| Products of the earth, natural masonry materials | | | | masonry. Most are penetrating sealers that soak |
| come in an array of textures, subtle shades of | | | | into the porous surface; depending on the flooring |
| color, and a variety of shapes that can be used | | | | material, you may need to apply several coats to |
| to create a striking interior floor. Masonry is made | | | | produce a hard surface. |
| from stone or clay. Whether used in it's original | | | | Your masonry supplier can recommend the right |
| form - marble or slate, for example - or in | | | | product for the type of masonry floor you've |
| manmade versions, like brick or terrazzo, | | | | installed. To apply the sealer, follow the |
| masonry makes an exceptionally tough, durable | | | | manufacturer's directions. |
| floor. | | | | Once the surface has been sealed, masonry |
| Stone masonry flooring- marble, slate, limestone, | | | | floors are very easy to maintain. The materials |
| granite, and flagstone- is usually installed only in | | | | are rugged and durable and need only an |
| entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms, or used as | | | | occasional sweeping and washing with a damp |
| decorative flooring around fireplaces. | | | | sponge mop and mild detergent. |
| Brick, a relatively inexpensive type of masonry, is | | | | You may have to apply a light coat of wax now |
| becoming an increasingly popular choice for interior | | | | and then to bring out the character and texture |
| floors. Its mass and its heat retaining property | | | | of the flooring material. Check the label of the |
| make it ideal for passive solar home designs. | | | | wax container to make sure the wax you've |
| The porous surface of most masonry flooring | | | | selected is compatible with the masonry material. |
| must be sealed after the flooring is installed. | | | | Generally, you'll be looking for a water-base |
| Special sealers are available for specific types of | | | | emulsion wax. |