Slabs vs Tiles vs Cut-to-Size Pieces: Which Format to Choose?

Natural stone is produced and exported in several standard formats, each suited to different design, installation and budget requirements. Understanding the differences between slabs, tiles and cut-to-size pieces is essential when planning a project using Turkish marble, travertine, limestone, granite or onyx.

This guide explains how each format is made, when to choose it, and what to consider in terms of cost, performance and design. For an overview of Turkish stone families, see our Introduction to Turkish Natural Stones.

1. Stone Slabs: Best for Custom Fabrication

Slabs are large, factory-cut stone pieces, usually produced in thicknesses of 20 mm or 30 mm. They are ideal when precision cutting, custom fabrication or vein-matching is required.

• Used for countertops, vanity tops and staircases
• Best for bookmatching marble and onyx
• Available in polished, honed or brushed finishes

Rare decorative stones like Milas Lilac, White Onyx and Elazığ Cherry are often selected in slab form to preserve their unique movement and veining.

2. Stone Tiles: Cost-Effective & Easy to Install

Tiles are pre-cut pieces in standard sizes such as 30×60 cm, 60×60 cm or 45×45 cm. They are widely used for residential and commercial flooring and wall cladding.

• Lower production cost compared to slabs
• Consistent appearance and faster installation
• Ideal for travertine, marble and limestone floors

Popular choices include Bilecik Beige, Burdur Beige, Noce Travertine and Tundra Grey. For travertine background, see Denizli Travertine Overview.

3. Cut-to-Size Pieces: Precision for Architectural Projects

Cut-to-size pieces are manufactured according to project-specific drawings. These are common in hotels, retail spaces, villas and public buildings where exact dimensions are required.

• Custom thickness, finish and edge profiling
• Used for lobbies, staircases, elevators, facades and bathrooms
• Supports detailed architectural schedules

Materials such as Limra limestone, Andesite, Basalt, Marmara Equator, and Silver Travertine are frequently used in cut-to-size form.

How to Choose the Right Format

When deciding between slabs, tiles or cut-to-size pieces, consider:

• Budget – tiles cost less; slabs and cut-to-size involve higher labor
• Design intent – bookmatching, vein-matching and large surfaces often require slabs
• Installation method – tiles are easy; cut-to-size requires precise coordination
• Stone type – some stones (e.g., onyx) are rarely used as small tiles

For help selecting the right option, explore our Products page or contact us through the contact page.