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
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 sidin
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