Associated Stone & Tile Installers (ASTI) has installed natural stone in Greater Boston homes and businesses since 1972. We set stone tile on floors, walls and showers, and install slab countertops, vanities and fireplace surrounds cut by our sister fabricator, Marble & Granite International. Every stone below has different strengths and care needs.
Jump to: Marble · Granite · Quartzite · Travertine · Slate · Limestone
Marble
Marble is the classic stone for baths, foyers and fireplaces. It is softer than granite and etches with acids, so it is sealed after installation and suits owners who like a surface that develops character. See our marble bathroom project.
Granite
Granite is hard, heat-resistant and stain-resistant once sealed, which makes it a dependable kitchen countertop. We also install granite on vanities, thresholds and floors. See countertop installation.
Quartzite
Quartzite looks like marble but is much harder, so it is popular for countertops, fireplace surrounds and baths. Our brushed Taj Mahal quartzite fireplace is one example.
Travertine
Travertine is a warm, porous limestone used for floors, shower walls and backsplashes. It comes filled or unfilled and in honed, tumbled or polished finishes, and needs sealing.
Slate
Slate has a natural cleft texture that gives grip underfoot, so it is a good choice for mudrooms, entries, sunrooms and fireplace hearths.
Limestone
Limestone has a soft, even color and a quiet look in baths, floors and fireplace surrounds. Like marble, it is softer stone and is sealed after installation.
Marble, granite and quartzite photos
A few recent stone installations by our crews. Click a photo to see it larger, or see more stone photos.
Natural stone FAQs
Does natural stone need sealing?
Most stone does, especially marble, travertine and limestone. We seal stone after installation where the material needs it and can tell you how often to reseal.
Which stone is best for a shower?
Marble, travertine, limestone and slate all work in showers when installed over proper waterproofing and sealed. Honed finishes are less slippery on shower floors.
Who cuts stone slabs?
Marble & Granite International, our sister company in Waltham, fabricates slabs for countertops, vanities and fireplace surrounds.