Can Finland's Tulikivi Green Marble be used exterior applications in hot climates?
Tulikivi, also known as soapstone or steatite, is a type of natural stone that is mostly used for interior applications such as countertops, fireplace surrounds, and floor tiles. While it is a durable and heat-resistant material, it is not typically recommended for exterior applications in hot climates.
One reason for this is that Tulikivi has a relatively low thermal conductivity, meaning it absorbs and conducts heat at a slower rate compared to other stones. In hot climates, where temperatures can soar, Tulikivi may absorb a significant amount of heat from the sun, resulting in the stone becoming extremely hot to touch. This can be uncomfortable for people walking barefoot or touching the stone, and may also cause expansion and contraction of the stone, leading to cracking or other damage over time.
Additionally, Tulikivi is a softer stone compared to granite or marble, and it is more prone to scratches, stains, and fading when exposed to the elements. The freeze-thaw cycles that can occur in some climates may also cause the stone to deteriorate faster.
Considering these factors, it is generally advised to use Tulikivi Green Marble for interior applications or in more moderate climates where extreme temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight exposure are not a concern.
Tulikivi, also known as soapstone or steatite, is a type of natural stone that is mostly used for interior applications such as countertops, fireplace surrounds, and floor tiles. While it is a durable and heat-resistant material, it is not typically recommended for exterior applications in hot climates.
One reason for this is that Tulikivi has a relatively low thermal conductivity, meaning it absorbs and conducts heat at a slower rate compared to other stones. In hot climates, where temperatures can soar, Tulikivi may absorb a significant amount of heat from the sun, resulting in the stone becoming extremely hot to touch. This can be uncomfortable for people walking barefoot or touching the stone, and may also cause expansion and contraction of the stone, leading to cracking or other damage over time.
Additionally, Tulikivi is a softer stone compared to granite or marble, and it is more prone to scratches, stains, and fading when exposed to the elements. The freeze-thaw cycles that can occur in some climates may also cause the stone to deteriorate faster.
Considering these factors, it is generally advised to use Tulikivi Green Marble for interior applications or in more moderate climates where extreme temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight exposure are not a concern.