One of the most widely used and versatile building materials in the
world, slate has earned a reputation as a reliable and decorative
natural stone. Used for interiors as floor and wall tile, as well
as for use as attractive and durable pavers, slate presents a tonally
varied, slip-resistant element to add all kinds of value to
residences and commercial areas too.
Slate is known to have textural appeal in all kinds of settings:
- living areas
- recreational rooms
- pool surrounds
- patios and gardens
- foyers
- office meeting rooms
The unique look and long term performance of slate as flooring, wall
covering, and as pavers have been staples of the building and interior
design industries for a very long time.
Origins of Slate
Slate is found in coastal regions, the result of silt from ancient
oceans being subject to tremendous pressure and heat over the course
of millions of years after these oceans have receded. The silt, soil,
and other minerals undergo a binding process which forms a very durable
material which can be identified as slate.
Colors of Slate
The colors of each variety of slate are dictated by the mineral content of
the region in which it is formed - quartz, mica, chlorite, and other
materials adding to the pattern of colors to be found in each slate slab.
These minerals also act as stabilizing agents, which accounts for the
durability of slate as well as the color.
How Slate Tile is Made
Manufacturers of slate tile and pavers make a point of making slate
relatively easy to work with and install. Slate tile is calibrated
(its back is leveled) and gauged (its corners are cut to 90º angles)
to make them more easily installed in indoor settings, or as external wall
cladding.
What "Split-Faced" Means
The surface of the slate tile is left in what is described as a split-faced
or natural face, so named because of the process whereby the slate is split
from the bed out of which it is quarried. The textured surface resulting from
this is a trademark look for slate, and part of the reason for its visual
uniqueness.
Slate is an addition that is a source of pride, enduring over generations
of use.