• Skip to main content
Menu
  • Home
  • Countertops
    • Signature Color Collection
    • Natural Stone
    • Quartz
    • Porcelain
    • Custom
  • Tile & Stone
    • Large Format Porcelain
    • Porcelain Tile
    • Ceramic Tile
    • Marble Tile
    • Glass TIle
    • Mosaic Tile
    • Veneer
    • Outdoor Products
      • Tile Decking
      • Pavers
  • In-Stock
    • Digital Slab Inventory
    • Large Format Porcelain Gallery
    • Tile
  • Gallery
  • Resources
    • Blog
    • Calculating Square Footage
    • Kitchen & Bath Visualizer
    • Green Initiative
    • Tile Wear Ratings
    • Tile Variations
    • Care & Maintenance
  • About Us
    • Who We Serve
      • Residential A&D
      • Commercial A&D
      • Builder & Remodeler
      • Homeowner
    • Our Showroom
    • Locations & Hours
    • Testimonials
    • Careers
Schedule Consultation
Menu
  • Home
  • Countertops
    • Signature Color Collection
    • Natural Stone
    • Quartz
    • Porcelain
    • Custom
  • Tile & Stone
    • Large Format Porcelain
    • Porcelain Tile
    • Ceramic Tile
    • Marble Tile
    • Glass TIle
    • Mosaic Tile
    • Veneer
    • Outdoor Products
      • Tile Decking
      • Pavers
  • In-Stock
    • Digital Slab Inventory
    • Large Format Porcelain Gallery
    • Tile
  • Gallery
  • Resources
    • Blog
    • Calculating Square Footage
    • Kitchen & Bath Visualizer
    • Green Initiative
    • Tile Wear Ratings
    • Tile Variations
    • Care & Maintenance
  • About Us
    • Who We Serve
      • Residential A&D
      • Commercial A&D
      • Builder & Remodeler
      • Homeowner
    • Our Showroom
    • Locations & Hours
    • Testimonials
    • Careers

MTS Team

May 12 2026

Where to Buy Natural Stone In Minnesota: Buyer’s Guide to Showrooms, Slabs, and Project Planning

When people ask where to buy natural stone in Minnesota, they often start with the slab alone.

That makes sense, but it is only part of the decision.

A good natural stone project starts with a showroom that helps you compare material type, finish, pattern movement, edge options, and fabrication needs before you commit. Minnesota Tile & Stone positions itself as a long-standing tile and stone source in the Twin Cities, serving homeowners, designers, and contractors since 1930. The company also states that it has five showroom locations, which gives buyers more ways to review materials in person rather than relying on photos alone. 

That matters for buyers in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Woodbury, and Lakeville because natural stone is never a one-size-fits-all purchase. Granite, marble, quartzite, and other stone surfaces all behave differently once they are installed. The earlier you compare those differences, the easier it is to make a choice that fits the room and the way you live. Minnesota Tile & Stone’s natural stone page and broader countertops page are useful starting points for that process. 

Pro tip: Bring cabinet, flooring, and paint samples with you when you visit a showroom. Natural stone can look very different depending on the finishes and lighting around it.

Review Full Slabs, Not Just Samples, Before You Buy Natural Stone

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is choosing natural stone from a small sample.

A small sample can show the color family, but it rarely tells you how the full slab will move across a large island, long kitchen run, fireplace surround, or bathroom vanity. Veining, tonal shifts, and pattern flow are what make natural stone appealing in the first place, so you need to see more than a corner piece before making a final call.

Minnesota Tile & Stone makes that easier by offering a digital slab inventory where buyers can review available slab options and filter by material, type, finish, and size. That is especially helpful for homeowners and designers who want to narrow down options before visiting a showroom or planning fabrication. 

The company also notes on its natural stone page that each slab of granite, marble, quartzite, and other natural stones is one of a kind. That is exactly why reviewing a full slab matters. Two pieces in the same material family may not deliver the same finished result once fabricated. 

Pro tip: If the stone has strong movement or veining, ask to review how the slab will be laid out before fabrication begins. This helps you avoid surprises on islands, backsplashes, and waterfall edges.

You can also use Minnesota Tile & Stone’s showroom experience page and locations and hours page to plan an in-person visit.

Tile Resource & Countertop Fabrication

Where to buy natural stone if you want the right slab, the right guidance, and a smoother project from start to finish?

Looking for natural stone in Minnesota? Learn how to compare showrooms, review slabs, plan your project, and choose the right fabrication partner in the Twin Cities with Minnesota Tile & Stone.

Schedule consultation

Project Planning Matters as Much as the Stone Itself

A natural stone project is not finished when you find a slab you like.

That is when the next important part begins.

You still need to think about room measurements, sink and faucet placement, backsplash scope, edge profile, seam planning, and how the material will be fabricated for the specific space. Minnesota Tile & Stone’s countertop page makes this point clearly by stating that countertop longevity depends not just on the material, but also on the quality of the fabrication and installation. The same page says natural stone surfaces can remain functional for more than 100 years with routine care.

That is a useful reminder for homeowners and builders across the Twin Cities. The better the planning, the better the finished project tends to look and function.

Minnesota Tile & Stone also says it can source, fabricate, and customize products to project specifications, which is important for buyers who want more than a basic showroom sale. A stone supplier that can support planning and customization gives you a better chance of ending up with a surface that fits the room properly.

Pro tip: Before requesting pricing, gather rough dimensions, sink style, edge preference, and a basic idea of backsplash scope. Better information usually leads to a more useful quote.

If you are comparing materials beyond natural stone, Minnesota Tile & Stone also has live pages for porcelain countertops and stone selections, which can help you compare options before locking in the project direction. 

Why Minnesota Tile & Stone Is a Smart Place to Buy Natural Stone in Minnesota

When buyers ask where to buy natural stone, what they usually need is not just a place with inventory.

They need a place that can help them choose well.

Minnesota Tile & Stone is positioned around that kind of support. The company describes itself as Minnesota’s design destination for tile and stone, says it has served the Twin Cities since 1930, and highlights its five showrooms, broad selection, design support, and countertop expertise. It also states that more than 80% of the products it carries are exclusive to Minnesota Tile & Stone in the Twin Cities area, which gives buyers access to options they may not find elsewhere locally. 

That combination matters whether you are a homeowner remodeling a kitchen, a new homeowner planning a bath, an interior designer coordinating finishes, or a builder sourcing material for a larger project. You want a showroom that helps you compare slabs, a team that understands fabrication needs, and a partner that can keep the project moving.

If you are planning a natural stone project in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or the broader Twin Cities area, start with Minnesota Tile & Stone’s natural stone, browse the digital slab inventory, explore the countertops page, and use locations and hours to visit the showroom nearest you. When you are ready to move forward, contact Minnesota Tile & Stone and work with a team that can help you choose the right slab and plan the project the right way.

Written by MTS Team · Categorized: Countertops

Nov 18 2025

5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Kitchen Countertops

Your kitchen is the heart of your home — where family meals, morning coffee, and holiday memories are made. But over time, even the most beautiful kitchen countertops start to show their age. Whether it’s stains, cracks, or outdated design, worn-out surfaces can diminish the look and functionality of your entire kitchen.

If you’re wondering whether it’s time for an upgrade, here are five signs that you should start considering a new countertop installation.

1) Your Countertops Are Damaged or Cracked

Everyday wear and tear can cause chips, cracks, or dents — especially in older laminate or tile countertops. While small imperfections may seem harmless at first, they often worsen over time, allowing water or debris to seep in and cause further damage.

Granite, quartz, and quartzite countertops are built for durability, but even these materials can show cracks or seam separations after decades of use or improper installation. If you notice visible cracks or uneven surfaces, it’s a clear sign that your kitchen deserves a fresh start.

Pro Tip: When you replace damaged countertops, choose materials with proven strength and longevity. Quartz and granite are excellent long-term investments for busy Minnesota kitchens.

2) Stains and Discoloration Won’t Go Away

Stains from wine, coffee, and cooking oils are common in well-loved kitchens. However, when discoloration becomes permanent — even after deep cleaning — it’s a sign your countertop’s protective seal or surface integrity has worn away.

Materials like marble and laminate are more porous and tend to absorb spills over time. Modern materials like engineered quartz or sealed granite, on the other hand, are designed to resist stains, giving you a cleaner, fresher-looking kitchen every day.

Did You Know? According to the Houzz 2024 Kitchen Trends Study, 93% of homeowners who upgraded their countertops said the new surfaces made their kitchen feel “significantly cleaner and more inviting.” (Read the study)

3) Outdated Design or Style

Even if your countertops are still functional, an outdated style can make your entire kitchen feel stuck in the past. Popular choices from 10 or 15 years ago — such as busy granite patterns or dark tones — may clash with today’s design preferences for clean, bright, and minimalist spaces.

Upgrading your countertops can instantly modernize your kitchen without requiring a full remodel. Pairing new countertops with updated hardware or lighting can create a transformation that looks like a complete renovation — often at a fraction of the cost.

Design Insight: Trending styles for 2025 include light neutral tones, waterfall edges, and matte finishes — ideal for both modern and transitional kitchen spaces.

4) Your Countertops Are No Longer Functional

If your countertop space feels too small, uneven, or cluttered, it may be time to rethink your layout altogether. Many older kitchens were designed before today’s open-concept and multi-functional living trends.

A new countertop installation can be the perfect opportunity to add a larger island, extend prep space, or integrate features like under-mounted sinks and built-in cooktops. This isn’t just about style — it’s about optimizing your kitchen for how you live today.

5) You’re Planning to Sell Your Home

Few upgrades add as much value to a home as new kitchen countertops. Buyers in Minnesota often view upgraded surfaces — especially quartz or granite — as a key indicator of overall home quality.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a minor kitchen remodel with new countertops can yield an average ROI of 72%, making it one of the most valuable upgrades before listing your home. (See the report)

Real Estate Tip: Even a modest investment in new countertops can help your kitchen photos stand out online, attract more buyers, and shorten your time on the market.

Ready to Upgrade Your Kitchen Countertops?

If your current countertops show signs of damage, discoloration, or simply don’t reflect your style anymore, now is the perfect time to explore your options. At Minnesota Tile & Stone, our expert team specializes in helping homeowners find the perfect blend of beauty and durability.

We offer a wide selection of granite, quartz, quartzite, and marble kitchen countertops, along with professional countertop installation services to ensure a flawless result every time.

✨ Transform your kitchen today. Visit our showroom or request a design consultation to get started.
Contact Minnesota Tile & Stone →

Written by MTS Team · Categorized: Countertops

Oct 29 2025

Why Tile Decking Is the Smart Choice for Modern Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living has become an essential part of modern home design, and tile decking is leading the way in style, performance, and longevity. At MN Tile & Stone, we specialize in crafting custom tile decking systems that combine natural beauty with exceptional strength, creating outdoor spaces that are as durable as they are stunning.

What Is Tile Decking?

Tile decking is an advanced outdoor flooring solution that replaces traditional wood or composite decking with porcelain or stone tiles. These tiles are installed on raised systems designed for drainage, airflow, and easy maintenance. Ideal for patios, balconies, pool decks, and rooftop terraces, tile decking offers the visual appeal of indoor flooring with the durability needed for exterior environments.

Why Choose Tile Decking?

  1. Durability That Lasts
    Tile decking is resistant to weather, UV rays, and moisture. Porcelain tiles, in particular, can withstand temperature fluctuations and heavy foot traffic without fading or warping. This makes them ideal for Minnesota’s diverse climate conditions.
  2. Low Maintenance
    Unlike wood decks that require regular staining or sealing, tile decking needs only occasional cleaning. Porcelain tiles are non-porous and resistant to mold and mildew, making them a low-maintenance and hygienic outdoor flooring option.
  3. Slip and Frost Resistance
    Outdoor-rated porcelain tiles are manufactured with textured finishes that enhance grip, even when wet. The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) recommends slip-resistant porcelain for decks and pool surrounds due to its safety and performance standards.
  4. Design Versatility
    Available in a wide variety of colors, textures, and finishes, tile decking can mimic natural stone, wood, or concrete. Whether you prefer sleek modern aesthetics or rustic outdoor charm, our design team can help you achieve your desired look.
  5. Environmentally Friendly
    Porcelain tile is made from natural clay and minerals and fired at high temperatures to create a sustainable, long-lasting surface. It contains no harmful VOCs and can even contribute to LEED credits for green building.

Applications for Tile Decking

Tile decking is ideal for:

  • Patios and courtyards
  • Pool decks and spas
  • Rooftop terraces
  • Outdoor kitchens and lounges
  • Balconies and verandas

At MN Tile & Stone, our installation experts ensure every deck is level, properly drained, and built for long-term use. Explore our gallery of outdoor projects for design inspiration and examples of our craftsmanship.

Professional Installation by MN Tile & Stone

Our professional installers use precision leveling systems and high-quality mortars to ensure structural integrity and visual perfection. Every tile is set for proper slope and water management, preventing pooling and frost damage over time.

Ready to upgrade your outdoor space with premium tile decking? Contact MN Tile & Stone today to schedule a consultation or request a free quote.

Written by MTS Team · Categorized: Countertops

Oct 08 2025

Firebowl Fire Pits: A Blend of Design, Comfort, and Outdoor Entertainment

There’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm fire with friends and family. A firebowl fire pit combines modern design with practical comfort, transforming your backyard or patio into a stylish retreat. At MN Tile & Stone, we create custom firebowl fire pits that complement your outdoor aesthetic while delivering exceptional performance and safety.

Why Choose a Firebowl Fire Pit?

  1. Design Versatility
    Firebowls come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Whether you prefer sleek concrete finishes, elegant stone surrounds, or contemporary metal designs, our team can create a feature that perfectly matches your style.
  2. Durability and Longevity
    Crafted from heat-resistant materials like cast concrete, porcelain, or natural stone, our firebowls are built to withstand Minnesota’s seasonal temperature extremes. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), outdoor amenities such as fire pits are among the top five most desired home upgrades for adding resale value and outdoor enjoyment.
  3. Safe and Functional Heating
    Our firebowls are designed for efficient heat distribution while maintaining safety. They can be fueled by natural gas, propane, or wood, depending on your preferences. Each installation follows strict safety standards from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to ensure reliable operation.
  4. Low Maintenance
    Unlike traditional fire pits, firebowls require minimal maintenance. Non-porous materials resist cracking, and gas-fueled designs eliminate the mess of ashes or soot. Our specialists also ensure proper ventilation and drainage during installation for maximum lifespan.

Custom Firebowl Design Options

MN Tile & Stone offers fully customizable firebowl designs to fit your outdoor space, including:

  • Circular or rectangular basins for different layouts
  • Integrated seating or stone ledges for entertaining
  • Custom tile or stone surrounds that match your patio or pool deck

Professional Installation You Can Rely On

Every firebowl fire pit installation by MN Tile & Stone is handled by experienced professionals who understand the technical and safety requirements for outdoor heating features. We ensure that all gas lines, electrical connections, and stonework are installed to meet local building codes and manufacturer guidelines.

Our team coordinates every detail—from design consultation to final installation—to create a beautiful, safe, and functional centerpiece for your outdoor area.

Ready to elevate your outdoor living experience? Contact MN Tile & Stone to learn more about our custom firebowl fire pits and schedule your design consultation today.

Written by MTS Team · Categorized: Countertops

Visit One of Our Showrooms Today

With five convenient locations, finding the perfect countertop, fireplace surround, or unique tile has never been simpler.

Locations & Hours
  • info@mntile.com
Facebook-f Instagram Pinterest-p Linkedin-in

Company

Menu
  • About Us
  • Locations & Hours
  • Testimonials
  • Careers

Countertops

Menu
  • Digital Slab Inventory
  • Natural Stone
  • Quartz
  • Porcelain
  • Custom

Resources

Menu
  • Blog
  • Calculating Square Footage
  • Kitchen & Bath Visualizer
  • Green Initiative
  • Tile Wear Ratings
  • Tile Variations
  • Care & Maintenance
Copyright © 2026 Minnesota Tile & Stone LLC. All Rights Reserved | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Accessibility Statement | Accessibility Toolbar
Get a Free Quote
Minnesota Tile & Stone LLC
Manage Consent
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
  • Manage options
  • Manage services
  • Manage {vendor_count} vendors
  • Read more about these purposes
View preferences
  • {title}
  • {title}
  • {title}

Step 1 of 5 - Step 1

20%
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Consent
Are you a designer or a homeowner?*
What type of project are you doing?*
Time of day*
Tell us what projects you are working on:*
Consent*

Step 1 of 5 - Step 1

20%
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Are you a designer or a homeowner?*
What type of project are you doing?*
Time of day*
Tell us what projects you are working on:*
Consent*

Get Directions to Our Shoroom

Get Directions

Oops! We could not locate your form.