Ledgestone tiles can add beautiful, natural texture and warmth to a bathroom design. The irregular shapes and earthy tones of ledgestone bring a bit of the outdoors inside. Ledgestone tiles make an impactful statement in a bathroom while providing a practical, easy-to-clean surface.
What is Ledgestone Tile?
Ledgestone tiles are pieces of natural stone cut thin and stacked together to achieve a layered look. The stones have uneven edges and shapes that fit together in an irregular pattern, mimicking the look of a natural rock ledge.
Ledgestone can come in a variety of different types of stone such as:
- Sandstone
- Limestone
- Bluestone
- Quartzite
- Granite
- Marble
The most popular stones for ledgestone are sandstone and bluestone. Sandstone ledgestone has beautiful earthy tan and brown shades that add warmth. The stone is relatively soft and easier to cut into thin pieces.
Bluestone ledgestone derives its name from the blue-gray hue of the natural quartzite stone. When cut thin, the stone exhibits beautiful layers of color and texture. Bluestone is extremely durable and resistant to weathering.
Benefits of Ledgestone Tile
There are many reasons to love the look of ledgestone tile in a bathroom:
Natural Beauty
The organic shapes and layered texture of ledgestone tiles bring a raw, natural beauty to a space. The tiles have an unevenness that feels pleasingly imperfect. The varied earth tones and shapes resemble stones formed through the flowing of water over time. Ledgestone tiles add a soothing, spa-like ambiance.
Rustic Charm
Ledgestone imparts a wonderful rustic or cottage charm. The seemingly random stacks of stone tiles lend a sense of informality. Ledgestone tiles can make even the sleekest, most contemporary bathroom design feel warmer and more inviting.
Texture and Dimension
The rich texture and dimensional shape of ledgestone tiles add wonderful visual interest to walls and floors. The tiles have an inherent sense of depth because of the layered stone construction. Shadow and light play across the tiles’ craggy fronts.
Durability
Quality ledgestone tiles made from granite, quartzite, or marble offer incredible durability. They resist staining, scratching, and wear. With proper sealing, ledgestone tiles can withstand decades of use while still looking beautiful.
Easy Maintenance
The thin construction of ledgestone tiles allows for easy cleaning with no grout lines to trap dirt. Ledgestone’s smooth front surfaces simply need sweeping and occasionally mopping. Proper sealing protects ledgestone from absorbing liquids or moisture.
Ledgestone Shower Walls
One of the most striking uses of ledgestone is on bathroom shower walls. Covering the shower in ledgestone tiles creates a stunning feature wall that evokes the beauty of natural stone.
Ledgestone tile brings texture and warmth to offset sleek glass shower doors and metal hardware. Coordinating ledgestone stacked stone wainscoting around the rest of the bathroom carries the ledgestone theme throughout the space.
When designing a ledgestone shower:
- Select a waterproof backing like mosaic mesh sheets for easy installation. This allows thin ledgestone to be used safely behind tile.
- Use dark grout colors like charcoal or chocolate to highlight the irregular stone shapes.
- Add Ledgestone niches for storing bath products. This creates charming “caves” in the stone.
- Consider a ledgestone seat or shelf area as an attractive accent.
- Install enough ledgestone vertically to create the look of stacked ledges. A minimum of 4 feet high is ideal.
Ledgestone showers work equally well in modern, transitional, or traditional design styles. The natural stone adds texture and warmth that complements both sleek and ornate looks.
Ledgestone Bathroom Floors
Ledgestone makes for an incredibly attractive and practical bathroom flooring choice. The stone’s layered construction creates a nicely grippy surface, perfect for wet areas. Sealing the tiles properly prevents liquid absorption.
On floors, ledgestone tiles can be installed in traditional mortar over a concrete substrate. Using a high-quality waterproofing and crack isolation membrane provides critical protection from moisture damage.
Larger format 12×24 inch ledgestone floor tiles create a beautiful look reminiscent of ancient stone foundations. Mosaic sheets of smaller 3×6 ledgestone strips result in a more refined mosaic texture.
Matching wall and floor tiles in ledgestone creates a gorgeously cohesive look. Transition strips camouflaged with ledgestone blend the flooring beautifully.
Design considerations for ledgestone bathroom floors:
- Use large format tiles to minimize grout lines that can get dirty.
- Select mosaic sheets for easier installation in complicated floor layouts.
- Pair ledgestone tile with radiant floor heating for luxurious warmth underfoot.
- Include a linear drain along the shower entry to prevent water pooling.
- Use natural stone sealant regularly to prevent staining and water absorption.
Ledgestone for Bathroom Walls
Ledgestone tiles make a wonderful feature wall in a bathroom. Full ledgestone walls provide rustic texture from floor to ceiling. Using ledgestone on a single accent wall behind the vanity or tub adds a beautiful focal point.
On walls, ledgestone can be installed over cement board using thinset mortar adhesive. Using a quality waterproofing membrane is critical behind walls that will get wet.
For a quick and easy application, adhere mosaic sheets of ledgestone tiles directly to existing drywall using construction adhesive. This creates a beautiful ledgestone look without tile setting.
Design tips for ledgestone bathroom walls:
- Mix ledgestone wall tiles with glass, marble, or porcelain accents for contrast.
- Incorporate natural wood shelves or cabinets to complement the rustic stone tiles.
- Use large scale ledgestone tiles around tub surrounds to mimic in-ground bathing pools.
- Line ledgestone horizontally to give the illusion of thicker stone ledges.
- Accent ledgestone walls with hand-carved wood trim details.
Ledgestone Around Bathtubs
Ledgestone tile makes an incredibly attractive and decorative surround material for bathtubs. The stone tiles lend a wonderful spa-like feel to a soaking tub area.
Full ledgestone surrounds work beautifully for freestanding tubs. The stone tiles ground the tub and give it the feel of being encased in rock.
For built-in tubs with tile surrounds, using ledgestone on the bottom half of the walls adds beautiful texture without overwhelming the space. The stone tiles seamlessly bridge the transition from tub to floor.
When designing a ledgestone tub surround:
- Use waterproof cement board and membrane for moisture protection behind the tiles.
- Choose a ledgestone laying pattern that runs horizontally to mimic stone ledges.
- Incorporate shelf ledges or niches in the ledgestone to hold bath accessories.
- Pair neutral toned stone with crisp white upper walls and tub for contrast.
- Consider small glass mosaic accents to add glimmer and color.
Ledgestone tile brings the look of natural stone to even the most basic fiberglass tub surround. Used creatively, ledgestone can transform a tub area into a spa-like oasis.
Ledgestone Tile Patterns and Designs
One of the beauties of ledgestone is the ability to create varied layout patterns with the irregularly sized and shaped tiles. Traditional brick layouts, patterns, and mosaics are all possible.
Random Ledge Stone Layout
This is the most common and straightforward installation method. Tiles are adhered randomly like a natural rock ledge. This layout highlights the diversity of stone shapes and colors. It has an organic, informal look.
Mosaic Ledgestone
Using many small format ledgestone pieces creates a refined mosaic appearance. Mosaic sheets make install much easier. The small scale adds texture and visual interest.
Ombre or Blend Patterns
Ledgestone types like sandstone naturally exhibit color variations. Tiles can be blended from dark to light to create beautiful ombre patterns.
Geometric Patterns
The mosaic scale of ledgestone lends itself to geometric designs like stacked chevrons, herringbones, or concentric rectangles. Metal or glass mosaic tiles can accent.
Three Dimensional Effects
Not all ledgestone tiles need lie flat. Some can project outward to add shadow lines and dimensional effects. This adds depth and makes the stone detailing more prominent.
Inlayed Metal, Glass, Shell
Small bits of metal, glass, or other materials can be inlayed into ledgestone motifs. This adds light catching accents and more diversity of texture.
Pairing Ledgestone Tile with Other Materials
Although ledgestone tiles add plenty of visual interest on their own, they look beautiful paired with complementary mixes of other tiles and materials.
Glass: Clear, frosted, or colored glass mosaic tiles contrast beautifully with ledgestone’s earthy textures. Reflective glass can pick up and bounce light around the bathroom.
Porcelain: Large format polished porcelain or ceramic tiles offer a sleek counterpoint to ledgestone’s craggy face. Porcelain mosaics also pair nicely.
Metal: Brushed metal or stainless steel mosaics, trim, shelving and tub surrounds bring contemporary edge against rustic ledgestone tiles.
Wood: Natural wood floors, cabinets, shelves and accents complement ledgestone’s organic vibe. The paired materials make a bathroom feel comfortably rugged.
Marble: Honed marble mosaics or accent tiles lend subtle luxury. Veining in marble pairs nicely with ledgestone’s strata. Keep stone colors in the same tonal family.
Granite: Matching or contrasting granite tiles make ledgestone feel right at home. The combination of natural stone materials results in beautifully cohesive designs.
Limestone: Soft-textured tumbled limestone accents work beautifully with ledgestone’s craggy face. Keeping all stones in neutral shades creates harmony.
Pairing ledgestone with a judicious mix of contrasting tiles and materials results in designer bathroom spaces with visual interest, depth, and style.
Ideas for Ledgestone Bathrooms by Style
Ledgestone tile adds natural rustic ambiance that works well to warm up any design style. From contemporary to traditional, ledgestone makes its statement while fitting in beautifully.
Modern Ledgestone Bathrooms
In modern bathroom designs, ledgestone tiles add organic contrast. The stone’s unrefined, chunky look juxtaposed against sleek surfaces creates visual tension.
Pair ledgestone with glass, metal and polished concrete or porcelain. Incorporate modern sconces, fixtures and accessories. Keep ledgestone to a feature wall or flooring zone to maintain an edgy vibe.
Transitional Ledgestone Bathrooms
Transitional design bridges old and new, perfect for ledgestone’s timeless earthy look. Pair ledgestone walls with clean-lined tub surrounds and vanities.
Add glass mosaic accents on walls or floors. Include warm wood shelving and modern metal fixtures. Use ledgestone to infuse character without overpowering the refined vibe.
Traditional Ledgestone Bathrooms
In traditional bathrooms, ledgestone tile feels graciously at home. Ledgestone fireplace surrounds, clawfoot tub skirting, patterned mosaic floors and stone vanities capture old-world charm.
Enhance the classic mood with chandeliers and sconces, arched mirrors and dramatic Roman tub surrounds. Employ ledgestone generously to craft a character-rich, ornate environment.
Rustic Ledgestone Bathrooms
Ledgestone epitomizes rustic and farmhouse design. Use wide-format tiles and mosaic ledgestone floors for old-world stone foundations. Ledgestone half-walls offer cottage charm.
Include reclaimed wood features, vintage accessories, and farm style sinks. Wrought iron fixtures and antique chandeliers boost coziness. Let ledgestone tile span entire rustic bath spaces for fully immersive charm.
Cottage Ledgestone Bathrooms
Cottage bathrooms exemplify relaxed elegance. Ledgestone lends itself beautifully to a laid-back decor. Use ledgestone selectively on accent walls or tub/shower surrounds.
Soften the stone textures with breezy linens, woven baskets, and painted wood cabinetry. Include a comfy slipper chair paired with round striped rugs. Allow ledgestone to instill cozy character within the beachy cottage vibe.
With thoughtful pairings and applications, ledgestone’s beauty remarkably enhances any design style. The stone imparts welcoming, grounded warmth whatever the decor direction.
Maintenance Tips for Ledgestone Tile
Ledgestone tiles are quite durable, but proper care and maintenance will keep them looking beautiful for decades.
- Seal tiles and grout: Apply quality sealant initially and re-seal ledgestone every 1-2 years. Sealant prevents stains and water absorption.
- Grout cleaning: Use a soft brush and mild cleaner for periodic grout maintenance. Re-apply grout sealer every few years.
- Sweep and mop: Sweep ledgestone tiles regularly to remove dust and debris. Occasionally mop with neutral pH stone cleaner.
- Address stains quickly: Clean up spills immediately. Apply poultice procedures for stubborn organic stains. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Re-caulk: Check for cracked or missing caulk annually. Re-caulk around ledgestone joints to prevent moisture penetration.
- No harsh chemicals: Do not use acidic, alkaline, or oil-based cleaners on ledgestone tiles. This can etch, stain, or dull the stone.
With some simple routine care, ledgestone tiles can stay beautiful for the lifetime of a home. Their natural patina only enhances over time. Follow best practices to avoid damage and keep ledgestone tiles looking their naturally gorgeous best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ledgestone Tiles
Here are answers to some common questions about working with beautiful ledgestone tile:
Is ledgestone tile expensive?
Ledgestone tiles range from $5-$15 per square foot installed. More premium natural stones like granite and marble ledgestone cost more. Overall, ledgestone provides high value for the look and durability.
How difficult is it to install ledgestone tile?
Ledgestone mosaic sheets make installation reasonably easy. Using quality thinset mortar and correct trowel technique ensure proper adhesion. Choosing a professional installer is wise for first-timers.
Does ledgestone need a special backing?
On shower walls, a waterproof membrane backing is critical to prevent moisture damage. Concrete backer board also provides stability. Use mesh-mounted mosaic sheets for easier install.
What thinset mortar is best for ledgestone?
Use white polymer fortified mortar which bonds better to stone. Latex additive improves adhesion and flexibility. Avoid lightweight mortars which lack bonding strength.
How do you cut irregular ledgestone pieces?
Use a wet saw with a diamond blade designed for natural stone. Cut slowly to avoid cracking ledgestone. A grinder can smooth cut edges. Chisels also carefully shape stones.
Can ledgestone be used on exterior walls?
Yes, ledgestone works beautifully for siding, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, and more. Ensure proper drainage and freezing expansion joints. Seal exterior ledgestone annually.
How do you clean ledgestone grout?
Dampen grout lines and use a soft brush with a gentle cleaner to scrub grout. Grout pens or whitening cleaners can help renew dingy areas. Re-seal grout every 2-3 years.
Is ledgestone tile environmentally friendly?
Ledgestone is a sustainable natural material. Stone quarrying and manufacturing impact is relatively low. Less energy, water and toxins are used versus man-made alternative tiles.
Ledgestone tile provides stunning good looks paired with eco-friendly benefits. With proper installation and care, ledgestone tiles bring lasting beauty and natural style to bathrooms. Their earthy beauty undoubtedly inspires a love for the look of ledgestone.
