Slate Tile Finish
The vibrant colors and unique texture makes slate tile an exceptional interior flooring alternative. Slate is formed of compressed layers of sediments formed under the ocean. Its tough composition makes it resistant to fading, scratches, and even chemicals. Although it needs to be sealed regularly, slate tiles last virtually forever with a little maintenance. With over 25 color options to choose from, slate tile can make a wonderful addition to any room, even those in colder climates.
A finish unique to slate compared to other stone types. A natural and pleasingly textured surface created when freshly quarried slate is manually split into sheets. The fan of the cleft is unique to slate and starts when the first hit of the chisel started the split.
A stone finish achieved by putting the stones in a machin that “tumbles” the stones around together causing an uneven rough surface and edges. The finish has a rustic appeal.
A stone finish that gives a smooth, even appearance with a high polished gloss.
A stone finish that gives a smooth, even appearance without a high polished gloss.
Because slates have high color variation, natural slate tiles from various boxes are laid down to check the distribution of color prior to installation. This ensures an aesthetic consistency in your design.
In many climates, the day is warm but night temperatures can drop below freezing. In such climates, snow can melt during the day and water can seep in between layers of slate. Then, when the temperature drops at night, the water expands, opening up the slate layers and deteriorating the slate. When selecting slate for your outdoor space, keep in mind that not all slates are freeze/thaw resistant.
Due to the natural clefts in stone, processed stone tiles often have marginal variations in sizes and thickness. This variation is part of the beauty of natural materials. Below are the industry-accepted margins for variation:
- Natural Cleft Material, +/- 1/8 inch.
- Flat Surface (Hon/Pol) Material, +/- 1/16 inch.