Some of the simplest materials used in flooring are those which require
little alteration from their natural form. To this, it can be said that the
earth itself is often the most reliable manufacturers of tile flooring you can
name. One particular variety of natural stone flooring that is becoming more and
more popular is slate. The popularity of slate tile can be attributed to many
factors, although versatility of slate tile is certainly one of the more obvious
ones. Slate tile can be used practically anywhere from a kitchen, to a front
hallway, to a bathroom, and in outdoor uses such as pool surrounds and patio
tile.
In addition to this versatility, slate features one of the
most naturally slip-resistant surfaces available.
For areas where this is
important - in the front entrance way of a commercial or public property, or
in a bathroom where wetness is expected, for instance - slate delivers one
of the most durable and decorative surfaces available, as well as being a
highly practical surface to greatly reduce the possibility of slipping on
your floor. So, as you can see, slate tile flooring certainly offers a wide
range of advantages. But where does slate come from exactly, and how is it
prepared for use as tile?
Origins and nature of slate
Slate is found in large deposits most commonly concentrated in continental
coastal regions. These areas are where ancient oceans collected silt and other
mineral elements which remain long after these oceans have receded. The material
elements left behind in these former ocean beds - soil, clay and other random
minerals - are exposed to tremendous pressures and heat over the course of
millennia. The heat and pressure to which these materials are subject forge them
into a rugged, naturally durable stone we recognize as slate. The minerals that
are often found in slate - quartz, mica, chlorite, and others - act as
stabilizing agents, allowing the slate to be very resistant to all kinds of
stresses. This mixture of random materials explains the naturally varied hues
from tile to tile, given that the mineral content in the stone will be equally
varied. The harsh beginnings of slate tile makes for a very durable, and
visually striking material that is highly suitable for flooring for an inside or
outside project.
Gauge and calibration of slate tile flooring In addition to being durable and decorative, slate tiles are often
designed to be easy to work with for an experienced tile installer as well. It
is important to many manufacturers to make installing slate tile as simple a
process as is possible for a material that remains largely unchanged from its
natural state. Two of the processes that allows this is gauge and calibration of
the slate tile. Gauge refers to a process whereby the edges of the slate tile
are made square by precision cutting. This simple process allows the slate tile
to be an interlocking material that will be more easily interlocked with other
tiles. In addition, the process of calibration involves making the back of the
slate tile as even as possible by means of machine-honing it to be smooth or
ribbed depending on type. The process of calibration is important in making sure
that the slate tile will lay flat when installed. This too is designed for ease
of installation, as well as a positive result in terms of an even walking
surface.
Split-face slate tile flooring One of the most popular choices in slate tile flooring is the natural
face, or split-face slate tile. The "split" in split-face refers to where the
slate has been removed, or split, from the slate bed. Therefore, this variety of
slate tile maintains the natural, unevenly textured surface that makes slate
tile distinct from other varieties of natural stone. Split-face slate tile
flooring is also one of the best choices you can make if you are looking for a
slip-resistant surface. Also, this type of slate tile flooring has a tactile
dimension all of its own, adding a sensuous character to a slate tile floor that
is an additional feature to the rich color.
Color variation in slate tile flooring and the "dry run" As it has been mentioned earlier, slate is made up of random elements,
and there are natural color variations to be expected in every batch of slate
tile. No slate tile floor is identical to any other. If you're looking for a
chance to let your designer's eye guide your flooring project, you will have
made a great choice in slate tile flooring. Once you've ordered your slate tile
and you've had the batch delivered, it is a good idea to open all of the boxes
to see the range of color that is unique to your shipment. Once again, no slate
tile flooring project is the same as the next, so this is your chance to explore
the layout possibilities in a "dry run". This involves laying out your slate
tile without applying the mortar, to help you get the best visual result. The
natural variations from tile to tile in this sense is a significant advantage to
the overall effect your slate tile flooring project will have on your interior
or exterior. This "dry run", and the opening of all boxes you get, will also
help you in the case of thickness variation in the slate tile as well.
Thickness variation in slate tile flooring It must be noted that there will often be a thickness variation from
tile to tile. It's a good idea to discuss this with your local flooring
professionals, or your slate tile sales rep. They can often be helpful to you
when you are thinking of using slate, but are uncertain about some of these
details that characterize natural stone surfaces. The thickness variation is
often presented in a range of 3/8"-7/16", for instance. Again, your sales rep or
other flooring professional can help you with the specifics of your chosen line
of slate tile flooring.
Slate tile flooring adds strength and class
The popular use of slate tile flooring in many areas of residential and
commercial interiors and exteriors is a tribute to it's versatility and
aesthetic value. With its distinctive surface, ease of installation and
workability, decorative color variation, and its natural slip-resistance that
makes it a great choice for practicality and look. With slate, you're always
have firm footing!
Slate tile flooring do's and don'ts
Do: Consider the area in which you wish to install your slate tile flooring
and be sure that the type of slate you choose to buy is appropriate with regard
to climate, foot traffic, and any other pertinent factors.
Consider the substrate over which you will install your slate tile, and make
sure that it is suitable for your specific choice. Always ask your sales rep
about the suitability of your substrate in relation to the slate tile product
you buy.
Expect color variations, and use them to your advantage when approaching the
layout of your slate tile.
Read all warranty information provided, and any other instructions or
information pertinent to your slate tile flooring purchase.
Layout your slate tile flooring in a dry run, and test the color patterns,
thickness variation, and overall spacing of your particular batch of slate.
Use a type of mortar for slate tile that is conducive to your interior or
exterior installation. Seek advice from sales reps as to specific brands and
varieties of mortar and always read the instructions on any products you buy.
Choose a appropriate slate tile flooring sealant. Some varieties you might
consider are high-gloss (which gives your slate tile a lustrous "wet look"), low
sheen (which is reflective, but not as shiny as high-gloss), or no sheen,
sometimes known as natural finish. The look that these finishes provide are down
to taste, but (once again) it's a good idea to make sure that your sealant is
suitable for slate tile.
Hire an experienced flooring professional if you don't have experience in laying
slate tile yourself. This can help you to avoid costly mistakes.
Don't: Forget to allow for breakage and waste when you place your order.
Accidents can happen, both in transit and on the job site
Use slate tile as a paver on sand. Slate tile must be installed on a solid
substrate with mortar
Fail to inspect your substrate for loose materials or dirt. It is important to
have a clear, clean and level substrate for a slate tile flooring installation
Install slate tile flooring on a wet surface. Despite the resilient nature of
slate, trapped moisture remains to be something to be avoided in any
installation
Apply a sealer to a slate tile floor that has been waxed or oiled but has not
yet cured. The resulting marks left by walking on a slate tile floor that hasn't
cured can be difficult to remove later
Begin grouting too soon. It's a good idea to wait at least a day before grouting
your slate tile in order to allow the mortar to properly set.
Forget to use safety goggles and other equipment when cutting slate tile.
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About the Author: Rob Jones is Communications Coordinator with
BuildDirect, a leading online wholesaler of building products. Rob writes
articles for commercial contractors and DIYers on features, installation, and
maintenance of building materials used in commercial and residential projects.
These articles focus on materials such as flooring, decking, roofing, and
siding.
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