Checklist for Successful Marble and Natural Stone Projects

A successful marble or natural stone project—whether it features Turkish marble, travertine, limestone, onyx or granite—depends on careful planning, correct material selection and close coordination with a reliable supplier. This checklist helps architects, contractors and developers minimize risk and ensure excellent results.

If you are new to Turkish stones, start here: Introduction to Turkish Natural Stones.

1. Define the Project Requirements Clearly

• Intended application (floors, walls, countertops, façades)
• Required stone type and preferred color range
• Thickness (most commonly 2 cm or 3 cm)
• Finish type (polished, honed, brushed, sandblasted, etc.)
• Quantities in m², linear meters or piece counts

Explore finish types: Understanding Stone Finishes.

2. Select the Right Material

The choice between marble, travertine, limestone or granite depends on the design intent and technical needs. Browse the full selection of Turkish stones here:

View All Stone Products

Helpful comparisons: Choosing Between Marble, Travertine, Limestone & Granite.

3. Review Samples and Color Ranges

Before approving production, inspect stone samples or high-resolution photos to understand the natural variation. For premium stones like Afyon White, Mugla White, Milas Lilac or Elazig Cherry, sample approval is essential.

More guidance: How to Request & Evaluate Samples.

4. Confirm Dimensional Requirements

Ensure that slabs, tiles or cut-to-size pieces meet industry standards and project specifications.

Learn more: Dimensional Tolerances for Stone Tiles.

5. Verify Installation Details Early

• Substrate preparation
• Adhesives and mortar selection
• Movement joint planning
• Edge details and transitions

Technical articles: Substrates & Adhesives
Movement Joints in Stone Floors

6. Plan for Production & Lead Times

Turkish quarries and factories operate on specific production windows. Lead times vary based on stone type, order size and finishing requirements. Early confirmation ensures smoother scheduling and delivery.

Related reading: Project Timelines for Stone Supply.

7. Understand Packing & Logistics

Proper packaging—crates, bundles or pallets—is crucial to protect marble and natural stone during transport. Export logistics must consider route, climate and destination handling.

Essential guides:

• Packing Systems
• Container Loading Methods
• INCOTERMS for Stone Projects

8. Inspect Materials on Delivery

Upon arrival, check color consistency, thickness, polishing quality, edges and any potential shipping damage.

Learn more: How to Inspect & Store Deliveries.

9. Plan for Maintenance

Natural stones require proper sealing, cleaning and periodic care to preserve their beauty for decades.

Maintenance article: Marble Maintenance Guide.