| Those
of you that already own a Tulikivi are already familiar with the unique characteristics of
soapstone, particularly its capacity to store and radiate heat. Formed miles below the
surface of the earth, soapstone consists mainly of talc and magnesite. The talc content
makes it easy to carve and work with, and the magnesite makes the stone very tough - even
tougher than concrete. Because it resists acids and is so durable, soapstone is practical
for stoves, and also for countertops, sinks, and even floor paving. At the same time, it
is quite beautiful: The elegant look and smooth feel of soapstone means it is not only
servicable, but also a welcome decorative addition to the home.
One good way to enhance the warming capacity of a
soapstone stove is to use soapstone tiles as a wall or floor surfacing. The tiles are
excellent for hearths and for facing wall areas around a stove, as well as for stairs,
column facings, and indoor window sills. Since they are water-resistant and not slippery
when wet, soapstone tiles are also a good choice for flooring in entrance halls,
bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens. A Tulikivi floor is virtually noiseless, and extremely
energy efficient because the stone absorbs and radiates heat in the same manner as a
stove. As weather-resistant natural stone, soapstone works well for paving on outdoor
surfaces such as terraces and patios.
|
| FACTS ON TILE Tulikivi soapstone tiles
are manufactured from the same soapstone used for Tulikivi fireplaces. The standard finish
is water-sanded, but diamond calibrated, sandblasted, and rough-faced tile can also be
special ordered. Soapstone tiles are installed in the same manner as ceramic tiles; laid
over a flat base with tile plaster or tile grout. They are fitted using a 2 to 3 mm gap
and finished with normal gap grout. (Excess grout should be wiped away immediately before
it has time to dry and stick to the stone.) Wiping with a damp mop or cloth is fine for
routine cleaning and care. For more information on soapstone tiles and how to install them,
contact us. |
| GREY SOAPSTONE
TILES 98.5 mm x 200 mm (8 mm
thick)
4.00"x 7.88" (.31" thick)
148 mm x 300 mm (8 mm thick)
5.81" x 11.81" (.31 thick)
148 mm x 300 mm (10 mm thick)
5.81" x 11.81" (.39 thick)
300 mm x 300 mm (10 mm thick)
11.81" x 11.81" (.39 thick)
148 mm x 300 mm (15 mm thick)
5.81" x 11.81" (.59 thick)
300 mm x 300 mm (15 mm thick)
11.81" x 11.81" (.59 thick) |
| GREEN SERPENTINE
TILES: 98.5 mm x 200 mm (8 mm
thick)
4.00"x 7.88" (.31" thick)
148 mm x 300 mm (10 mm thick)
5.81" x 11.81" (.39 thick)
300 mm x 300 mm (10 mm thick)
11.81" x 11.81" (.39 thick)
148 mm x 300 mm (15 mm thick)
5.81" x 11.81" (.59 thick)
300 mm x 300 mm (15 mm thick)
11.81" x 11.81" (.59 thick) |
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