There is something really cool about using natural stones in construction. It makes the space feel a little more unique. Having that commodity product in your home is like giving your space a story to tell, where is it from, how old is it, what did it take to get it here in my home? Slate is a metaphoric rock that is formed from volcanic ash and clay. The foliation (Layering) allows it to be broken apart into sheets that were used as shingles in early 19th century and even earlier as a writing surface where the term “clean slate” came from. That being said there are some things to consider before choosing a natural stone for your home.
- Durability: Though slate is a highly durable stone it has potential to stain, crack, flake or chip. High traffic area’s are more prone to this type of damage so consider this carefully when thinking of your space. Another thing to think about is if you will be standing for longer periods of time on your slate flooring. Since this stone is a hard metamorphic rock, areas where you stand often may not be the best place to use this stone. One really great aspect of the durability is that it can last several years without needing to be replaced and can withstand water and rough wear and tear if maintained properly.
- Maintenance: Slate is a very porous surface which means it is able to absorb moisture. It is important to seal slate to avoid staining. Your next question may be how often you need to seal your slate. This depends on how much traffic your slate sees. If your slate is in a high traffic area you may want to do it every 1-2 years. If it is in a lower traffic area you can go 4-5 years between sealing. You also may want to consider how you plan to keep slate clean. With its ridges and unevenness, it can be tougher to clean and keep clean. It’s not a flooring that would easily be Swiffered. You should plan to clean it with a soft washcloth and soapy water or with a soft bristled mop. Allow to dry complete before walking on it. On the other hand, since slate typically comes in more earthy tones, the need to keep it sparkling is minimal.
3. Color Variation: Slate comes in different shades from cool to warm tones. Some people prefer to mix these tones or keep the same tones together. If you’re looking for consistency then slate may not be the material for you. You can expect slight color differences within the same tones, veining, and different textures with each piece that you get. This is what adds to the character and the story of the natural stone.
4. Expense: Another thing to consider is the expense of slate products. Now, it is important to understand that there may be some products out there that are indeed natural slate but could be a poor quality slate. If you are looking to install slate chances are you are looking for a durable and long lasting high quality product. I always recommend using a tile supplier rather than a big box store to ensure the quality of the product. Also, tile installation of slate is typically going to be more expensive. Since the slate pieces vary in size and shape it can be very hard and time consuming to install, therefore making it more expensive to install. Consider this when choosing your slate and the area you are thinking of using it in.
5. The last thing you should know about slate is that it is a quality high end material that will last. It is typically very aesthetically pleasing and a style that is timeless. If you are planning to make the investment, you can rest assured that this classic look will be around for a long time and can be a great selling point in your home.
If you’re thinking slate is for you then go for it! If some of these qualities has you thinking you want the look of slate without the maintenance and a more affordable option check out our slate look a-like post found HERE
