” shape the herringbone pattern is known for. You can lay down two of your large rectangular tiles to create an “L” while leaving room to insert two smaller square tiles in the corner.

Staggered Corridor

staggered corridor

A staggered corridor is a great way to add simple variation to large-format tiles. Using long, narrow rectangles and alternating rows with even narrower tiles works well. For the staggered effect, you can randomly stagger the offset between rows to create playful complexity.

BACKSPLASH

The smaller tiles typically used for backsplash opens the door to a plethora of patterns. Many of the layouts we’ve discussed for walls and flooring can be used for backsplash as well, but let’s look at some ideas that work particularly well for backsplash:

Mosaic

mosaic

Mosaic tiles are very small (think 1” x 1”) and typically repeat in shapes or patterns to create a complex, textured look. Mosaic tiles require more grout, and due to the “busy” look they are known for, these tiles work best in accent areas. The possibilities for pattern designs are just about endless, but even using just one color can still add texture and a look of complexity to a space.

Hexagon

hexagon

Hexagonal shaped tiles fit together perfectly, making installation simple and straightforward, but you can still introduce patterns like simple flowers or abstract designs by utilizing different colors and textures.

Lacework Patterns

A lacework pattern uses small square tiles and small rectangular tiles installed at a 45-degree angle. Alternate between squares and rectangles and offset the alignment of your rows so that square tiles and rectangular tiles line up.

Need More Tile Pattern Ideas? Work With Cosmos

We hope you’ve found our guide to tile pattern ideas useful! This is by no means an exhaustive list of the possibilities out there, and many of these patterns can be modified to create the look of your dreams.

If you have questions about tiling or other surface materials, get in touch with Cosmos! We offer a wide selection of products, and our blog provides information on materials, cleaning, maintenance and design tips!

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Peacocks are known for their brilliant, iridescent plumage, and this Peacock Green granite is known for its similarly dazzling effect. Feather-like wisps of dark forest green, sage, and indigo dance with subtle flecks of orange and beige. This green granite would look sumptuous and inviting in any interior or exterior space: tabletops, flooring, countertops, vanities, waterfall islands, patios, backsplashes, and more. See this luxe green granite for yourself at a Cosmos location near you.

All About Tile Water Absorption

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

tile water absorption

Among homeowners desiring an aesthetically pleasing backsplash, floor or shower surround that is dependably impervious to moisture, porcelain tile is an unmistakably superior choice. Thanks to the high temperatures & dense materials used to engineer this material, the porcelain tile water absorption rate is incredibly low. Porcelain boasts the highest level of moisture resistance of any tile material out there! Read on to learn more about how tile density & absorption rate are tied together, plus find out where various types of tile rank on the moisture absorption scale.

Porcelain Tile Water Absorption Rate: How It’s Calculated

When planning a project in a high-moisture indoor environment such as the bathroom or kitchen – or outdoors – water resistance is a crucial consideration. If tile absorbs too much moisture over time, it can lead to major issues, such as cracking or warping.

A tile’s water absorption rate specifies how much moisture it is likely to hold on a continual basis, and provides insight into how reliably the surface will resist water and other liquids. This measurement is obtained by boiling a piece of tile and noting how much weight it gains as a result.

Whether a certain variety of tile is appropriate for an area prone to moisture will largely depend on its level of density. As a general rule, the higher a tile’s density, the lower its water absorption rate; and thus, the higher its moisture resistance level.

How Tile Is Ranked Based on Density & Water Absorption Rate

The following system, created by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), is used to rank the density and resultant water absorption rate of tile:

  • Low Density (Non-Vitreous) – This ranking indicates that a tile has a water absorption rate above 7 percent. This type of tile is approved for indoor use only.
  • Medium Density (Semi-Vitreous) – Tiles with a water absorption rate of 3-7 percent are considered medium density. Again, these tiles should exclusively be used indoors to avoid damage.
  • High Density (Fully Vitreous) – A water absorption rate between .5 percent and 3 percent makes tile suitable for use in exterior applications as well as interior ones.
  • Extremely Dense (Impervious) – The most dense tiles have a water absorption rate of .5 percent or less. Typically, the porcelain tile water absorption rate falls in this category, meaning that porcelain tile can be used virtually anywhere – indoors or out!

As you can see, ceramic & porcelain tile water absorption rate has a direct impact on whether a specific type of tile is well suited for a particular setting. Because the porcelain tile water absorption rate is generally 0.5% or below, it’s no wonder this surfacing material is such a popular selection for shower features, backsplashes, exterior wall cladding, swimming pools and flooring throughout the home!

A Few Important Notes

Now that we’ve provided an overview of what a tile’s water absorption rate means and how it’s determined, we’d like to offer a few additional tips to keep in mind when considering tile for a design project:

  • The lower a tile’s water absorption rate, the less readily it will absorb food & beverage stains. This is yet another benefit of choosing dense porcelain tile for kitchen applications!
  • As for ceramic tile, the water absorption rate can vary widely. The density of this material spans from low to high, depending on the specific variety. Be sure to inquire about the absorption rate of any tiles you are considering, in order to ensure they are a good fit for your project.
  • Natural stone tile is another beautiful & durable option for projects throughout the home. However, it typically needs to be sealed regularly in order to offer ample moisture resistance for kitchen & bathroom applications.
  • Another important thing to consider is the water resistance level of the grout used for your tile installation. Most likely, the grout will be less capable of repelling liquids than the tile itself, in which case a sealant will be required to prevent moisture penetration over time.

Complete Your Surfacing Project with the Pros at Cosmos Surfaces

After all this talk about tile, you may be eager to explore beautiful, resilient surfacing options for your home. Perhaps you’d like help deciding between ceramic vs. porcelain tile, or maybe you’re interested in hearing about the benefits of natural stone. As a trusted surfacing material supplier & authority, Cosmos Surfaces is here to help you locate the perfect option to fit your application, design style and budget. To leverage the expertise of our friendly team for your upcoming project, get in touch with us on our website today!

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Specks of ethereal amber and bright white serve as the perfect accentuating accompaniment to royal jade; this description depicts Butterfly Green, a visually gratifying granite found in Brazil. Its consistent pattern makes it a highly versatile choice suited for use in many different applications, including vanity tops, backsplashes and countertops.

A Guide to Tile Laying Patterns: Part 1

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

guide laying tile

Once you’ve found the perfect tile for your space, it’s time to show it off with an eye-catching layout. The options are good and plenty, and an expert use of tile laying patterns can truly elevate the interior design of your home. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to tile laying patterns to help you explore some gorgeous tile ideas. In this post––the first of Cosmos Surfaces’s two-part guide––we’ll explore the most popular single-tile and two-tile patterns.

SINGLE-TILE PATTERNS

If you’ve chosen a single tile for your walls or flooring, there are still plenty of options to play around with the layout. We’ll note here that “single-tile” refers to tiles that are of the same shape, color, pattern and size (tiles that look the same but consist of two different sizes fall under two-tile patterns, which we’ll discuss later in this post).

Classic Brick Layout

classic brick layout

This is a layout most of us are familiar with: rectangular tiles are placed in horizontal rows, and each row is offset by half a tile-width. This pattern is timeless, and the resulting horizontal lines can visually widen a room to great effect, making the space feel bigger and more open. The classic brick layout works well where one simple kind of tile is used. Pairing the tile with grout in a contrasting color can help accentuate the horizontal lines and consistent geometric pattern throughout.

Vertical Brick

Much like the classic brick layout, a vertical brick pattern is simply rotated vertically. With this layout, the vertical lines lead the eye upward, creating a sense of height and spaciousness. This is a great way to add a contemporary twist to a classic motif and works well in smaller spaces, like bathrooms or kitchens.

Herringbone

herringbone

This pattern creates a zig-zag formation by laying tiles at right angles to each other. Herringbone patterns work beautifully on accent walls and add a sense of visual energy. The complexity of the grout lines created by this pattern plays well with simple tiles. The layout can also be used to break up a larger section of walling, flooring, or backsplash. This creates a focal point within a simpler surrounding pattern, such as a classic brick layout. It’s important to note this pattern does require the cutting of tiles as it approaches borders, which can lead to some degree of tile waste.

Stacked

stacked

In a stacked pattern, tiles are precisely aligned in a simple, repeating grid. This layout creates a modern look and feel, and its simplistic design has a soothing effect. Stacked patterns work well in modern spaces where clean shapes and straight lines reign supreme. As with a brick layout, bright or contrasting grout can help emphasize this simple, geometric pattern.

TWO-TILE PATTERNS

Introducing a second tile in a different shape, size, color or material can add interesting detail and complexity to any layout.

Hopscotch/Pinwheel

hopscotch

A popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens, the hopscotch––or pinwheel––design uses one large tile with a smaller tile “pinwheeling” around it. While this is a simple design, it still introduces a layer of detail and complexity, especially when a different material or accent color is selected for the smaller tile. Pro-tip: match this accent tile with other textures or colors in the space to pull together different design elements.

Basketweave

basketweave

Taking its name from the “woven” effect created by this layout, the basketweave pattern is traditional and timeless. This layout leaves plenty of room to play with different colors and materials. A basketweave pattern can be created either with brick-shaped tiles alone, or with brick-shaped tiles combined with smaller square tiles. Using rectangular brick-shaped tiles alone, stack two tiles horizontally, and the next two tiles vertically.

basketweave 2

To create a basketweave pattern with rectangular tiles and small square tiles, lay a rectangular tile horizontally and a small square tile at each of its corners. Lay a rectangular tile vertically in the space between the square tiles, and repeat. This pattern will provide an even more textured look and feel.

Windmill

A windmill layout is similar to a basketweave, with smaller square tiles that are half the length of your larger rectangular tiles (if your rectangular tiles are 12” x 6”, your square tiles will need to be 6” x 6”). To build the pattern, the square tile is placed in the center and framed by the larger rectangular tiles to create a “windmill” effect.

Corridor

The corridor layout makes use of mixed-width tiles placed in alternating rows or columns. A popular choice is selecting a square tile and a rectangular tile to alternate rows, but there is plenty of room to experiment with color, width and material.

Tic Tac

In this layout, tiles alternate within the same row, creating a dot and dash pattern. Tiles should be the same width, but with varying lengths––such as squares and rectangles. A tic tac pattern can be installed vertically or horizontally, and the longer the rectangular tiles, the better the visual effect will be. Pro-tip: rows should be offset by one third for the best effect.

Tile Laying Patterns Part 1: Conclusion

This is by no means an exhaustive list of one-tile and two-tile patterns. As you can see, there are plenty of great options to add interesting detail and complexity to your tile layout. In part two of our guide to tile layout patterns, we’ll discuss three-tile, multi-tile and large format tile patterns, as well as gorgeous backsplash ideas.

Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, meaningful customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of products and resources to assist our customers in all their surface material needs.  Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Transport yourself to the high seas with the Brazilian quartzite of Del Mare. A seafoam greenish gray, Del Mare conjures a versatile atmosphere. In brighter lights, Del Mare reflects the tranquil, still waters of the Caribbean, while in darker shadows, it paints a stormier picture. Del Mare looks pristine in aquatic spaces. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

What Are Mosaic Tiles?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

mosaic

Do you aspire to make your home interior a work of art? We invite you to enter the world of mosaic tile, a material which can be used to create personalized masterpieces throughout the home! Available in a virtually unlimited selection of sizes, shapes and colors – plus numerous different material options – mosaic tile can be fashioned into an eye-catching floor, a modern yet timeless backsplash, or a statement-making shower feature. Today, we’re here to answer a few FAQs about this popular surfacing material, including “how do mosaics work?” & “what are mosaic tiles made of?”

How Do Mosaics Work?

In essence, describing a tile design as “mosaic” means that it consists of small (typically no larger than 2-inch by 2-inch) pieces arranged together to form a larger pattern. While mosaic styles can range from simple to complex, these artistic creations nearly always feature repeating shapes or sets of shapes.

mosaics work

Owing to the repetition in pattern, shape and/or color, adorning a surface with mosaic tile functions to add visually intriguing texture and detail. Typically used in smaller areas as an accent, mosaic tile serves as the perfect complement to main design elements, such as natural stone countertops or larger tile settings.

As compared to more classic tile layouts, mosaic tile requires more careful grouting, as well as the use of more grout in many cases. A perk of additional grout being required is that it makes for a more slip-resistant surface. In turn, mosaic tiles are a terrific choice for spaces such as shower floors and niches.

What Are Mosaic Tiles Made Of?

Perhaps the most commonly known mosaic tile materials are ceramic and porcelain – but these are far from your only choices for crafting a stunning mosaic tile pattern! If you’re wondering, “what are mosaic tiles made of, exactly?”, here’s a quick overview of a few of the most popular tile materials:

  • Ceramic – To make ceramic tiles, natural clay is baked in a kiln. Typically, the clay is finished with a protective glaze to make the tile resistant to stains & moisture. This step ensures that ceramic tile can endure daily wear and tear in the kitchen or bathroom, making it a suitable choice for backsplashes, interior walls and floors which receive light foot traffic.
  • Porcelain – For those seeking a more hardwearing tile material, porcelain fits the bill. Consisting of a blend of feldspar, white clay and sand, porcelain is fired at a higher temperature than ceramic, making it significantly more dense & durable. Porcelain tile is appropriate for applications both inside and outside of the home, including walls, countertops and floors which receive heavy foot traffic.
  • Natural Stone – After they are quarried, natural stones such as marble, slate and granite may be cut into pieces of tile. Natural stone tile delivers a tranquil blend of color, texture & rustic charm, and many types are durable enough to be used for various applications – including flooring.

This is merely a sample of the many mosaic tile materials which may be used to add individualized allure to your interior. A few other possibilities include glass, metal or a blend of glass and natural stone. Being that they come in such an extensive range of material options, with endless opportunities for customization, mosaic tiles are among the most versatile surfacing selections.

For a more in-depth look at the various tile materials we’ve discussed above, check out our detailed comparisons of natural stone vs. ceramic tile and porcelain vs. ceramic tile!

Explore Premium Surfacing Materials with Cosmos Surfaces

Now that we’ve covered the basics of mosaic tiles and how they can accentuate existing design elements, you may be contemplating whether this surface could be a good fit for your next project. The surfacing professionals at Cosmos Surfaces are here to help you determine if mosaic tile is best for a certain space in your home, or if another material might be a more ideal option.

Our design experts will be happy to provide more details on our wide selection of products and offer ideas for how they may be used to elevate your personal interior design scheme. To get started, simply fill out our online contact form, and a member of our team will respond to you shortly!

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”

Ubatuba Green - Green Granite 1

Ubatuba Green is a granite comprised of a green so deep and rich it’s nearly black. Speckles of grey, white, and gold crystals produces a vision of a starry sky swirling with galaxy dust. Ubatuba Green creates an atmosphere of elegance and meaning and brings depth to any room. It looks great as floors, walls, countertops, and fireplaces.

Are Ceramic Tiles Sustainable?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

ceramic tiles sustainable

If you are thinking of using ceramic tiles in your next kitchen or bathroom project, you may be wondering, “Are ceramic tiles sustainable?” As we learn more about climate change and how humans are impacting the Earth, people are increasingly looking for ways to use “green” building materials that will minimize their negative impact on the environment. As a design process, green building takes sustainability into account every step of the way, from site selection to maintenance to eventual removal. We’ve already talked about how natural stone is sustainable and eco-friendly; this week, Cosmos Surfaces will talk about sustainability and ceramic tiles.

Are Ceramic Tiles Sustainable?

Great news for those looking to harness the beauty and versatility of ceramic tiles: they are highly sustainable and made of natural materials that don’t harm the environment. They are easily produced, can be recycled, and can be cleaned and maintained without toxic chemicals. Let’s take a closer look at some of the characteristics that make ceramic tiles a good option for green building and remodeling.

Material Extraction

Ceramic tiles are composed of natural clay that is extracted straight from the earth and baked in a kiln. Natural clay is plentiful, easy to extract, and often found in close proximity to tile factories. This means that extraction, fuel consumption, and transportation costs are all kept to a minimum during the ceramic tile production process. Efficient production plays a major role in whether a building material can be considered truly sustainable.

Recycled Content

Many ceramic tiles use recycled materials. In addition, manufacturers often recycle raw material and water waste back into the production cycle. Even the “leftovers” of the tile production process are typically ground up for road filler, paving brick, and other uses. Because ceramic is inert, it can be reused again after the useful life of a building. In other words, ceramic tiles can be recovered and recycled as filler material if a building is demolished or removed. Minimal waste makes ceramic tiles a very sustainable surfacing material.

Durability

Because ceramic tiles are highly durable when properly installed and maintained, they won’t need to be repaired or replaced often. The expected lifespan of a ceramic tile is about 50 years. This longevity means less money and resources spent on extracting raw materials, transportation, installation, and all the other steps that go into producing and using ceramic tiles.

Maintenance

Ceramic tiles are extremely easy to clean using warm water, pH-neutral cleaners, and a soft cloth or sponge. There is no need to clean ceramics using toxic chemicals, solvents, or waxes that can leach into our drinking water or soil. Because they are non-porous, most ceramic tiles also don’t need to be sealed and won’t absorb stains or odors over time. A quick wipe-down as part of your weekly cleaning routine eliminates the need for deep cleaning when it comes to ceramic tiles.

Are Ceramic Tiles Right for Your Project?

Now that you know that ceramic tiles are sustainable, are they right for your kitchen or bathroom project? Ceramic tiles are perfect for a wide range of applications. They are most often seen in backsplashes and interior walls, where you can create beautiful and colorful tile patterns. The large array of color and texture options can be used to create any kind of look or feel you want in a design. Ceramic tiles can even closely mimic real wood or luxurious natural stone, while being completely water-repellant and a breeze to maintain.

However, not all ceramic tiles are ideal for use in high-traffic floors, outdoor applications, and other places where they might be exposed to extreme hot or cold temperatures. For projects like outdoor patios, kitchen countertops, and entryway floors, natural stone is the most durable option. Be sure to read our blog on natural stone vs. ceramic tile for more information about where these materials are best used in your next project.

Explore High-Quality, Sustainable Ceramic Tiles with Cosmos Surfaces

Cosmos Surfaces is passionate about connecting clients with sustainable surfacing options. We offer a wide range of natural and engineered stone and tile options to suit any design style and application. Be sure to browse our full catalog of surfacing materials. If you want to learn more about our ceramic tile portfolio, get in touch by filling out our contact form today.

Color of the Month: Chive

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-0323, Chive! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A savory herbal green, Chive imparts a healthy and restorative harmony.”’

Named after the famous Renaissance artist, Botticelli is an artful masterpiece. Intensely complex, Botticelli is comprised of swirls, waves, and layers of color. Browns and golds meet grays and blacks in this Brazilian quartzite. Whether for flooring, tables, or countertops, Botticelli is sure to turn any room into a work of art. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Use Stacked Stone Tile

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

stacked stone

Could your current dining/living area design be described as “rustic yet modern”? Or, maybe this blend of design styles applies more aptly to your dream entertaining space. In either case, stacked stone tile is a surfacing trend which may very well appeal to you. In this article, Cosmos Surfaces will tell you all about how stacked stone can be used to accentuate the interior or exterior of your home. Plus, we’ll offer pointers on what to consider when deciding whether this material is a good fit for your design & lifestyle.

What Is Stacked Stone?

First off, let’s discuss what stacked stone is made of and how it’s installed. To achieve the contemporary-meets-rustic look, cut pieces of natural stone in varying sizes are applied to a substrate, which is then affixed to the wall. Similar to the method typically used to install tile, this process creates a textured, visually intriguing stone veneer surface.

One major difference that sets stacked stone tile apart from other tiled & stone surfaces? When installing the stones, no grout is used, creating the appearance of a seamless wall. And unlike rugged stone walls of the past, stacked stone pieces feature sharply cut edges and a smooth finish, making for a more contemporary look. These techniques work together to define the distinctly modern aesthetic of this multi-dimensional stone application.

Where Can Stacked Stone Tile Be Used?

As mentioned above, stacked stone tile is appropriate for both indoor & outdoor use. Inside the home, it might be crafted into an unforgettable backsplash, feature wall or fireplace surround. Leverage its rustic elegance throughout the home, from the bathroom to the kitchen to the family room!

Blending classic & contemporary charm, stacked stone looks superb in outdoor kitchens. Strong and durable enough to withstand the elements, it can be used in landscaping applications, as well as to call attention to certain exterior features of the home. Stacked stone is commonly affixed to columns or installed around doors, and it is often applied below siding to add rustic flair.

Regardless of where it is installed, stacked stone will provide one-of-a-kind beauty for many years to come.

Considerations for Stacked Stone Applications

Thinking of incorporating stacked stone into your home’s interior or exterior, now that you know about its amazing aesthetic value? Here are a few important things to consider:

  • Factor in your desired finish – When choosing a material, keep in mind that stacked stone can have a polished or natural finish. Harder stones like granite & quartzite are better suited if a polished finish is desired, whereas softer stones work well with a natural finish.
  • Be prepared for color variation – Because stacked stone tile is made with natural stone, some color variation is a given. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to pull colors from your stacked stone surface to inspire your color palette for other elements in the space.
  • Keep in mind that pricing can vary – With more changes to the natural stone comes a higher project price, generally speaking. For instance, requesting a polished finish or a more labor-intensive edge style can make stacked stone more costly.

Caring for Stacked Stone

Stacked stone is quite simple to maintain. Being that it is used on vertical surfaces, this feature material does not receive foot traffic, nor is it subjected to daily wear and tear like a countertop. Still, it is important to practice these steps to keep stacked stone pristine over time:

  • If placed in your kitchen or around your fireplace, there’s a good chance that stacked stone will get food splatters or discolored areas. Luckily, wiping with a neutral stone cleaner as needed should take care of any spots.
  • Dust buildup on stacked stone ledges can be easily removed with a handheld vacuum or duster.
  • Annual sealing is recommended to extend the longevity of your stacked stone, plus make it easier to maintain. Sealing is especially important for stacked stone installed in a kitchen, bathroom or fireplace surround.

Plan Your Stone Surfacing Project with Our Specialists

At Cosmos Surfaces, we are dedicated to helping homeowners & industry professionals complete their surfacing projects to perfection. Whether you are interested in a stacked stone accent wall, a dazzling natural stone countertop or some other stone surface, our experts are here to help you plan and execute your vision. We invite you to preview our expansive collection online & get in touch with your trusted stone supplier for professional assistance!

Color of the Month: Ash

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-3802, Ash! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Solid and strong, eternally timeless Ash conveys a message of longevity.”

Cielo is a mellow type of quartzite that originates in Brazil. The overarching browns of Cielo are off-set by whites, greys, and silvers that form a sky-like visual that is heavenly. The cloudy atmosphere of Cielo looks perfect next to silvers and blacks when installed as calming bathroom vanities and soft, modern kitchen countertops. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Natural Stone Vs. Ceramic Tile

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

natural stone vs ceramic

Tile is one of the most diverse surface materials out there––it can be used for flooring, walling, backsplash, outdoor patios and many other applications. It’s no surprise, then, your choice of tile material can help set the design tone for your entire space. In this post, we look at the key differences between stone vs ceramic tile to help you decide which one is the right fit for your space.

How it’s Made

One of the biggest differences between natural stone and ceramic tile lies in how each material is made:

  • Natural stone tile is quarried directly from the earth and cut into uniform shapes, creating tiles that can be used in a variety of settings, depending on the type of stone selected.
  • Ceramic Tiles are man-made from natural clay. This clay is baked in a kiln, and commonly finished with a glaze to protect the tiles from moisture and staining.

Aesthetic Appeal of Stone vs Ceramic Tiles

Depending on the look you are going for, different design styles can be emphasized with each material:

  • Natural stone tiles lend a sense of luxury to a space. Marble, for example, has long been associated with a timeless elegance that can elevate the look of any room. The range of natural stone options is so diverse in texture and color, and natural stone tiles can be used to create a warm, rustic design aesthetic. These tiles also work beautifully in spaces where natural elements like wood, water and plants are highlighted and celebrated.
  • Ceramic tiles can often be made to mimic natural stone patterns or hardwood flooring. As it is a man-made material, ceramic is available in a wider range of colors, and also makes it possible to ensure all tiles appear uniform in spaces where consistency in pattern and color are desired. Ceramic tile makes it possible to use colors and patterns not typically found in nature.

Durability

When it comes to areas where everyday wear and tear are unavoidable, durability is key: 

  • Natural stone tiles vary in durability depending the type of stone you choose. Granite and slate, for example, generally do a better job of holding up to everyday wear and tear than softer marble. They therefore make more appropriate choices for applications like flooring, especially in areas with a lot of foot traffic. Regular maintenance can help natural stone last for generations, Since natural stone tiles may chip around the edges and corners with extensive wear over time, selecting a stone with a rustic look to it can help embrace these imperfections.     
  • Ceramic tiles are made with different hardness ratings, known as PEI ratings, that range from 1 to 5 (“PEI” is the abbreviation for Porcelain Enamel Institute). For flooring, you’ll want to select a ceramic tile with a PEI rating of 3 or higher. Ceramic tiles with a lower rating can be used for applications like backsplashes or wall cladding.

Maintenance

Both natural stone and ceramic require regular maintenance. Let’s look at the key differences in maintaining the two materials:

  • Cleaning Products: Natural stone typically requires PH-neutral cleaners, or cleaners specifically made for natural stone surfaces. Acidic cleaners can damage the stone and should be avoided. Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, can be cleaned with a wide variety of products.
  • Sealant: Natural stone tends to be porous and needs to be sealed regularly to prevent moisture damage and staining. Ceramic tiles are often manufactured with a durable glaze. It’s possible that you will need to apply sealant over the grout between ceramic tiles to prevent staining, while unglazed ceramic will likely require regular sealant applications, much like natural stone does.

Budget

Surface material decisions often come down to budgeting. While ceramic tiles usually make for a less expensive option, natural stone surfaces can be viewed as a life-long investment that can increase the resale value of your home, especially when installed in key areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

It’s important to note that decisions throughout the production process, the type of stone and installation process can all drastically change the cost of natural stone surfaces. Before making any final decisions based solely on your budget, reach out to a professional to see whether simple customizations can help place a material within your price range. The luxurious, authentic look and durability of natural stone easily makes it worth the investment.

Natural Stone Vs. Ceramic Tile: Work with Cosmos!

If you have questions about tiling or other surface materials, get in touch with Cosmos! We offer a wide selection of products, and our blog provides information on materials, cleaning and maintenance as well as design tips.

Color of the Month: Ash

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-3802, Ash! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Solid and strong, eternally timeless Ash conveys a message of longevity.”

Allure Quartzite is a type of grey quartzite; a soothing, sophisticated choice for countertops, flooring, walls, backsplashes, and other projects, both indoors and out. The soft, blue-grey tones and wavy veins create a lovely, calming visual appeal. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched. Check out this grey quartzite today at your nearest Cosmos location!

An Overview of Ceramic Tile Properties

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

overview of ceramic

Whether you’re seeking the perfect material for your kitchen backsplash, your shower walls or your next flooring project, ceramic tile may very well be on your radar. After all, this popular surfacing selection has long won praise for its versatility, durability and fresh yet timeless aesthetic. Not to mention the wide array of stunning, personalized ceramic tile patterns you can create! If you’re considering this material for an upcoming project, you’ll want to take some time to get acquainted with the full spectrum of ceramic tile properties. In this overview, we’ll go beyond the basics and tell you everything you should know when considering ceramic tile for various applications.

An Overview of Ceramic Tile Properties

While different varieties of ceramic tile share common characteristics, there can also be quite a bit of variation in everything from a tile’s density to its slip resistance to its shade uniformity. Here’s a helpful guide to ceramic tile properties and how variations might affect a tile’s suitability for a certain application:

  • Shade Variation – With both ceramic and porcelain tile, shade variation may occur. In other words, individual pieces of tile can sometimes be varied in their color or tone. Further, the tile received for your installation may not always be an exact match to the sample(s) provided. To ensure your finished product is exactly what you envisioned, it is important to discuss the possibility of shade variation with a ceramic tile expert. Before installation of the tile, have your tile contractor layout the tiles to see the color and tonal variation and get an idea of how the tile will look  post installation. For applications such as shower walls, shade variation may actually be welcome, as it can add one-of-a-kind flair!
  • Abrasion Resistance/PEI Rating – A PEI rating is assigned to specify the hardness & durability of ceramic tile. In essence, PEI is a measure of how well the particular tile’s surface is able to resist abrasion, on a scale from 0 to 5. Ceramic tile which receives a ranking of 0-1 is considered light duty, meaning it is appropriate for use on walls only. Tile with a PEI rating of 2-3 may be used for walls, countertops and floors in residential settings. Meanwhile, a score of 4-5 means a tile can withstand heavier use in both residential & commercial applications.
  • Resistance to Water Absorption – Among the most beloved tile properties is the material’s impressive moisture repelling abilities. Most porcelain tiles are very dense with an absorption rate of 0.5% or less and are considered to be impervious.  Thus, it’s no surprise that porcelain tile is a top choice for shower walls, swimming pools, exterior wall cladding, kitchen & bathroom backsplashes as well as mudroom floors. To be sure that a porcelain tile is well suited to your application, be sure to inquire about its absorption rate. This factor is especially crucial when the tile is being evaluated to exterior use.
  • Thermal Shock Resistance – If you are planning to use ceramic tile in an application where it may potentially be exposed to rapid extreme temperature changes, such as near a fireplace or stove, it is important to consider the tile’s thermal shock resistance rating. Along the lines of how some tiles have a harder glaze and thus have a higher PEI rating, certain ceramics are more resistant to temperature variation and cracking than others.
  • Frost Resistance – Ceramic tiles can be installed for light-use outdoor applications like patios, or for exterior surface cladding provided they have a high enough frost resistance rating. This rating refers to the capability of a tile to withstand repeated freeze/ thaw cycles when subjected to sudden and extreme changes in temperatures. A tile is certified as frost resistant when it satisfies the standards set forth by either EN202, ISO10545-12 or ASTM C 1026. In general, glazed ceramic tile typically boasts a relatively high level of frost resistance when compared to unglazed tile.
  • Slip Resistance/Coefficient of Friction – The coefficient of friction is used to indicate a tile’s resistance to slippage. Needless to say, this is a crucial consideration for a ceramic tile floor. Generally speaking, the more textured a ceramic tile is, the less slippery it will be. With a coefficient of friction above or equal to 0.60, ceramic tile is considered slip resistant. When this number is between 0.50 and 0.59, it is conditionally slip resistant. Below 0.50, a tile’s slip resistance becomes questionable, meaning it is most likely not the best choice for flooring.
  • Resistance to Scratches, Chemicals & Stains – Since this material readily resists stains, scratches, acids, dirt, dust and common household chemicals, ceramic tile is known for being a breeze to maintain. A top contender for kitchen and bathroom projects, this material will retain a beautiful appearance for years to come, so long as it is cleaned regularly. However, textured tile can be a bit more intensive to maintain, as it traps more dust & debris than smoother ceramic varieties.

Explore Top-Quality Tile Products with Cosmos Surfaces

Now that we’ve given you a crash course in ceramic tile properties, you may be eager to browse gorgeous, durable tile and other splendid options suited to your specific application. When you work with Cosmos Surfaces, you’re sure to find an amazing surfacing material that fulfills your needs and aesthetic goals! If you’d like professional assistance and suggestions for your project, reach out to our experts today.

Color of the Month: Ash

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-3802, Ash! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Solid and strong, eternally timeless Ash conveys a message of longevity.”

Clean, beautiful, and cool – Vento Cinza is the smooth white of an undisturbed icy tundra. Upon a closer look, you’ll see beautifully subtle lines of crystalline silver in this Brazilian quartzite. Vento Cinza is simple in both color and texture, but that doesn’t make it any less striking. It looks great in any space as a countertop, floor, wall, or table. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Your Guide for How to Choose Countertop Material

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

showroom

There are many great natural stone and engineered surfacing materials to choose from – each with their own properties, maintenance requirements and aesthetic appeal. In this post, Cosmos Surfaces provides guidelines on how to choose countertop material to fit your needs and your budget. Here are some of the factors you should take into consideration when making your choice:

Finishes

One of the first things you think about when choosing a countertop is the appearance. The finish applied to a stone surface can alter its overall visual effect. There seems to be a trend among homeowners to opt for a leathered finish, which adds texture to the surface. When it comes to light-colored surfaces, like white countertops, a honed or leathered finish can help disguise etch marks.

It’s important to note that not all types of stone can accept all types of finishes. If you have your eye on a particular style of finish, you’ll want to make sure the stone you decide can accept it. Our post on everything you need to know about stone finishes provides an in-depth look at the properties of each type of finish.

Porosity

One of the biggest considerations when choosing a kitchen or bathroom countertop material is porosity. This will significantly impact the maintenance required, as some porous stones/surfaces need to be sealed regularly to prevent stains and damage. Marble is an example of a porous stone that requires that bit of extra attention to keep it looking gorgeous. With the right care and maintenance, marble can last for generations – but it might not be the right surface for you if you want to avoid sealing. Take a look at our detailed post on how to care for marble for more information on this gorgeous natural stone.

On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find surfaces like quartz countertops – engineered stone containing minerals along with binders and fillers. Quartz countertops are completely non-porous and do not require sealing, which makes them easy to maintain. They come in a wide variety of styles and colors and can even mimic real marble very closely. Our post on how to clean quartz surfaces explores its properties and the maintenance required.

showroom 2

Durability

The durability of a surface is a huge factor in an area like the kitchen, where everyday wear and tear is inevitable. Busy families might want to consider natural stones known for a combination of durability and low maintenance. Granite and quartzite are both great options here, as these materials balance beauty, durability and relatively low maintenance requirements. This post on granite and its uses provides more information on the stone’s qualities, while our post on quartzite maintenance covers cleaning, sealing and stain removal.

Budget

At the end of the day, your budget will definitely impact your decision. It’s important to note many factors go into the cost of a surface material. There might be decisions you can make along the production process that impact the final price tag. Marble, for example, is a natural stone some might consider outside of their budget. However, there are different types of marble that vary in price. Factors like where the marble is quarried, the rarity and demand for the stone, the finish applied and details like edge profiling can all add to or subtract from the final cost. If you have your heart set on a type of stone, but you are concerned about the limits of your budget, work with a professional to find out whether there are alternatives to the product of choice or if any adjustments can be made to suit your budgetary needs.

showroom 3

Why Natural Stone?

Speaking of budget, you might wonder why homeowners would opt for natural stone surfaces when manmade alternatives are available, often at lower costs. This, too, is a multifaceted topic. While these materials may have a lower initial cost, they sometimes cannot stand up to the durability of natural stone surfaces. You can think of natural stone as a long-term investment. With proper care and maintenance, these surfaces can last for generations, while manmade alternatives may need to be replaced within the same period of time.

In addition to durability, a natural stone surface has the appeal of being completely unique. These stones are the result of the Earth’s natural geological processes – no two slabs are exactly alike. Some stones are the result of a powerful, violent event, like the eruption of a volcano, while others formed across millions of years of heat and pressure below the surface of the Earth. Natural stone surfaces are abundant in unique, striking details. They often contain patterns or vibrant splashes of color that tell the story of its formation, and the minerals contained within.

Wondering How to Choose Countertop Material? Work with Cosmos!

If you have more questions about how to choose countertop material, reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today. We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our team of experts is always happy to help!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Rich browns and deep silvers make up the quartzite known as Sandalus. Sandalus has a leathered finish that brings out the subtle layers that give this material a rugged appearance. Perfect among wood, leather, and silver, Sandalus makes a great addition to any exterior space or woodsy aesthetic. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Tile Pattern Ideas and Where to Use Them

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

tile pattern ideas

Gorgeous, functional interior design can elevate any space, but it requires a multi-faceted approach. In this post, we look at popular tile pattern ideas and how they can help you achieve the look you want.

With each element in a room building towards a desired aesthetic, it’s important to consider which materials to use, and how to use them. When it comes to tile backsplash or bathroom and accent walls, the type of tile, its colors and textures and even the grout used can all contribute to bringing a certain look and feel into your home. That said, another crucial step in the decision-making process lies in the tile pattern. That is to say, what kind of layout will help you achieve your design goals and bring out the best qualities in the tile you’ve put thought and care into selecting?

Let’s look at some popular tile patterns and the visual effects they create:

Classic Brick Layout

classic brick

In this pattern, tiles are placed in horizontal rows, and each row is offset by half a tile-width. The resulting long, horizontal lines can have the effect of visually widening a room. This is a timeless layout that never goes out of style and works with any kind of rectangular tile! A brick layout works well in spaces where one simple kind of tile is used, while pairing the tile with a contrasting color grout can help accentuate both the horizontal lines and consistent geometric pattern throughout.

Vertical Brick

This pattern is the same as the classic brick pattern mentioned above, just rotated vertically. With this layout, the vertical lines lead the eye upward, creating a sense of height. A vertical brick pattern adds a contemporary twist to the classic motif and works well in smaller bathrooms, for example, where one might want to visually lift the ceiling height and create a sense of space.

Mosaic

mosaic

When it comes to interior design, “mosaic” tiles are any small tiles, for example, 1-inch by 1-inch tiles, that repeat in a shape or set of shapes. Countless patterns are available, and mosaic tiles can be used to create complex patterns, or simply add a sense of texture and detail to an area.

The busy nature of mosaic tiles, along with the need to use more grout, makes it a popular choice for accent areas, as opposed to entire walls. The additional grout makes it a less slippery surface when used as a shower floor, while the detail and multi-tonal effects mosaic tiles create also make them a great option to use as backsplash, or to line a niche. Mosaic tiles can be used effectively to balance out larger tiles, creating texture and detail to contrast and compliment simpler, larger tiles.

Stacked

stacked

In a stacked pattern, tiles are aligned in a simple, repeating grid. This layout creates a modern look and feel, and its simplistic nature has a calm, soothing effect. Stacked patterns work well in modern spaces where clean shapes and straight lines reign supreme, while also creating an effective counterpoint to organic forms, such as natural wood. Using bright or contrasting grout can help emphasize the simple, geometric pattern.

Large Brick

Similar to the classic brick pattern, a large brick pattern makes use of oversize tiles. In this case, the pattern helps create a more seamless effect of continuous tiles by minimizing the amount of visible grout lines. Using rich stone tiles and color-matching grout can truly create the appearance of a large, unbroken area of the tile.

Solid Slabs

Rather than using smaller tiles laid out in a pattern, it’s possible to use a single, large slab of material for, as an example, a contemporary kitchen backsplash. Large slabs can even be cut to create matching backsplash and kitchen counters in smaller kitchens. Solid slabs help create an open, spacious look and can be used effectively to create seamless walls.

Herringbone

herringbone

A herringbone pattern creates a zig-zag formation by laying tiles at right angles to each other. This layout works beautifully on accent walls, bringing a sense of dynamic visual energy into a space. The complexity of the grout lines created by this pattern plays well against simple tiles, such as white tiles. A herringbone pattern can also be integrated into a section of a larger wall or backsplash, creating a focal point within a simpler surrounding brick pattern, for example. It’s important to note this pattern does require the cutting of tiles as it approaches borders, which can create some amount of tile waste.

Accent Borders

A strip of accent tiles along a border or set to interrupt a simple pattern along a certain point of a wall can help create visual interest. Additionally, if you are tiling a full wall or section of a wall, you might find that the tiles don’t perfectly fit the height of the space. Rather than cutting the border row of tiles to fit, the difference can be made up by using smaller tiles as an accent border, or as a stripe that interrupts the pattern, allowing larger tiles to fit perfectly into the space.

Conclusion

We’ve covered some of the most popular tile patterns you can use to great effect, but this is by no means an exhaustive list! If you have questions about tiling or other surface materials, get in touch with Cosmos! We offer a wide selection of products, and our blog provides information on materials, cleaning and maintenance and design tips!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Exuding strength, mystery, and daring, Titanium is a striking type of granite fit for the bold. Originating in Brazil, and also known as Cosmic Black, the black backdrop with swirls and waves of silver and gold make titanium an alluring and captivating material for any kitchen countertop, fireplace tiling, and bathroom flooring.

Future-proofing Your Investment: To Do and Not To Do

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

future proof

When it comes to natural stone care and maintenance, regular attention goes a long way. A natural stone surface is an investment that can last for many years. If properly cared for, it can last for generations! In this post, we look at what you can do to future-proof your investment, and what to avoid.

Natural stone can be classified as either siliceous stone, or calcareous stone. It’s important to know which category your stone surfaces fall under, as each requires its own approach to cleaning and maintenance.

Siliceous Stone

Stone in this category is mainly composed of silica or quartz-like particles. Siliceous stone types include granite and quartzite. These stones tend to be durable and easy-to-clean with mild, acidic solutions.

Calcareous Stone

Stone in this category is mainly composed of calcium carbonate. Marble, limestone and onyx are all calcareous stone types and require a different approach to cleaning than siliceous stone types. Notably, they are sensitive to acidic cleaning products.

Aside from understanding which category your stone surface falls under, there’s plenty you can do for all types of surfaces to protect your investment from the wear and tear of daily life. Let’s take a look:

DO:

  • Do know what type of stone you have
  • Do clean spills immediately
  • Do seal stone when needed
  • Do use coasters and placemats
  • Do use trivets and cooling racks
  • Do place non-slip mats and area rugs on stone flooring
  • Do clean frequently with mild detergent or appropriate stone soap
  • Do rinse with clean water and dry your surfaces thoroughly after cleaning
  • Do consult with manufacturers for proper care instructions

DON’T:

  • Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice or acidic cleaners on calcareous stone like marble, limestone or onyx
  • Don’t use abrasive cleaners
  • Don’t use acidic cleaners such as tub and tile cleaners, bathroom cleaners or grout cleaners on natural stone
  • Don’t place hot pots, pans, trays or plates directly on stone
  • Don’t allow water to collect on the surface for long periods of time
  • Don’t mix bleach and ammonia when cleaning (this creates a toxic, lethal gas)
  • Don’t mix chemical cleaners unless instructed to do so by the product directions
  • Don’t use an old vacuum on stone surfaces, or even a new model without extreme caution – a vacuum’s attachments or wheels can scratch stone flooring

Next, let’s look at general cleaning guidelines for countertops, floors, bathrooms/wet areas, and outdoor surfaces:

Countertops

Clean countertops regularly with a few drops of mild detergent, appropriate stone cleaner or a neutral cleaner and warm water. It’s best to use a soft cloth and stay away from scouring powders and creams, as these contain abrasives. Keep in mind that acidic food and drinks can etch and dull the surface of calcareous stone types. Take extra care when working with such food and drink, and blot spills up immediately.

Flooring

When it comes to natural stone flooring, trekked-in dirt, sand and grit can damage your surface with scratches. You can minimize these effects by placing non-slip mats and rugs near entrances to catch outdoor debris. Carpeted runners that extend from each outside door into the home can aid in cleaning and drying foot soles before they reach stone flooring. For outdoor flooring, be sure to remove standing water, ice or snow as soon as possible.

To clean flooring, dust mop floors frequently using a dry dust mop. Wash floors with clean water and appropriate neutral cleaners, then rinse thoroughly, dry floors with a soft cloth and allow to air dry completely before resuming use.

Bathrooms and Wet Areas

Soap scum tends to accumulate in these areas and can be removed with a squeegee and non-acidic soap scum remover. A solution of ammonia and water can also be used, but keep in mind that using ammonia frequently can dull the surface.

Outdoor Pool and Patio Areas

Flush these areas with clean water to get rid of dust and debris. A mild bleach solution can be used to remove algae or moss growth, but it’s important to ensure you can use bleach on your type of stone. When in doubt, always check with your manufacturer or supplier!

Natural Stone Care and Maintenance: Conclusion

Take good care of your natural stone surfaces and they will reward you with generations of elegance and beauty. For more cleaning and maintenance tips, take a look at these posts from our blog:

If you have any questions about the care and maintenance of natural stone, reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our team of experts is always happy to answer questions about future-proofing your beautiful investments.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Java Blue - Blue Quartzite 4

Java Blue is a compilation of several blues and soft crystal colors. Primarily a calming light blue, Java Blue is cut through with streaks and spots of navy and gold. Upon closer inspection, the crystals are apparent and beautiful. Java Blue is great for aquatic environments and looks great poolside as a fountain, waterfall, or exterior countertop. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched

DIY Grout Sealing and Maintenance

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

diy grout sealing

Last week, we talked about sealing natural stone. This week, we’re talking about sealing the grout that surrounds it! We provide our best tips on how to apply grout sealer to keep the grout around your wall and floor tiles looking fresh and new – not to mention the added bonus of making cleaning a breeze.

Does Grout Really Need to be Sealed?

Grout seals the joints between tiles like wall or floor tiles, or the backsplash often found in kitchens and bathrooms. It typically consists of a mixture of water, cement and sand, which results in a porous material, prone to absorbing grease, oils and water. This can lead to damage and discoloration over time, which can detract from the look of your tiles, no matter how diligently you clean them.

Sealing grout, and re-sealing as needed, prevents it from soaking up moisture and taking on stains. It can also make the difference between a cleaning routine that requires vigorous scrubbing, and one that simply requires wiping the surface down.

Prepare Grout for Sealing

Before applying sealer, you’ll want to ensure you’ve cleaned the surface thoroughly and repaired any cracks or chips in the grout lines. To clean, scrub grout lines with a toothbrush and soapy water, or use a 50-50 vinegar and warm water solution to tackle stains. Allow the surface to dry for at least 45 minutes before sealing.

Choosing a Sealer

Choosing an appropriate sealer depends on the type of tile and its location. The amount of moisture a sealer can tolerate will also factor in. If sealer is being applied in a high moisture area, like a shower, you’ll want to choose a sealer that can tolerate high levels of moisture. Carefully read labels to ensure a sealer is safe and appropriate to use on the tiles in your space, or contact a manufacturer for guidance.

Sealers generally come in two categories: penetrating sealers, and membrane-forming sealers:

  • Penetrating Sealers: These sealers penetrate the grout, filling in gaps to keep moisture out. Penetrating sealers work well in high moisture areas like bathrooms, making them an excellent choice for showers.
  • Membrane-forming Sealers: These sealers form a protective film or coating on the surface to resist water penetration. While they work well in the kitchen, they are not recommended for use in very high moisture areas, as water can become trapped under the surface and lead to mildew. Membrane-forming sealers also often feature pigments, which can alter the grout color. It’s important to note that these sealers work on unglazed tile, like stone, but will not adhere to glazed tiles, like most ceramics.

Sealer Applicators

While aerosol spray-on sealers are both common and convenient, they may not always be best suited to your situation. For a surface with unsealed tiles and thin grout lines, using a sponge makes it easy to seal large areas by wiping over both surfaces. In situations where you are sealing grout between glazed tiles (to which the sealer won’t adhere), you’ll want to use an applicator brush or specialty applicator bottle to only seal the grout lines.

How to Apply Grout Sealer

  • Apply sealer methodically, working in small areas at a time and moving from one end to the other, such as from left to right, to ensure consistency.
  • Use a dry cloth to wipe off excess sealer, removing it from the tile before it dries. Sealer can leave a foggy film on tiles which can be difficult to remove once dry. Carefully read product labels or consult a manufacturer to ensure that your tiles are protected.
  • Allow the first coat to dry for at least an hour before applying a second coat. It generally takes up to three coats to ensure protection. You can test your grout by applying a few drops of water. If the water beads up on the surface, the sealer is doing its job. If not, repeat the process.
  • Allow the space to dry completely before use. Some sealers can take up to 48 hours to cure, so be sure to check the product label or consult a manufacturer for appropriate curing times.
  • Re-seal grout as needed. This can vary based on factors like the location of the tiles and grout, the level of moisture present and the brand of sealer used.
  • Once grout has been sealed, cleaning can be as simple as wiping down the surface with soapy water (or a cleaner that is safe to use on your tile) as needed.

We hope you find this guide on how to apply grout sealer helpful! Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, meaningful customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of products and resources to assist our customers with their surface material needs.  Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

The blue-gray background and thick, crystalline bands of white resemble a wintry wood in the type of quartzite we’ve dubbed Cassini. Also known as Vogue Blue or Paramount, Cassini paints a striking scene. Cassini is a cool and boldly unique choice for any modern space, including kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Ceramic vs. Porcelain: What’s the Difference?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

ceramic vs porcelain

Both porcelain and ceramic tile are in high demand for contemporary kitchen and bathroom renovation projects. Considering how similar they are in appearance – and the fact that their uses often overlap – it’s no wonder why many people use the terms “ceramic” and “porcelain” interchangeably when describing tile. However, it’s important to note that each surfacing material has its own distinct characteristics. This can make one more suitable than the other for certain projects. So, what is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tile? Cosmos Surfaces is here to explain everything that sets the two apart, once and for all.

What Is the Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tile?

To understand what makes ceramic and porcelain dissimilar, it’s only logical to start with the materials and methods used to construct them. While ceramic is made from various colors of clay, porcelain consists of a combination of white clay, feldspar and sand. Another important difference: higher temperatures are used to fire porcelain than ceramic.

These differences in how the surfacing materials are made end up influencing their properties. In their final forms, here are the main areas in which ceramic and porcelain differ:

  • Density & Porosity – Owing to the materials and high temperatures used to make it, porcelain tile is more dense and hardwearing than ceramic. It is also less porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb as much water.
  • Ease of Use – The downside of porcelain’s higher density is that it can be more difficult to work with. In addition, some homeowners may perceive it as being a bit too hard to the touch. Ceramic is softer and easier to cut/shape, while still being impressively durable.
  • Cost – Generally speaking, ceramic tile tends to be more affordable than porcelain. This could give ceramic an edge over porcelain for larger projects and renovations on a budget.
  • Design Options – Both ceramic and porcelain tile come in a range of breathtaking styles. But if you’re looking for a more intricate and unique design, you might have better luck finding it in ceramic. Ultimately, it comes down to what you prefer.
  • Suitability for Interior/Exterior Projects – The higher density of porcelain makes it a favorable choice for projects both inside and outside of the home. On the other hand, ceramic tile is approved for interior use only.

Choosing the Right Type of Tile for Your Project

Hopefully, you now feel clear on the answer to “what is the difference between porcelain and ceramic?” As you can see, finding the right type of tile for your project means considering numerous factors, including your application, style preferences and budget. Let’s summarize where porcelain and ceramic tiles are best used:

  • Porcelain is durable enough to be installed both indoors and out. It is capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic in applications like residential or commercial flooring. Furthermore, it performs well in environments with high moisture and some are even rated to be frost proof, making it a standout choice for shower walls and floors, countertops, exterior wall cladding and more.
  • Ceramic is suitable for interior walls, backsplashes and floors that receive low foot traffic. Typically more cost effective and easier to work with than porcelain, it is a resilient and budget-friendly material that’s available in an endless variety of stunning styles.

One important benefit of both materials: whether you choose ceramic or porcelain tile for your project, you will enjoy easy maintenance. Consult our guide to cleaning porcelain tile to learn how to keep tile surfaces in the kitchen or bathroom pristine. The recommended upkeep for ceramic tile is very similar! Once you’ve chosen your tiles, you can also find helpful advice on choosing the right tile grout color on our blog.

Count On Cosmos Surfaces for Durable & Delightful Porcelain Tile

Cosmos Surfaces is proud to provide an extensive array of surfacing options, including our OPULITH large format porcelain tile collection. Our remarkable selection has something for every taste and design project. Those who wish to invite luxury into their home might consider Taj Mahal, an iridescent champagne porcelain that entrances and intrigues.

Our highly trained team members are standing by, ready to assist you on your quest for the ideal surfacing material to complete your project. Known for our exceptional customer service and competitive pricing, Cosmos Surfaces is dedicated to helping you make your design dreams a reality. To request professional assistance from our industry experts, reach out to us today.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Azul Bahia is a type of granite which takes its name from the place where it is sourced — the state of Bahia, Brazil. With veins of sparkling white, black and gray interspersed between the azure, this beautiful polished stone seems otherworldly. Use Blue Bahia to add a breathtaking pop of color to fireplaces, countertops, showers, floors and other surfaces.

A Designer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Porcelain Tile Grout Colors

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

designers guide porcelain

Porcelain tile is a terrific choice for a wide range of projects in the kitchen and bathroom. A low-maintenance surfacing material that ranks high on the style scale, porcelain tile is available in a broad selection of colors and styles. Whether you’d like to add pizzazz to your bathroom floor with hexagonal tile or refresh your kitchen with a subway tile backsplash, you’ll need to choose a color for your tile and the surrounding grout. So, how should you go about narrowing down your options for tile grout colors to land on one that suits your application and room aesthetics? The design experts at Cosmos Surfaces are here to share a few must-know guidelines to help you make a winning choice.

Why Do Tile Grout Colors Matter?

Before we dive into our pro tips for finding your ideal shade among the many available tile grout colors, we’d first like to emphasize why this choice is so important. While it may seem relatively insignificant, the shade you select for your tile grout will actually play a major role in how the finished product turns out. Regardless of application, taking a thoughtful approach to choosing your grout color is key to ensure you are totally satisfied with the look of your completed tile installation.

Selecting a Complementary Grout Color for Your Porcelain Tile Installation

While there are no set-in-stone rules when it comes to picking out tile grout colors, following some general guidelines can help you achieve your desired look – and make a decision you’ll be happy with for years to come. Without further ado, let’s explore some tips and tricks for selecting a grout color that pairs beautifully with your porcelain tile choice:

Think about your desired design effect

To start, decide what you aim to accomplish in your design scheme. Are you looking to make a bold statement, or does a more traditional look appeal to you? If your goal is to highlight the shape of your tile and make your design stand out, choosing a contrasting grout color will best achieve this goal. A lighter grout will make dark tile pop, and vice versa. If you desire a more unified look, opt for a grout color that closely matches the tile. Don’t worry about finding an exact match, though – a shade that’s a bit lighter or darker than your tile will pull everything together nicely.

Be prepared for possible color variation

Keep in mind that grout powders like tiles are made in batches and can vary slightly from batch to batch. The grout color will also change slightly when water or other components are added during installation and when a sealer is applied to the grout post installation. A tile professional can offer advice on what to expect for  normal color variation of your grout during and post installation, given the type of grout. They can also show you grout samples to help you envision how different tile grout colors will look in your design setting. Remember to factor in slight color variations from grout samples to the actual grout as well.

Consider your application

While porcelain tile is known for its outstanding resilience, the grout which outlines the individual tiles can darken over time – especially when used for high-traffic applications such as flooring. With this in mind, it’s wise to choose a darker grout to begin with if installing tile in an area that gets frequent use.

As you compare tile grout colors, keep these expert tips in mind – but remember there’s no right or wrong choice! Ultimately, the best selection for your project will depend on your personal taste and what effect you are hoping to evoke with your tile design.

Look to Cosmos Surfaces for Personalized Assistance

When planning a project that incorporates tile, there is plenty of inspiration to be found online. Browse our porcelain tile archives to see examples of how you might combine tile with various grout colors to enhance your kitchen or bathroom design.

Among the elegant porcelain tile options available from Cosmos Surfaces is Apilar White, a stunning bright white porcelain with vertical gray veining. As you’ll see in our photo gallery, both light and dark grout can complement this versatile tile selection, depending on the surrounding design elements and the desired aesthetic.

With a reputation for providing exceptional customer service and top-quality porcelain products, Cosmos Surfaces is dedicated to helping you make your porcelain tile project a success. Our knowledgeable team members are here to assist you every step of the way, from choosing a compatible tile grout shade to obtaining beautiful, long-lasting porcelain for your project. If you’re ready to get started, reach out to us today!

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

On Kamarica granite, sea foam green, rust orange, soft ivory and space gray swirl and twirl with one another to produce magical shapes. Bold yet sophisticated, this exotic, naturally occurring Brazilian stone is an awe-inspiring choice that works well for countertops, backsplashes, window sills, walls and many other interior design projects.

Ceramic Tile: Pros and Cons for Kitchen and Bathroom Use

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

ceramic tile pros and cons

For kitchen and bathroom applications of all sorts, ceramic tile is an easily maintained option that never goes out of style. But as with any surfacing material, it has both benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we outline the most important ceramic tile pros and cons to be aware of when considering this material for your renovation project.

Ceramic Tile: Pros and Cons for Kitchen and Bathroom Use

Your search for the perfect surfacing material will likely lead you to contemplate a variety of options, from marble to quartz to ceramic tile. Here are a few advantages of ceramic tile in particular:

  • Resists Moisture & Cracking – Thanks to its density, ceramic isn’t likely to crack or chip very easily. Plus, its glazed surface provides a reliable barrier against moisture and stains. All in all, its durability makes it a wonderful choice for projects throughout the home, from behind the kitchen sink to lining your shower walls. Be sure to check the absorption rate of the tiles or ask for suitability in your application if you are not sure.
  • Doesn’t Hold Germs or Bacteria – For any project in the kitchen or bathroom, you’ll want to choose a material which is highly hygienic. Ceramic tile definitely ticks this box, as its hard surface cannot be easily penetrated by bacteria. Simply mop or wipe down ceramic tile with an all-purpose cleaner to disinfect and get rid of any germs on its surface. Making sure that the grout around the tiles is properly sealed will also aid in keeping the germs from penetrating the surface.
  • Comes in a Massive Range of Styles – Looking for a modern backsplash to accent your bright kitchen or a unique floor to upgrade your bathroom? You’ll have no problem finding a variety of ceramic tile colors, shapes and styles that are perfectly suited to your project!

To make an informed decision, it’s important to note both ceramic tile pros and cons. So, here are a few things which some consider to be less than ideal about this surfacing material:

  • Needs to Be Sealed – Depending on the type of tile you choose, to create the nonporous surface which makes an unglazed ceramic tile impervious to liquid and germs, it must be sealed. While many ceramic tile products come with the protective sealant or a glaze already applied, keep in mind that some require sealing after installation.
  • Grout Sealing & Maintenance: While you may pick a tile that is impervious, selecting the right kind of grout is also very important. If you are to go with unsealed grout, it will need to be sealed after application to protect it from staining and coloring. Choosing pre-sealed grout is a good way to overcome this issue.
  • Tends to Feel Hard & Cold – While the hardness of ceramic is an asset for several reasons, its density can also make it feel hard and cold – especially in the winter months. For this reason, some homeowners prefer a softer material such as quartz.

Cosmos Surfaces Provides Tile Products for a Range of Applications

Now that you are well versed in ceramic tile pros and cons, perhaps you’d like to learn about the selection of high-quality tile products and other stylish materials from Cosmos Surfaces. No matter what your wish list includes, our experts are here to help you find a surfacing material that has it all. Contact us today for professional assistance!

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

The longer you look, the more the quartzite named Mirage seems to change. Primarily a rich brownish red, Mirage is composed of subtle flecks and waves of various complementary colors, from white to silver to black to gold. Mirage is a bold choice for fireplaces and fountains, where the elements add to its mystique. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Clean Porcelain Tile

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

how to clean porcelain tile

If you’re looking to redo your living room, bathroom or kitchen, you’ll need to consider what type of material to use for your countertop,  showers, and other surfaces. Porcelain tile is becoming increasingly popular as a high-quality material for showers and countertops, and for good reason. Here is a handy guide from Cosmos Surfaces on everything you need to know about porcelain tile, including what sets it apart from other materials, why it’s so low maintenance, and how to clean porcelain tile so that it stays beautiful throughout the years.

Advantages of Using Porcelain Tile in Bathrooms and Kitchens

You can’t go wrong with porcelain tile for floors, showers, countertops, and exterior surfaces. Here are a few reasons why porcelain tile steals the show:

  • Porcelain tile is a beautiful low-maintenance alternative to granite or marble. Advanced manufacturing technology allows for porcelain tile to mimic the appearance of natural marble, like our Sicily White porcelain. The color options for porcelain are growing all the time.

sicily white

  • Porcelain fits with a variety of aesthetics, from modern to classical to minimalistic.
  • Porcelain tile is heat, scratch, and chip-resistant.
  • The nonporous nature of porcelain means the material doesn’t require sealing, which can cut costs and makes it easy to care for over time.
  • Porcelain is highly resistant to wear and tear in the long term. That’s why it is great for bathrooms and kitchens, which are used often by every member of the family.
  • Porcelain tiles are also very dense, making them resistant to stains and a perfect material to withstand constant contact with water, food, beauty and makeup materials, toothpaste, heat, and more.
  • The large size of these porcelain slabs also reduces the number of grout lines we see, thus making the surface more aesthetically appealing.
  • Lastly, porcelain is extremely low maintenance and easy to clean. Porcelain tiles resist stains, keeping the daily upkeep to a minimum. It is highly durable and not easily damaged. It’s also easy to find resources for how to clean porcelain tile, including our step-by-step guide below and more tips in the FAQs and Resources Sections.

How to Clean Porcelain Tile Like the Pros

One of the greatest benefits of installing porcelain tile in a bathroom or kitchen is that it’s so easy to keep clean. The more often you clean it, the longer it will last and the nicer it will look. Only a couple of minutes per day are required to keep your porcelain shining. Here’s our guide for how to clean porcelain tile:

  • Daily Cleaning: Daily upkeep for porcelain isn’t complicated or time-consuming. To keep your porcelain in tip-top shape and make it easier when you deep clean it once in a while, simply rinse your porcelain off after using it or wipe it down with a gentle sponge. It’s best not to let soap residue, toothpaste, food spills, or anything else sit for too long.

Giving your sink a quick rinse after brushing your teeth or using a mild daily shower spray will eliminate frequent deep cleaning and keep your porcelain always looking its best. Avoid keeping items on porcelain that will rust or leave residue, like metal rings and jewelry.

  • Weekly Cleaning: Just once a week, wipe down your porcelain more thoroughly with a sponge or washcloth. Using a simple cleaning spray will sufficiently clean any bacteria, germs, and buildup that amassed over the course of a week. This will help maximize the beauty and life of your porcelain, especially if you skip daily upkeep sometimes.
  • Monthly Cleaning: Once a month or so, it’s best to do a more thorough deep clean. This is where you get into every nook and cranny. With regular upkeep, the deep clean should be very quick and easy. A magic eraser and diluted white vinegar are great tools to use when deep cleaning porcelain. If you do encounter a stain on white porcelain, you can use diluted bleach with CIF cream or Mr. Muscle. Just make sure you rinse your porcelain with lots of water afterwards.

Install Beautiful Porcelain Tile Today

Cosmos Surfaces highly recommends porcelain tile in bathrooms and kitchens. That’s why we launched our new large format porcelain collection, OPULITH. Including styles that are great for countertops and bathroom walls, such as the striking Roman Grey, OPULITH from Cosmos Surfaces gives you plenty of options when it comes to designing your dream space.

roman grey

At Cosmos, our goal is to provide our customers with superior quality products at competitive prices and unparalleled service. Quality and Service are given the highest regard in every decision we make. Our founding principles combined with our highly trained and capable team members have helped us become one of the leading distributors in the industry. Contact us today to speak with a member of our team.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

ora caravelas

Ora Caravelas is a complex yellow and blue granite with a stunningly textured pattern. This exotic Brazilian granite is polished to a high shine and makes an eye-catching choice for any indoor or outdoor application.

How to Clean a Composite Sink: Tips from Cosmos Surfaces

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

Made from granite stone dust mixed with acrylic resins, granite composite sinks are highly durable, stylish and affordable. But just like any type of sink, composite granite requires regular TLC to keep it clean and gorgeous. In this week’s blog, Cosmos Surfaces offers a few helpful pointers for how to clean a composite sink.

How to Clean a Composite Sink Like a Pro

  • Everyday Cleaning – To sanitize and prevent stains, we recommend gently scrubbing your composite sink with a soft nylon brush and soapy water on a daily basis. Once you’ve done so, be sure to rinse the sink thoroughly with regular water and then towel dry to avoid spots on the finish.
  • Deep Cleaning – If you start to notice stains or a cloudy finish, it’s time to mix up a gentle solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, or create a paste using baking soda and a few drops of water. Apply the homemade cleaning agent of your choice to your composite sink, focusing on any areas that are stained or dull looking. Then, simply rinse and wipe dry for a revitalized sink!
  • Lifting Stubborn Stains – If stains linger after using the above method, try using a stronger solution of equal parts bleach and water. Once again, rinse and dry the sink thoroughly after cleaning. This should take care of even the toughest stains.

While composite sinks are quite resistant to stains and scratches, it’s important to note that they can be damaged by harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbing devices. Stick to these guidelines for how to clean a composite sink, and you will easily preserve the beauty of your sink while extending its lifespan.

Find the Sink of Your Dreams at Cosmos Surfaces

Composite sinks are an attractive and easy-to-maintain option for any kitchen or bathroom. The Vortex 50/50 Double Bowl Composite Sink might be the one for you if you’re a fan of spacious, stain-resistant sinks with a sleek black finish. Vortex sinks are quite possibly the toughest sinks on the market, with 3/8th” thick walls and increased center support.

Vortex 50:50 Double Bowl Sink - Composite Sink

Or, you might prefer one of the several types of stainless steel sinks we offer. For example, the stunning Windsor L is a classic,  brushed stainless steel sink that will work in any style of kitchen.

Windsor L Sink - Stainless Steel Sink

No matter what type of sink you’re shopping for, you can find a wide variety of high-quality, beautiful products at Cosmos Surfaces.

To browse our full selection of sinks and locate the ideal product for your project, click over to the product section of our website. We are committed to delivering the very best customer service and expert advice, whether you’re buying for a residential or commercial project. Please feel free to reach out to us if you’d like personalized assistance from a member of our team!

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

With a trademark pattern reminiscent of a jaguar’s magnificent spotted coat, Jaguar is a fierce granite from Brazil. Moderately varied, its coloring darts from copper to beige to brown, with black dots in between. Sleek and mesmerizing as the big cat after which it is named, Jaguar is an enthralling choice for countertops, vanity tops, table tops, bar tops and more.

Why Are Porcelains a Trending Choice for Kitchen Countertops?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

Taj Mahal - Champaign Porcelain - Kitchen Floor

There are many qualities you’ll want to look for in a kitchen countertop. First and foremost, it’s important for the counter to be resilient so that it will last for years to come. At the same time, you want something that reflects your personal style and complements the rest of your design scheme. In recent years, porcelain has become a popular choice among homeowners seeking exceptional style and function from their kitchen countertops. Cosmos offers premium porcelain slabs for kitchen countertops and more in many different colors and styles, under our brand new Large Format Porcelain Tile Collection – Opulith.

Why Consider Porcelain for Your Kitchen Countertop?

When comparing kitchen countertop materials, you may find yourself feeling a bit overwhelmed. To help you decide if porcelain is a good fit for your project, we’re here to break down the benefits this material has to offer:

  • Easy to Maintain – Unlike granite and certain other stones, porcelain doesn’t require polishing or sealing. This means less maintenance work, both at the time of installation and later on.
  • Beautiful & Versatile – Also known as large format tiles, porcelain slabs for kitchen countertops are available in a wide range of patterns, colors and textures. Whether you’re going for a simple or bold look, there’s bound to be a porcelain style that catches your eye. They are also a fantastic choice for backsplashes due to their light weight and thickness.
  • Highly Durable – Porcelain is known as a hard-wearing countertop material for good reason. It is harder than granite and very dense. You can count on porcelain to resist stains, scratches, chips, and even UV light, making it a viable choice for both indoor and outdoor kitchen countertops. It is perfect for high traffic and heavy use areas.
  • Cost – Achieving the sophisticated and elegant look of a Calacatta or quartzite adorned kitchen without breaking the bank has never been easier. These porcelains are economical to purchase, install and maintain.

As you can see, a porcelain kitchen countertop is a stunning, statement-making choice that offers many practical advantages, while embodying elegance and style.

Shopping for a Kitchen Countertop? Reach Out to Cosmos for Expert Assistance

At Cosmos Surfaces, we draw on years of industry experience to help homeowners find the perfect material and style for their kitchen countertops. If you’d like professional, personalized assistance as you search for your ideal kitchen countertop, get in touch with us today! Whether you’re interested in porcelain, granite or another material, you’ll have access to an extensive selection of high-quality, competitively priced options when you work with Cosmos.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

Our Taj Mahal Porcelain is a champagne colored porcelain with fine, soft lines of almost iridescent gold—worth being called one of the world’s seven wonders. The subtle golden hues of this material pairs well with browns, ivories, greys and other neutrals. Use outdoors on an open patio to see how this gorgeous color dances in the sunlight.

Still not convinced about Porcelain? Check out the real deal with our Taj Mahal Quartzite!

Location

West
South East
South East

Our Brands and affiliations

Join Our Community

Get Design Inspiration, Product Knowledge, News and Trend Updates delivered right to your Inbox.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.