Q.I am wanting the elegant look of marble on my front porch which is for the most part covered and on the north side of the home. I live in West Texas and the temperature does ocassionally drop below freezing especially at night. I have been discouraged due to the slickness and softness of the high polished marble tiles. What is your opinion and would I be better off using some type of textured tile?

A. Hello-Why not look at a honed travertine for your porch, They will look good and wear well.

Polished marble would be great if no one ever used the porch. Do  a little research and you will see what I mean.

Youmay want to look at ceramic tile as well. There is alot out there to look at. Find a good tile shop and or a contractor that understands stone. Check references.

Stu Rosen