Wood Flooring vs Natural Stone Flooring: Make the Right Choice

• It is obtained by using natural wood or solid wood glued to plywood.

• It is a flooring obtained by carving natural stone.

• If properly maintained, wood flooring can last a lifetime or even more.

• Natural stone flooring has more durability as compared to wood flooring.

• It is porous and so water absorption is high. Hence it is not suitable for wet areas like bathrooms.

• Except for granite, all natural stones are porous. Water absorption is less as compared to wood flooring.

• It has low resistance to scratches. So cracks can be easily formed.

• It has more resistance to scratches as compared to wood flooring.

• It has low resistance to stains. It can be easily stained due to oil spillage.

• Natural stone flooring, if not sealed has low resistance to stains.

• It catches fire easily.

• It is fireproof and does not catch fire.

• It is less slippery as compared to natural stone flooring.

• Natural stone flooring is slippery when wet.

• Wood planks experience contraction in winter and expansion in summer, thus expansion joints must be provided.

• Atmospheric changes do not have any effect on natural stone flooring.

• As wood is a natural material, it gives a very natural look. It looks classic with any kind of interior of a home.

• It may be used since ancient times, but some patterns of natural stones give modern look to a home.

• Its installation is relatively easy as compared to natural stone flooring.

• Installation process becomes difficult as stones are heavy and the cutting process takes more time.

• Wood flooring has to be maintained with care.
• It can be cleaned using a vacuum cleaner and with a damp cloth. A Wood cleaner can be used. Cleaning with a wet cloth is not recommended.

• It needs less maintenance as compared to wood flooring.
• Mopping with wet cloth generally, cleans the surface. A Stone cleaner can be used, but cleaners containing acid must be avoided.

• It is used in interior areas like living rooms and bedrooms where warmth is required.
• It is also used as exterior deck flooring.
• It is also used in areas where strong acoustics are required such as auditoriums and dancing halls.
• It is ideal for cold regions, as it creates warmth in the flooring.

• It can be used in any areas either exterior or interior depending on the properties of the stone.
• Kota stone, marble and granite stone are used in kitchen countertop, shelves, door & window frame etc. These stones are also used in flooring.
• Sandstones, slates and limestone are used in the outer area of a home.
• Natural stone can be used as a kitchen flooring, as it can be easily cleaned and is incombustible.
• It is also suitable for high traffic areas as it has more strength.

• Wooden flooring looks classic and traditional and suits with any kind of interior.
• A variety of textures, grades and colors of wood are available for selection.It is timeless and always remains in fashion.
• Wood has more friction, so it provides a firm grip to the feet and therefore helps in better movement than tiles.If you have young kids, wood flooring is safer as compared to tiles.
• It can be easily repaired by sanding, several times over its lifetime.
• It is warm underfoot, so it is preferable in cold climate.
• It is renewable and environment-friendly.

Also Read: Advantages and Disadvantages of wood flooring

• They are strong and more durable.
• Natural stone flooring is available in a variety of designs and patterns.
• Natural stone flooring has less water absorption and if properly sealed is stain resistant.
• It is easy to clean as it has a shiny surface. It can be easily maintained.
• It is ecological and no energy is required for its manufacture. If damaged broken parts can be used in recycling process.
• Natural stone flooring if installed, adds up to the value of the property.

• Wood flooring is very expensive.
• It has high wear and tear because it has a tendency to develop scratches and dents.
• They have to be re-polished periodically in areas of heavy foot traffic, which is costlier.
• They are also prone to termite attack, thus proper care must be taken.
• Wood flooring can be noisy if rugs are not provided. It is not recommended to walk with heels on wood flooring.

• Natural stone flooring has to be sealed frequently. If not sealed, it can be easily stained and scratches can be formed.
• Natural stone is slippery when wet.
• They have low resistance to acid-based cleaners, bleaches, chemicals.
• In cold climate, natural stone flooring is cool underfoot. It does not give warmth in cold climate.

• Depending on the quality of the wood used in the flooring, cost of wood flooring is in range of INR 250 to INR 500 per sq. ft.

• The cost of natural stone flooring comes in a wide range. Depending on the stone, it can costs from INR 50 to INR 400 per sq. ft.