Slate
Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock derived
from clays and shale. It splits neatly into thin sheets and has
a naturalistic, rough and uneven appearance. It is typically cut
into squares or chooped, which gives the edges a rougher look.
it is usuallu blue-grey with a silvery quality.
Slate tiles have fallen out of favour somewhat with homeowners
in recent years soa are thus not widely available. Slate is easier
to care for than other types of natural stone tiles, since it
is denser and darker in colour, and thus less porous and less
inclined to show up stains.
As it is so varied it can be used successfully
anywhere that calls for a hard-wearing and practical surface.
Slate tiles are suitable for use both indoors and outdoors. Inside
you'll most likely find them in a hallway or kitchen. Slate must
be cut and installed by proffesionals. It requires twice as much
adhesive and grouting as other types of tile, since the tiles
are uneven and need to be brought up to the same level. This involves
a process known as 'lipping'. once laid slate will need to be
sealed, which can intensify the colour.
Slate is less expensive than other natural
stone tiles, though the process og tiling can be more costly since
the size of the tiles varies throughout the batch and the tiler
may have to spend more time choosing the right tiles.
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