Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q.
    Is the price of a stone a factor in quality?

    Not necessarily. The price of a stone notably depends on the quarry’s production capacity and its location. The higher the production, the lower the cost. Some of the most beautiful stones in the world are affordable simply because they are found in abundance.

  • Q.
    Can marble be installed as a kitchen countertop?

    Marble is a stone that can most certainly be installed as a countertop surface. Declined in a variety of colors, each marble slab is unique due to the shape of its veins. Since its appearance can vary, marble is suitable for all styles. Marble is a resistant material but is more delicate than granite. It is the must-have material for those who appreciate the beauty of natural wear over time (also known as patina). Marble must be treated with a quality sealer, such as Lithofin, to minimize stain risks.

  • Q.
    Does Ciot offer exterior facade surfaces?

    Ciot offers state-of-the-art products for exterior covering needs. Different options are available such as ventilated cladding of ceramic or natural stone that are most convenient to cover any residential or commercial building.

    Ventilated cladding is designed with cutting-edge technology. It offers superior soundproofing, better interior climate control, eliminate condensation and much more.

  • Q.
    How do I maintain a tiled surface?

    Certain precautions must be taken to ensure the lasting quality of a tiled floor or wall surface. Tiles and joints must be cleaned often. Maintenance products suitable to the material should be used to avoid surface deterioration.  We recommend avoiding acidic or harsh detergents. The Ciot team can advise you about the best cleaning products to maintain your space according to its materials.

  • Q.
    How frequently should I treat my natural stone surface?

    Each stone has its own degree of absorption and should be treated with a good quality impregnator or a sealer. Depending on the product, application should be done with either a lint-free cloth, a vaporiser or a roller and should be repeated on a regular basis. Specialized cleaning products are recommended in order to avoid damaging the stone. Our Ciot team can guide you in selecting the appropriate product.

  • Q.
    How should I calculate the number of tiles to order?

    To properly evaluate the number of tiles required, you must first measure the surface to cover and establish a layout plan. We also recommend you add an extra 10 to 20 % of material to cover for the waste factor, breaks and cutting errors or to keep a few tiles in case of future repair needs.

  • Q.
    Is the stone’s country of origin an indicator of quality?

    No. Stone is extracted from a natural process. Stone shaping processes and selection methods are what defines a product of high quality. Ciot works only with reputed international manufacturers that share the same quality standards.

  • Q.
    What are the characteristics unique to each type of stone?

    Marble

    In great demand in interior design, marble is used as flooring, wall covering, fireplace mantle or countertop surface. Since its appearance can vary, marble is suitable for all styles. Marble is a resistant material but is more delicate than granite. It is the go-to material for those who appreciate the beauty of natural wear over time (also known as patina). Marble must be treated with a quality impregnator to minimize stain risks such as Lithofin.

    Granite

    Granite is very durable and relatively easy to maintain. Its density, resistance to scratches and durability make it a popular choice for kitchen countertops or for floor coverings. Granite is also often installed in areas where traffic is high.

     

    Quartzite

    Natural quartz is a limpid and delicate stone. It contains the highest percentage of quartz making it more resistant than granite. Clear and vaporous, its color is as beautiful as it is original. Quartzite slabs are recommended for countertops or any furniture.

     

    Engineered Quartz (Caesarstone®)

    Caesarstone surfaces are composed of up to 93% quartz. Quartz is more than beautiful. It is also one of nature’s strongest minerals. Resistant to stains, scratches and cracks, quartz is impervious to common household chemicals. Caesarstone quartz surfaces combine form and function, allowing for the most diverse, durable and practical applications. These surfaces retain the cool, tactile qualities of natural stone, while offering design freedom with almost unlimited application possibilities.

     

    Pyrolithic Stone™ (Geoluxe®)

    Pyrolithic stone™ is an engineered stone in which marble’s natural and reputed beauty and unmatched technical performances meet. Its durability, its ease of maintenance and its low porosity make it ideal for work surfaces such as countertops and vanity tops. Slabs have full-ply veins comparable to those of true marble yet lack in the maintenance inconveniences of it. Furthermore, pyrolytic stone offers excellent heat resistance.

     

    Porcelain

    Porcelain comes in finishes that mimic marble, concrete and metal with surprising realism. Its surface is resistant to heat, UV rays, stains and scratches. This versatile and durable product offers endless possibilities for interior design.

  • Q.
    What can be installed as a backsplash?

    Many options are suitable to use as a backsplash: mosaic, tiles (marble, porcelain, glass), stone slabs and more. Connect with one of our Ciot specialists to learn about your options and their respective benefits.

  • Q.
    What criteria should be considered when purchasing porcelain tiles?

    1. The room in which tiles will be installed
    2. The allocated budget
    3. The type of surface (wall, floor, countertop, etc.) to cover
    4. The degree of maintenance you are looking for
    5. The desired style and color
    6. The surface area to cover

    When selecting materials, style must not be your unique consideration. You must evaluate performance and technical characteristics to make sure the material meets your requirements.

  • Q.
    What is the difference between wall and floor tiles?

    Resistance. Floor tiles are designed to resist impact as well as abrasion while design outshines performance factors in wall tiles. In fact, a wall tile is mostly chosen for the finesse of its details, its luster or its color. To obtain such brilliancy or to create certain motifs on wall tiles, an enamel is often necessary. These enamels are often too delicate for floor application.

  • Q.
    What material is most suitable for exterior installation?

    Resistant and specially adapted to harsh climate conditions, porcelain stoneware is a great option for exterior use. Ciot offers a unique selection of 20 mm porcelain pavers that are perfectly suited for urban terraces and pool perimeters without the use of an adhesive.

    As seen in many European cities, granite and certain limestones may also be suitable for exterior ground application. However, a thickness of 3 cm is necessary in northern areas; this varies depending on local climate and intended application.

    Another aspect you may want to consider for an outdoor ground application is the slip-resistance of the product.

    As per work surfaces, natural stone such as granite is ideal for an exterior application due to its high resistance to heat and frost. Their durability and easy maintenance are what make Pyrolithic stone™ (Geoluxe®) and porcelain a great choice for your outdoor projects.

  • Q.
    Who should install natural stone?

    The installation of natural stone is a most important step in a project’s execution. Look for an experienced and qualified installer to manage the constraints and unforeseen events that could occur along the way.

  • Q.
    Why choose natural stone as a surface?

    Stone is extracted from nature which makes each slab and each tile, one-of-a-kind. Variations in color, markings, veins, minerals and more will give each space a unique feel. Choosing natural stone is truly opting for the elegance and sophistication of a distinguishing product.