The value of stone procurement is increasingly growing in the architecture and construction field. The advent of modern technology like automation and inventory control software have dramatically transformed the role played by stone procurement.
Today, architects and construction project managers need to change the way stone procurement is carried out and stay in line with modern demands to achieve the coveted results.
The path to stone procurement is a vital road to success for any architectural design and construction project. So, let’s get into the details and learn how to choose the best deal with the procurement checklist.
Checklist To Help You With The Right Stone Procurement Solution
A stone procurement checklist is an itinerary to reach the right destination. We have summarised and listed the factors that are necessary for choosing the best quality product at its best price.
1. Shortlisting Stone Companies
To start with, one needs to determine which brand or company fits the demands perfectly. Although this might not be an easy process, following certain guidelines can surely help.
Technology like automation and inventory control software enables us to get a real-time picture of costs involved in the supply, delivery and investment forecast. However, choosing the right marble and granite suppliers is paramount.
First of all, establish the communication link with the supplier and request the best quote and sample as per the application. Direct communication is imperative to establish a good customer-supplier relationship. This will help one understand the benefits that can be availed from the supplier through the procurement process.
Going further into detail, look for the company reputation instead of brand. Investing some time in studying a company’s portfolio including its expertise, experience and different projects it has worked on will answer.
While seeking the best deal, it is recommended to choose a multi-product supplier that can address the stone requirements as per different applications.
Quality Marble Exports (India) is one of those versatile stone product suppliers and manufacturers that understand the demands of diverse construction projects. Our company is recognised worldwide for quality, customised solutions and friendly customer service that adds to our global reputation. We offer high-quality products at competitive pricing while also serving with the timely delivery of supplies. Besides this, we understand the customers’ requirements and ensure that the supplies are delivered on time.
Quality Marble Exports (India) has strived to create a consumer atmosphere that caters to value-added services, user-friendly interface, platform-based services and customised products that appeal to architects and construction project managers with diverse requirements.
2. Playing The Right Colour
Once the stone supplier is decided, the checklist moves further to help in choosing the right stone product.
So, let's begin with the colour. Be it natural or engineered stones, the colour options are huge in variety. The process of stone procurement involves choosing colours that complement the interior elements and furniture. If the stone is for the outdoor area, the colours need to be chosen according to the elements that complement the surroundings and facade of the building both. Explore stone samples, go through colour charts and choose wisely.
Furthermore, when weighing between light and dark colours it is important to consider certain things. Dark coloured stones do not discolour easily but they tend to make the indoor space such as the kitchen appear smaller. On the contrary, lighter variants will make the kitchen appear more spacious, yet these are more susceptible to stains. For large construction projects, it is crucial to maintain consistency within the colour preference.
3. Choosing The Right Texture And Shape
Picking the right textures and shapes to fit the design is another important factor in the stone procurement process.
Texture or the veining pattern of each stone bestows a unique look to any residential or commercial property. Each stone has its own reflection which makes the aesthetics look warm, elegant, rustic or casual.
In terms of shape, natural stones are classified into irregular and pattern-cut. Choosing of shape depends on the design and desired aesthetics. Pattern-cut natural stone which comes either in rectangles or squares is the first choice when consumers prefer a contemporary look. Whereas, the irregular stone gives a natural and earthy feeling to the overall aesthetics.
4. Getting The Stone Finish
The stone surface/finish drives reflection that brings out the colour in it. Stone products like marble tiles and granite tile come in a variety of finishes. Have a look at some of the common finishes available.
- Polished - a polished stone comes with a glossy and shiny surface that enhances the colour effect. This type of finish is usually used in kitchen countertops, kitchen islands, wall cladding, and indoor flooring (be it granite floor tiles or marble flooring).
- Brushed - This type has a weathered surface showing natural wear. This stone is mainly used for designing tabletop and walkways exhibiting a natural appearance.
- Honed - Honed finish stone reflects little light and can give out a flat or satin-like appearance. It is best suited for stair steps, floors, and areas with heavy foot traffic.
- Leathered - This one provides a matte-like finish. The surface is smooth and textured while easy to maintain. The option is good for countertops and bathroom applications.
- Flamed - This finish offers a rough texture with a non-slippery surface fit for outdoor applications.
5. Achieving Installation
Installation of natural stone is a labour-intensive process that requires special skills in certain applications. Hence, it is recommended that the setting is carried out by experienced masonry and landscape construction firms.
The next thing is the different methods used in the installation. This includes the wet-laid method in which the stone is fixed on a concrete platform and the dry-laid method which involves setting the stones on a gravel bed.
Basic Tips To Maintain Stone Quality And Durability
Although this is not a part of the stone procurement process, it essentially counts post-installation. Natural stones are well-known for durability but a little maintenance is always needed to maintain their original look and quality for a lifetime.
But before maintenance, it is essential to consider the application of sealants. Some natural stones require sealing while others don’t. So, it is best to ask the supplier if the sealing process is relevant. A sealant protects the stone surface from spills and stains.
On the owners part, the stone must be kept away from acidic liquids and foods and sharp objects. One can also get the maintenance and cleaning process done by professionals when required.
