As the trends around natural, sustainable stone continue to grow, slate is an easy choice for both homes and businesses. It is a durable and stylish choice that can add a touch of elegance to any room. The dark colors coordinate with a variety of design choices, making it more classic than trendy.

There are several benefits of using slate in your home, both indoor and outdoor spaces. You also have many different colors or finishing options to perfectly match your home’s needs.

Durability

One of the main benefits of slate is its durability. It is a hard, dense stone that is resistant to scratches and stains. This makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Additionally, slate is non-porous, which means it does not absorb liquids or stains easily, making it easy to clean and maintain.

This durability is also why it works well for outdoor spaces and patios: it will look great year after year, no matter the weather.

Design Flexibility

Slate comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a versatile choice for any design style. It can range from black, to light gray and shades of green and purple. The natural variations in the stone give it a unique and organic look. Additionally, slate can be cut and shaped to fit any space, making it a great option for custom designs.

Types of Slate: Cleft vs. Honed

The type of slate you choose will depend on your application. You can use slate for kitchen countertops, bathroom tiles, fireplace hearths, outdoor tiles, and more. So, ask to see both of these options when you’re visiting our showroom, and learn why we might suggest one or the other.

Cleft: Cleft slate has a rough, textured surface that is natural to the stone. It is often used for flooring and outdoor applications, as it provides excellent slip resistance. 

Honed: Honed slate, on the other hand, has a smooth surface that is easy to clean. It is often used for countertops and other indoor or outdoor applications.

Maintenance

Slate countertops and tiles require very little maintenance. They should be cleaned with a mild detergent and water, and then dried with a soft cloth. They should also be treated to protect them from stains and scratches. We recommend the Original Slate Oil™️ , which is food safe and keeps your slate looking great. For floor, patio steps or exterior commercial applications we recommend Sikagard 740W.

This natural stone adds character to any living space, and the dark color complements many different kitchen styles, from traditional to contemporary.

If you’re interested in slate for a renovation, call Garden State Soapstone & Slate to schedule a visit to our showroom. We’ll show you all the options for your home and demonstrate the easy maintenance of this natural stone.