Slate is a fine-grained rock formed by the composition of mud and stone sediment. Being a natural material, slate is found beneath the earth’s surface in many countries throughout the world. With subtle variations in color and texture, slate resonates warm undertones and rustic charm. A metamorphic rock, slate forms from the low-grade metamorphosis of the sedimentary rock, shale (“mudstone”). Like its precursor, slate is a very fine-grained rock consisting of microscopic clay minerals combined with microscopic quartz and calcite. Some slates also contain a few of the minerals found in granite, resulting in iridescent or hard surfaces. The alteration of shale by heat and pressure produces the pronounced partings (cleavage) that give slate its layered characteristics.
Uses for Slate
- Interior and exterior flooring
- Walls
- Roofing materials
- Other special applications
Finishes for Slate
Natural: Cutting along the natural layers creates an uneven, undulating surface.
Polished: A similar process used as honed finish in order to remove the uneven layers naturally created and give it a smooth finish.
Tumbled: Rounding edges and corners achieves an antique look
Sizes of Slate
- Tiles 12 x 12
- Tiles 16 x 16
- Slab
- Irregular Shapes
- Roofing Slates (available by special order only).
Special Considerations
Natural shade variations are inherent in slate. Be sure to inspect multiple samples of the stone before selection to ensure satisfaction with colors and patterns. Shalling (material splitting from the surface) is possible. This will cease over time.
Maintaining/Cleaning your Slate
- Do clean slate with a dust mop and neutral cleaner to remove most dirt.
- Do use a penetrating sealer to prevent staining. Because slate is quite porous, excessive water may cause reactions such as oxidation (rust), etc. “Special Impregnating” sealers are recommended to avoid these problems. Aeon Stone + Tile representatives can suggest appropriate sealers.
- Do clean natural stones with “special stone cleaners”, “pH balanced cleaners” or “neutral base cleaners”.
- Do not clean any natural stone with acidic cleaners, including (but not limited to) vinegar or cleaners with “lemon” or “lime” on the label. These products will abrade the polish from the stone. Sealers DO NOT protect polished surfaces from these types of cleaners.