Buying stone slabs: the complete checklist before you order
Buying slabs is different from buying tiles.
With slabs, every piece can have its own visual character, and one crack, vein or wrong cut can strongly affect the final result.
1. Define the application
What is the slab for?
- TV wall
- kitchen island
- lobby
- countertop
- wall
- floor
The application decides which criteria matter most.
2. Actual slab dimensions
"Large slab" is not enough.
Get the length and width of each piece.
3. Project layout
Before buying, decide how the pieces will be cut.
This reduces waste.
4. Slab soundness
Check for:
- cracks
- chipped edges
- breaks
- weak spots
5. Crack or vein?
Not every line on a stone is a crack. Check lines carefully under good light before deciding.
6. Resin and mesh
Some slabs are reinforced with resin or mesh.
This should be judged against the stone type and the application.
7. Thickness
Measure the actual thickness and check the tolerance between pieces.
8. Polishing quality
Look at the surface under side light.
Check for:
- waviness
- machine lines
- differences in gloss
9. Grade and colour
View several slabs side by side.
For a book-matched project, the related pieces must be identified.
10. Book-matching
If you want book-matching, before cutting:
- lay the slabs side by side
- take photos
- approve the cutting direction
11. Numbering the slabs
In a multi-slab order, each piece should be numbered.
12. Cut-outs
Plan in advance for:
- sinks
- TVs
- sockets
- corners
- edges
13. Waste
Slabs are expensive; the layout matters a great deal before buying.
14. Access route
Check that the slab or cut pieces will pass through:
- doors
- corridors
- lifts
- stairwells
15. Packing
Slabs should be transported on suitable A-frames.
16. Photos before loading
Get final photos before shipment.
17. Price
Slab price depends on:
- stone type
- sound dimensions
- grade
- soundness
- finish
Granite slabs
Suitable for demanding applications and some walls. See our granite range.
Marble slabs
Very popular for lobbies, walls and kitchen islands. See our marble range.
Onyx slabs
Highly valued for feature areas and backlighting. See our onyx range.
Summary
When buying slabs, the piece itself matters more than the product's general name.
See the real slab, measure it and approve the layout before the final payment.
Frequently asked questions
Is it sensible to buy slabs without full photos?
For an important project, it is not recommended.
When should book-matching be defined?
Before cutting.
Is mesh on the back of a slab bad?
Not necessarily; it depends on the stone type and the application.
Why do slab dimensions matter?
Because they directly affect waste and where joints fall.