Natural stone tiles
These include slate, marble and granite. They are durable, easy to care for and are often polished.

Slate
Slate tiles are rigid and need a solid base, although there are special adhesives for laying them on timber floors. Over time, slate can become loose and drummy (hollow-sounding in places). Unsealed slate isn't always easy to clean because its surface is irregular. Sealing brings out its colours and helps repel moisture and stains, but you'll need to recoat regularly.

Marble
Marble tiles are used for entrances and bathrooms. Polished marble scratches and stains easily and loses its polish if acids, such as wine and vinegar, are spilled on it. This usually rules it out for kitchens and dining areas.

Granite
Granite is very hard, resists scratching and needs minimal grouting joints.