9 Top Advantages and Disadvantages of Slate Flooring |Cost of Slate, Uses & Applications of Slate Flooring
Advantages and Disadvantages of Slate Flooring | How Expensive is Slate Flooring ? | Benefits & Slate Stone Flooring Pros & Cons
What Is Slate Flooring?
The Slate Flooring is a natural stone that is used for flooring purposes. Slate has been used for many purposes through the centuries. It can be used as a roof, floor, and wall.
The stone is used for decoration purposes and many different arts and crafts. There is a variety of colors and patterns that can be found in some slates
Slate flooring is a great choice for your home. Slate tiles are usually around the same price as carpet tiles and can be used to add a gorgeous aesthetic to any room in your house.
Slate tile is composed primarily of the minerals quartz and feldspar, usually in the form of clay or schist. Most commercially produced slate tiles are cut from a rock formed during a metamorphic process that involves high heat and pressure that transformed shale into slate.
Slate is produced in large quantities in countries such as Serbia, Spain, China, Brazil and Germany.
Slate tiles are made from natural slate that has been cut into small tiles and laid out in a pattern. Slate tiles are durable and are very easy to clean.
Slate tiles are presentable and look similar to marble tiles in appearance. They’re also really easy to install.
If you’re looking for a durable, beautiful, easy-to-maintain flooring option, you may want to replace your carpet or hardwood floors with slate tiles.
History of Slate Tiles
Slate has a long history of use because it was formed over the long periods of time in which metamorphic rock was being pushed and heated within the Earth’s crust.
This resulted in beautiful, well-cut stone floors that are easily installed–therefore, slate is a great flooring material for homeowners who don’t have much experience installing tile floors.
The stone is made from metamorphic rock that was formed over long periods of time due to heat and pressure within the earth.
This results in a flooring material that is extremely hard, so it is resistant to scratches, scrapes, and dents. This means you can choose between horizontal or vertical stripes which work in almost any room.
Benefits & Slate Stone Flooring Pros & Cons
Slate is formed deep within the earth by the right combination of heat and pressure. Slate tile has a slightly uneven and lackluster appearance when compared to other natural stone alternatives.
This is one of the reasons it is so popular;
- It provides a slip-resistant tile for flooring. It is available in a variety of designs and hues, giving it a modern or rustic appearance and feel.
- When compared to other natural stone alternatives, slate is more stain-resistant, durable, and water-resistant.
However, if the subflooring is uneven, slate can break if heavy objects can fall on the tiles. Because slate is manufactured in layers, it has been known to peel or flake in rare situations.
As a result, it is critical that slate tile be covered with a sealant immediately after installation and that it be well maintained by reapplying sealant on a regular basis.
The pros of slate flooring include offers dark, natural, rustic, and earthy colors. When compared to other stone alternatives, it is often more durable. High-quality slate flooring has a lot of advantages. It is naturally slip and stain resistant.
Some of the cons include; Because of the performance of tile laying, the tiles may be uneven.
Uses & Applications of Slate Flooring
Slate tile can be used in a variety of locations like kitchen floors, bathrooms, and entrances.
Slate has a very durable surface.
1. Slate Floors for Kitchen
Slate tiles are ideal for kitchens because it can withstand high food temperatures and sharp objects. Slate tile flooring reduces the risk of slip and fall accidents due to its natural resistance to becoming slippery.
In addition, slate is water resistant, which makes it a good material for areas that are more exposed to water damage and leaks.
Because of this resistance to water, you will also have less chance of developing mold or mildew issues on your slate floor, which is an added benefit.
2. Slate Floors for Bathroom
Slate tiles are a common material used for bathroom floors.
They are easy to clean, durable, and resistant to water damage.
Slate is also a good choice for bathrooms because it’s easy on your feet and doesn’t get too slick when wet.
You will have fewer issues with slipping in the bathroom because slate tile does not absorb water like other types of tile flooring materials do.
Because of their durability, you do not have to worry about your slate floor wearing out over time.
It will hold up to high traffic use and wears well even with the use of children and pets.
3. Slate Floors for Entryways
Slate tiles are used on entrance floors, such as a front door or back door.
They are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to damage from moisture.
Slate is usually installed on a concrete floor.
This will help reduce water damage because you cannot install damp-proof membrane under slate tile. Slate is not very susceptible to mold and mildew issues because it’s water resistant. If you have a spill or leak, the slate will naturally grind away when it comes into contact with standing water.
4. Slate Floors for Living Areas
You can also use slate tile to make a stunning floor covering in many living areas such as bedrooms and the hallway.
Because it is hard-wearing, it can withstand furniture kicking or heavy wear and tear.
It doesn’t fade like other types of stone or wood flooring.
If you are looking for a flooring that is well-suited for foot traffic, you cannot go wrong with slate.
5. Slate Floors for Garden Flooring
Slate tiles are a common choice for garden flooring because of the durability and resistance to water damage.
You can also install slate tile without mortar to make it more secure and durable.
You will also find that it is resistant to mold and mildew issues. It cleans easily and stays sealed.
Because of the durability, you do not need to worry about your slate floor getting worn out after long periods of time.
It is also a good choice if you are looking for a floor that is easy on your feet and the feet of others who may visit your home.
You can use slate outside areas such as patios, walkways, and front entries without worrying about it getting worn out from weathering or damage.
6. Slate Floors for Dining Rooms
Slate tiles are an excellent choice for living rooms or dining areas.
They look beautiful and will last a long time with minimal care.
Slate tile is used as flooring for many homes that have a rustic, country, or traditional style design.
It fits in well with these types of homes because of the natural appearance of the stone and its resistance to water damage.
7. Slate Floors for Swingsets
If you have a swing in your backyard, you will want to consider installing slate tile on the flooring.
Slate is very durable and can withstand many years of use.
It would also be a wise choice for anyone who has young children who like to swing in the yard. It is sturdy and approved for outdoor use.
8. Slate Floors for Outdoor Areas
Some home owners like to use slate tile to make outdoor areas more stylish and comfortable.
They are very durable, resistant to water damage, and easy to clean.
It also gives a natural appearance that many homeowners like.
As a natural stone, it blends in well with your landscaping or garden design idea.
9. Slate Floors for Under Ceilings
If you have an area under your home that is not flat, you will want to install a slate floor in those rooms. It makes the room more stable and safer.
It is ideal for porch areas, basement, and crawl spaces.
You will also find it easier to clean than other types of flooring, which can be tough to reach.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Slate Flooring
1. Slate tile flooring is incredibly durable.
The stone is made from metamorphic rock that was formed over long periods of time due to heat and pressure within the earth.
This results in a flooring material that is extremely hard, so it is resistant to scratches, scrapes, and dents.
2. Slate has a naturally elegant finish.
This means you can choose between horizontal or vertical stripes which work in almost any room. Slate is perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.
This because it is easily cleaned if it becomes wet or needs to be scrubbed down occasionally.
Slate also works well in common areas such as hallways and entryways, but don’t use in the main living area of your home without first consulting with a professional designer about possible pitfalls and solutions.
3. Slate flooring water-resistant
Slate is a very water-resistant material, so it can be used in rooms with high moisture levels and high likelihoods of liquid contact, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and mudrooms. Slate tile can even be used to tile your shower.
Because slate tile flooring is so hard and resistant to moisture, it can be used both indoors and outdoors, and serves as a good material for items such as garden stepping stones or outdoor patios.
4. Slate is easy to install
You can easily lay slate tile flooring yourself using a dry-lay method in only a few hours. A good tile installer will have all the tools and materials needed for the floor installation process. For some home owners, this is their preferred way of installing slate tile flooring, because they are not experienced in tiling floors themselves or do not want to take the time to learn about tile installations.
5. Slate flooring is a natural flooring material
Slate is a natural flooring material, as opposed to synthetic options such as laminate flooring or nylon carpeting. This means that it won’t off-gas harmful volatile organic chemicals (VOCs).
In order to keep the air quality in your home really high, make sure to also use a slate sealant that is similarly low in VOCs.
6. Slate is scratch and heat resistant.
This means that the slate flooring will not easily scratch and mark, keeping the look of your room exactly as you want it in your home. Slate can be installed in kitchens, bathrooms or living rooms. If you need to install it yourself, a dry-lay installation method is preferred because it’s easy to do.
7. Slate is a very low maintenance flooring.
Slate is a very durable material, and it maintains its appearance over time. However, you may need to reseal your stone flooring every few years, especially if you live in a humid climate.
All it requires is regular sweeping to keep it clean.
The rough texture and varied coloring of slate tile flooring makes it a very forgiving flooring material.
Slate tends to hide both dirt and damage very well because of its unique appearance, so even if it does chip or get a buildup of dirt, it will be fairly unnoticeable.
8. Slate flooring has a unique aesthetic appearance
Slate has a unique aesthetic appearance that sets it apart from other flooring materials, including other natural stone flooring materials.
Slate can be found and quarried all over the world, and its appearance will change depending on the mineral composition of the soil in which it was formed.
It can range in color from dark gray and black, to inclusions of brilliant and iridescent golds reds, greens, blues, and purples. The textured, cleft surface of natural slate also provides a sought-after rustic look.
Even if you don’t want the characteristic look of slate, for example if your interior design style is more minimal and modern than rugged, you can still get slate’s durability and resistance in a sleeker look by going for honed or polished slate, which is smooth and more uniform in color.
9. Slate is resistant to chemical attacks
Natural slate is still a very tough material, and it’s resistant to chemical attacks, which makes it a good material for kitchen floors and bathrooms.
If you need a smooth finish that is easy to clean, polished slate tile is an excellent choice.
Slate is also a great flooring material for people with allergies, as it is easy to clean and unlike carpet, it won’t cling to harmful allergens.
The advantages of slate tile are numerous, but there are a few disadvantages as well. Slate tile requires more maintenance than other stone floorings.
Disadvantages of Slate Flooring
The advantages of slate tile are numerous, but there are a few disadvantages as well.
1. Slate tile is a relatively expensive choice
While slate tile flooring is more affordable than many other natural stone flooring options, it is still on the pricier side.
Slate can cost anywhere between $4.00 and $16.00 per square foot, much higher than flooring options like rubber flooring, vinyl, or laminate.
The initial investment will be higher than most other types of flooring. Depending on the thickness of the material, the cost per square foot can range from 10-30% more than other materials.
2. Slate tiles don’t have insulating properties
Slate tile is not a material with insulating properties, so it can get too hot in places that experience high temperatures all year long, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
3. Slate flooring doesn’t hold up well to water damage over time.
If it becomes wet or you have a leak, it can develop mold and mildew. If this happens, you will have to replace the entire floor to get rid of the problem.
4. Slate is more difficult to install
Slate is more difficult to install than other materials for floors because it is very heavy and large in size, which can be problematic when installing in small areas.
In addition, when you are laying slate, you have to be sure to use the right adhesive for your flooring. Use an epoxy or polyurethane adhesive that will adhere well and withstand any movement in the flooring material.
Another problem with installing slate is that it has a cleft surface, meaning it can be hard to get even and flat, so if you need a large area, you may have to spend more money getting them set on an incline in order for it to look right.
5. Slate flooring is more expensive to maintain
Maintenance can be a little higher with this material than with other materials. Because it is cleaner and easier to sweep, you will have fewer issues to clean and maintain. However, this is an area where there are many alternatives and you can find ways to lessen the cost of upkeep.
You will have to do more maintenance to keep it polished and free of water damage, which can prove difficult if you don’t have the time or money.
In addition, you may need to switch out your slate flooring more often because of its porous nature, which makes it more susceptible to damage from water. You’ll need to regularly clean and maintain in order for it to look as nice as any other natural stone or tile flooring option.
Your slate will still need sealing, but you can use a sealer that has fewer VOCs than most other types of sealers.
A good sealant will act as a barrier to help protect the slate from water damage, which can reduce maintenance because you won’t need to constantly clean up water damage.
6. Slate tile is heavier than other types of flooring material.
Slate weighs much more than any other type of flooring material in its thickness.
This means that you will need extra support when installing.
When installing the tiles, you can use a special slate cement to bond them securely.
Another solution is to place flooring underlayment’s on them so that they are securely attached to a surface, such as hardwood or concrete. This will give the tile flooring a stable base and help keep it in place.
7. Slate tile is susceptible to damage from moisture damage.
If the tiles become wet or there is a leak, it can rot and deteriorate with time.
You will need to make sure that your slate isn’t in an area that will get wet regularly, such as a kitchen or bathroom.
If you know your slate is prone to leaking, you can install it in places where it won’t be damaging. For example, you could place it outside so that any leaking will go to the ground rather than into your home.
Slate is not the most durable, but it is porous and can need to be sealed regularly.
You will need to install a sealer on slate before you apply any type of top coat.
You can also seal your floor so that moisture won’t seep in by installing a flood panel or underlayment over the entire floor.
8. Slate flooring material are solid and hard
Because slate is such a hard flooring material, it can be painful to stand on for long periods of time.
Furthermore, the rough, cleft surface of natural slate can be painful to walk on barefoot.
Unlike materials such as carpet, cork, or hardwood, slate tends to be quite cold underfoot, so it might not be comfy to walk on during cold winter mornings.
9. Slate Tile Flooring is quite brittle
While slate is a very hard flooring material, it is also quite brittle, so if something heavy is dropped on it, the tile is likely to break.
How Expensive Is Slate Flooring Compared to Tile Flooring?
Slate flooring is typically more expensive than tile flooring. It is also double lapped to create a waterproof layer, which raises the installation cost.
However, its long-lasting characteristics usually mean that after the initial expenditure, you will have relatively little roof costs for many years to come.
Slate tiles can cost anywhere from $4 to $20 per square foot, with the majority falling between $4 and $10. They cost about the same as ceramic or porcelain tiles, which vary from $5 to $9 per square foot.
Is It Necessary to Seal Slate Flooring?
Because slate is porous, it can absorb substances that leave permanent stains. Some people believe that sealing slate tiles changes their natural appearance.
However, sealing the tile prevents the inevitable stains and blots from gathering and keeps the flooring appearing new, whether a shiny or matte-finish sealant is used.