5 Best Types of Stone for Bathroom Walls

Does your bathroom need a makeover? The bathroom is a functional area and a space you’re in multiple times per day. The time you spend there should be pleasant, and when guests visit, you want them to have a good impression. So, why not spruce up the space with some bathroom stone that can be practical, as well as make your bathroom more beautiful?

The best types of stone for bathroom walls include marble, granite, slate, limestone, and quartzite. Stone can be an excellent alternative for bathroom walls, nothing looks as wonderful as real stone in a bathroom. If installed and sealed correctly stone walls in a bathroom can last a very long time.

Let’s look at some of the most popular stones for bathroom walls as well as their pros and cons to help you decide which is right for your bathroom.

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5 Best Types Of Stone For Bathroom Walls

When designing a bathroom, stone walls offer a timeless and luxurious aesthetic. However, choosing the right type of stone is essential for both beauty and functionality.

Some stones excel in moisture resistance, while others shine with their unique textures and finishes. Here’s everything you need to know about the five best types of stone for bathroom walls.

1. Marble: The Epitome of Luxury

Many people have specific ideas about what they want their bathroom to look like. They may have seen a movie and thought, “The perfect bathroom has white walls and a black marble,” or maybe they’re inspired by fashionable celebs who seem to go all out with their bathrooms.

Whatever the case, the biggest mistake most people make when choosing bathroom materials is listening to advice from others (or else being influenced by trends!). Nevertheless, marble is the epitome of luxury. Marble is a smooth stone that doesn’t absorb liquids, making it easy to clean and maintain. It also has a cool touch, which makes it fitting for use in a bathroom.

Naturally beautiful, marble comes in a variety of colors, from neutral gray to white to black and everything in between. If you want something with a little more color, consider using marble tiles with hues of pink and red. You can even go for marble countertops in your shower if you’re feeling fancy.

Of course, there are drawbacks to using marble in your bathroom. Marble can be expensive and difficult to install, especially if you’re going for a traditional look with large slabs of marble on your floor or walls. It’s also heavy so you’ll need some help lifting these pieces into place during installation.

If you have an older home with no modern plumbing updates, then installing marble may not be feasible because these stones require special care when they encounter water (they tend to stain easily). In addition, marble is porous, meaning it absorbs odors such as mildew, as well as bacteria that live inside their pores. That’s why it’s important to seal it regularly.

Pros:

1. Elegant and Luxurious Appearance:
   Marble has a timeless beauty with its natural veining and unique patterns, adding a sense of luxury and sophistication to bathroom walls.
2. Wide Variety of Colors and Patterns:
   Marble comes in various shades, including white, gray, black, green, and pink, allowing for diverse design options to suit different aesthetics.
3. Durability:
   Marble is a long-lasting material that can withstand years of use when properly maintained, making it a solid investment.
4. Natural Light Enhancement:
   Marble’s polished surface reflects light, brightening the bathroom and creating an airy, open feel.
5. Heat Resistance:
   Marble remains cool to the touch and is resistant to heat, making it ideal for warm, humid bathroom environments.
6. Adds Property Value:
   Marble walls can increase the resale value of a home due to their association with high-end design and premium materials.

Cons:

1. High Cost:
   Marble is one of the most expensive natural stones, both in material and installation costs, making it a premium choice.
2. Porosity:
   Marble is highly porous and can absorb moisture, leading to stains, discoloration, and mold growth if not properly sealed and maintained.
3. High Maintenance:
   Requires regular sealing to protect against water damage and stains, along with specific cleaning products to avoid etching from acidic substances.
4. Prone to Scratching and Etching:
   Marble is softer than other stones like granite, making it vulnerable to scratches, etching from acidic cleaners, and damage from heavy impacts.
5. Slippery Surface:
   Polished marble can become slippery when wet, which may pose a safety risk if used on both walls and floors.
6. Color Fading:
   Prolonged exposure to water and moisture can dull marble’s natural shine and cause colors to fade over time without proper care.
7. Weight:
   Marble is a heavy material that may require reinforced wall structures and professional installation, increasing labor costs.

Summary:

Marble is a stunning and luxurious stone for bathroom walls, offering elegance and a high-end look. However, it requires careful maintenance and sealing to prevent water damage and staining. While its cost and upkeep can be significant, the timeless appeal of marble often outweighs these challenges for those seeking a premium, long-lasting design.

Cost: $60 – $150.00 per square foot

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2. Granite: Durable and Low-Maintenance

When most people think of granite, they primarily think of granite countertops. What many don’t realize is that this natural stone can also be used as a beautiful and durable bathroom wall covering.

Granite comes in a variety of colors and textures, depending on where it was quarried. You can also create interest with different shapes and patterns as you lay down the tile.

Granite is resistant to scratches and other forces that would otherwise leave their mark on other materials. In bathrooms, this means you don’t have to worry about damaging the stone. It’s also highly resistant to stains and impervious to water.

Granite is a resilient and durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of a bathroom. The natural stone comes in a wide array of colors, styles, and patterns that can fit the needs of a variety of bathrooms. However, natural granite is porous and requires sealing and resealing. Engineered granite is less porous, making it a better option for a bathroom.

The biggest drawback is cost. Granite is not an inexpensive option. It is best to choose a light-colored granite to reflect the most light possible, making your bathroom appear larger and brighter.

Pros:

1. Exceptional Durability:
   Granite is one of the hardest natural stones, making it highly resistant to scratches, chips, and wear over time.
2. Water Resistance:
   When properly sealed, granite is non-porous and effectively repels water, preventing moisture damage and mold growth in bathroom environments.
3. Low Maintenance:
   Requires minimal upkeep compared to other natural stones. Occasional sealing and simple cleaning with mild soap and water keep it looking new.
4. Wide Range of Colors and Patterns:
   Granite comes in various hues and patterns, from subtle neutrals to bold veining, allowing for versatile design choices.
5. Heat Resistance:
   Granite can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for humid and steamy bathroom environments.
6. Luxurious Aesthetic:
   Adds an elegant and timeless look to bathroom walls, increasing the perceived value of your home.
7. Stain Resistance:
   Properly sealed granite is resistant to staining from bathroom products like soaps, shampoos, or oils.

Cons:

1. High Cost:
   Granite is an expensive material, both in terms of the stone itself and professional installation costs.
2. Heavy Weight:
   Granite is a dense material that requires sturdy wall structures and professional installation, potentially increasing labor and material costs.
3. Cold Surface:
   Granite tends to feel cold to the touch, which might not be ideal in colder climates unless paired with heated elements.
4. Limited Customization:
   Unlike engineered stones, granite’s natural patterns cannot be customized, and matching slabs for large surfaces can be challenging.
5. Requires Sealing:
   Although durable, granite needs periodic sealing to maintain its water resistance and prevent staining over time.
6. Slippery When Polished:
   Polished granite can become slick when wet, posing a potential safety hazard if used on walls in areas prone to water splashes.
7. Environmental Impact:
   The quarrying and transportation of granite can have a significant environmental footprint, which may be a concern for eco-conscious homeowners.

Summary:

Granite is a robust and luxurious stone for bathroom walls, offering exceptional durability, water resistance, and aesthetic appeal. However, its high cost, heavy weight, and the need for periodic sealing may be drawbacks. For those seeking a long-lasting, elegant option with minimal maintenance, granite is an excellent investment.

Cost: $40 to $150 per square foot for granite slabs

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3. Slate: Rugged and Versatile

If you’re planning on remodeling your bathroom, slate is another option for the walls. Unlike other natural stones that can have stains, slate comes naturally in shades of blue and green with a slight texture.

When you install it correctly, it can last for decades and increase the value of your home. Another benefit is the cost of marble and granite.

Slate is one of the most durable and long-lasting types of rock on Earth, but it is also quite porous, which makes it susceptible to absorbing liquids (including water) that can damage its surface.

So, you’ll need to seal it to protect against stains and continue to do so over time. Not only that, but slate is a very hard stone and installing it on floors or walls can be difficult. It may even require hiring a professional to cut and install it properly.

Pros:

1. Natural and Unique Aesthetic:
   Slate offers a rustic and elegant look with its rich, earthy tones and natural textures, adding character and sophistication to bathroom walls.
2. Durability:
   Slate is highly durable and resistant to cracking, chipping, and general wear, making it ideal for long-term use in bathrooms.
3. Water Resistance:
   When properly sealed, slate is naturally water-resistant, making it well-suited for humid environments like bathrooms.
4. Low Maintenance:
   Requires minimal cleaning and maintenance once sealed, needing only occasional resealing to maintain its integrity.
5. Slip Resistance:
   The natural texture of slate provides slip resistance, which can be an added safety feature if used on both walls and floors.
6. Versatility in Design:
   Slate comes in a variety of colors, including shades of gray, black, green, and rust, allowing for diverse design options.
7. Heat Retention:
   Slate has excellent thermal properties, making it a good choice for pairing with underfloor or radiant heating systems.

Cons:

1. Porosity:
   Slate is a porous stone, so it requires sealing to prevent water absorption, stains, and mildew growth in high-moisture areas.
2. High Cost:
   Slate is often more expensive than other natural stones due to its quality and unique appearance.
3. Heavy Material:
   Slate is a dense and heavy stone, which can make installation more challenging and may require reinforced wall structures.
4. Limited Color Range:
   While its natural hues are beautiful, the color palette is more limited compared to stones like marble or quartzite.
5. Prone to Flaking:
   Some lower-quality slate can be prone to flaking or delaminating over time, particularly in areas with high moisture exposure.
6. Difficult to Repair:
   If slate tiles crack or are damaged, replacing them can be challenging due to variations in texture and color between batches.

Summary:

Slate is a durable and visually appealing stone for bathroom walls, offering excellent water resistance and a natural aesthetic. However, it requires sealing, can be costly, and demands a strong structural foundation for installation. Proper maintenance will ensure it remains a stunning feature in your bathroom for years to come.

Cost: $30.00 to $55.00 per square foot

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4. Limestone: Soft and Subtle Elegance

Limestone is a sedimentary rock with a wide range of hardness and porosity, depending on its composition and environment.

Most limestone is made of calcite (calcium carbonate), but some grades of limestone also contain magnesium carbonate, dolomite (also known as dolostone) or oolitic aragonite (both are forms of calcium carbonate).

Limestone is used for construction, cement making and steelmaking, and in the production of toothpaste and paper.

You can find it in shades of white, light beige, gray, and blue. Limestone has a relatively uniform appearance, although it may have slight mottling.

Limestone is strong and resistant to wear, making it an ideal material for bathrooms where water spills can cause stains and damage on surfaces exposed to moisture. But it requires sealing due to how porous it is.

Being softer than other types of stone, you can carve limestone into custom shapes, making it ideal for unique installations like whirlpool surrounds or custom sinks. The softness of limestone also makes it easier to cut to size than other hard stones, so you can install your new shower or vanity quickly without extra work at the job site.

Pros:

1. Natural Aesthetic Appeal:
   Limestone has a soft, earthy look with warm tones, adding a natural, timeless elegance to bathroom spaces.
2. Versatility in Design:
   Available in various finishes, such as honed, polished, or brushed, limestone complements both modern and traditional bathroom styles.
3. Affordable Compared to Other Stones:
   Limestone is generally less expensive than marble or quartzite, making it a cost-effective option for natural stone.
4. Easy to Shape and Install:
   Limestone is relatively soft, which makes it easier to cut and customize for intricate designs or unique bathroom layouts.
5. Decent Durability:
   When properly sealed, limestone can handle moderate wear and moisture exposure, making it a suitable option for bathroom walls.
6. Eco-Friendly Option:
   Limestone is a natural and environmentally friendly material that is biodegradable and sustainably sourced in many cases.

Cons:

1. Porosity:
   Limestone is highly porous, which makes it prone to water absorption, stains, and mildew if not adequately sealed and maintained.
2. Frequent Maintenance Required:
   To prevent staining and water damage, limestone requires regular sealing and proper cleaning with pH-neutral products.
3. Susceptible to Scratches and Erosion:
   Being softer than granite or quartzite, limestone can scratch or erode over time, especially in areas with high humidity or heavy use.
4. Limited Color Options:
   Limestone comes in natural tones like beige, gray, or cream, which may not suit all design preferences.
5. Vulnerability to Acidic Substances:
   Acidic cleaners or products, like vinegar or certain soaps, can etch and damage the surface of limestone, requiring careful cleaning practices.
6. Temperature Sensitivity:
   Like most stones, limestone can feel cold to the touch, which might not be ideal in cooler climates unless paired with heating solutions.

Summary:

Limestone can bring natural beauty and warmth to a bathroom wall, but its porosity and need for consistent maintenance make it better suited for spaces with low to moderate moisture exposure. Proper sealing and care are essential to extend its lifespan and retain its beauty.

Cost: $25 to $50 per square foot

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5. Quartzite: A Warm and Textured Look

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that is a very hard and solid stone made up of tightly interlocking stones. Quartzites are composed mainly of quartz grains, but often have other minerals.

Quartzite is a dense, hard stone that can be used for various purposes, including decorative accent pieces or as flooring or wall tile in the bathroom.

Quartzite is a durable stone that can withstand plenty of wear and tear. It resists water penetration and damage from mineral oils, which makes it an ideal material for use in your bathroom on walls, countertops, and floors.

Quartzite resists scratching, cracking, and chipping even when exposed to large amounts of water over extended periods of time, making it an ideal surface for bathrooms where excessive moisture exposure will occur.

Pros:

1. Durability:
   Quartzite is one of the hardest natural stones, making it highly resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. It’s ideal for long-term use in high-traffic bathrooms.
2. Moisture Resistance:
   When properly sealed, quartzite is highly resistant to water, making it suitable for humid bathroom environments.
3. Heat Resistance:
   Unlike some other stones, quartzite can withstand high temperatures, making it great for bathrooms with steam showers or heated elements.
4. Low Maintenance:
   Requires minimal upkeep once sealed. Cleaning involves only mild soap and water, making it hassle-free compared to porous stones like marble.
5. Luxurious Aesthetic:
   Quartzite mimics the beauty of marble with intricate veining and vibrant patterns, offering elegance with added durability.
6. Wide Variety of Colors and Patterns:
   Available in various shades like white, gray, gold, or even blue, allowing customization to match different design styles.

Cons:

1. High Cost:
   Quartzite is more expensive than many other natural stones due to its durability and beauty. This can impact the overall budget of a bathroom remodel.
2. Professional Installation Required:
   It is a heavy material that requires skilled handling and installation, increasing labor costs.
3. Porous if Unsealed:
   Quartzite can absorb moisture and stain if not properly sealed, though it’s less porous than limestone or marble.
4. Limited Availability:
   Premium quality quartzite may not be as readily available as other stones, requiring sourcing from specific suppliers.
5. Cold to the Touch:
   Like most natural stones, quartzite can feel cold, which may not be ideal in colder climates without underfloor heating.

Summary:

Quartzite stone is an excellent choice stone for bathroom walls if you value durability, low maintenance, and a luxurious look. However, its higher cost and need for professional installation may be drawbacks for some homeowners.

Cost: $50 to $120 per square foot

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Comparison Table: Best Types of Stone for Bathroom Walls

Stone Type	Key Features	Pros	Cons	Best For
Marble	Luxurious, natural veining; polished or honed finishes.	– Elegant and timeless look. – Wide variety of colors and patterns. – Reflective surface.	– Porous and prone to staining if not sealed. – Requires regular maintenance.	High-end, luxurious bathroom designs.
Granite	Durable and non-porous when sealed; available in natural earthy tones.	– Extremely durable and scratch-resistant. – Resistant to moisture and heat.	– Heavier, requiring professional installation. – Limited color range.	Long-lasting, low-maintenance bathrooms.
Slate	Textured, slip-resistant surface; naturally water-resistant.	– Rugged, modern, or rustic look. – Low maintenance and highly durable.	– Limited color palette (grays, blacks, earthy tones). – Can flake over time.	Industrial, rustic, or modern designs.
Limestone	Soft and neutral tones; natural matte finish.	– Brightens up spaces with light tones. – Adds subtle elegance. – Naturally insulating.	– Highly porous, requiring frequent sealing. – Susceptible to stains and scratches.	Minimalist or contemporary designs.
Quartzite	Extremely durable; resembles marble but offers higher resistance to wear and tear.	– Resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. – Low maintenance. – Wide variety of patterns.	– More expensive than other stones. – Requires professional installation.	Luxury bathrooms needing durability & style.

This table provides a quick overview of the strengths and weaknesses of each stone, helping you choose the best option for your bathroom wall based on aesthetics, functionality, and budget.

Maintenance of Stone for Bathroom Walls

Stone walls in the bathroom add timeless elegance and durability, but maintaining them properly is crucial to ensure they remain in pristine condition.

From cleaning to sealing, this guide covers all aspects of stone maintenance to help you preserve the beauty of your bathroom walls.

1. Understanding Your Stone Type

Different stones require different care techniques. Here’s a brief overview of common bathroom wall stones and their characteristics:

• Marble: Soft and porous, susceptible to scratches and etching. Requires gentle care.
• Granite: Hard and durable, but sealing is essential to maintain its resistance to moisture.
• Slate: Textured and natural-looking, but prone to flaking if not sealed.
• Limestone: Porous and softer, needing regular sealing and gentle cleaning.
• Quartzite: Extremely hard and durable, but still benefits from regular sealing.

Knowing your stone type helps tailor the maintenance routine to its specific needs.

2. Daily Care and Cleaning

• Use Mild Cleaners: Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or acidic products like vinegar and lemon juice. Opt for a pH-neutral stone cleaner to protect the surface.
• Wipe Down After Use: Prevent water spots and soap scum by wiping walls with a soft, dry cloth or squeegee after every use.
• Avoid Abrasive Tools: Use non-scratch sponges or microfiber cloths to clean the surface without damaging the stone.

3. Sealing the Stone

Most natural stones are porous and require sealing to protect against moisture, stains, and mold.

• Frequency of Sealing:
  • Marble and Limestone: Every 6–12 months.
  • Granite and Quartzite: Every 1–2 years.
  • Slate: Every 1–2 years, or as needed depending on its exposure to water.
• How to Seal:
  1. Clean the stone thoroughly and allow it to dry.
  2. Apply a stone sealer with a clean cloth or spray applicator.
  3. Let it sit for the recommended time (per product instructions), then wipe off excess sealer.
  4. Buff the surface for a smooth finish.

4. Preventing Mold and Mildew

Bathrooms are prone to high humidity, making mold and mildew a common issue.

• Improve Ventilation: Use an exhaust fan or open windows to reduce moisture buildup.
• Dry Surfaces Quickly: Regularly wipe down wet areas to prevent mold growth.
• Use Mold-Resistant Products: Consider mold-inhibiting sealers or cleaning agents designed for stone.

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5. Addressing Stains and Scratches

• Stain Removal: For organic stains (e.g., soap scum or mold), use a poultice designed for stone. Avoid bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the surface.
• Scratches: Minor scratches can often be buffed out with a fine-grade polishing compound. For deeper scratches, consult a professional.

6. Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Skipping Regular Maintenance: Neglecting cleaning and sealing can lead to staining, water damage, and reduced longevity.
• Using Harsh Chemicals: Acidic or abrasive cleaners can etch or dull the stone’s surface.
• Ignoring Chips and Cracks: Small damages can expand over time if left unrepaired, compromising the stone’s integrity.

7. Professional Maintenance

For heavily stained or damaged stone walls, professional cleaning, polishing, or repair may be necessary. A stone care expert can restore your bathroom walls to their original condition and recommend tailored maintenance practices.

8. Maintenance Tips for Specific Stones

• Marble: Always clean spills immediately to prevent etching. Avoid heavy scrubbing or abrasive tools.
• Granite: Periodic polishing enhances its natural shine.
• Slate: Regularly reseal to protect against flaking and water absorption.
• Limestone: Be cautious of heavy moisture exposure; keep it well-sealed.
• Quartzite: Low maintenance but benefits from routine cleaning and occasional sealing.

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and beauty of stone for bathroom walls. With regular cleaning, sealing, and care tailored to your stone type, you can enjoy the timeless elegance of natural stone while keeping it in excellent condition for years to come.

Investing time and effort in maintenance not only enhances the stone’s appearance but also protects your bathroom from potential damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The Bottom Line: Many types of stone are perfectly suited to use in bathrooms. The look of stone in the bathroom is sleek, stylish, and timeless. It’s easy to see why: bathrooms are moist environments, making the durability and water-resistance of stone a great choice.

If you’re thinking about adding natural stone to your bathroom walls, it’s important to choose the right type of stone for your project. The most important factors for choosing a bathroom wall material are its water resistance, cost, and durability.

The wide variety of stones available means you can customize your bathroom — from the tub to the tiles, and everything in between — with distinctive combinations of stone textures and colors. Moreover, you can pair different types on the same wall for contrasting or complementary effects. You have lots of options!