Slate has been used a building material for many thousands of years. Not only is slate strong and durable, but it also has an inherent natural beauty. In addition to the attributes mentioned, slate is one of the less expensive building products available.

The places where you can use slate are practically endless. Its versatility enables it to work as effectively on a roof as it does for patios and internal flooring, and it lasts for decades.

Slate has a natural color; there are no manmade color additives which is why every piece of slate looks different. You probably think of slate as being grey in color, but depending on where it is sourced it can be light blue, yellow, brown or a reddish color. Slate also reacts to light, so during the course of the day the colors change slightly and if it rains, the color alters again.

You can purchase slate in tile form, ready to use, or you can purchase it in smaller broken pieces enabling you to create any design you want. It a good choice for patio and poolside areas, as it is naturally non-slip making it safe. Although slate is sealed for internal use such as in places like the kitchen, bathroom or stairs, its natural texture still makes it non-slip.

Once laid, slate requires little or no maintenance; in fact it looks better as it ages, which can’t be said for many manmade materials. Its waterproof once sealed, mold proof and fire proof, making it ideal for any home environment. It’s also an excellent insulator, so despite what you may think, slate isn’t cold to walk on with bare feet, although dark colored slate does get rather warm in direct sunlight.

Where ever you decide to use slate you can guarantee it will make a lasting impression. Slate roofs have a certain geometrically pleasing look while slate flooring looks elegant and precise. However, its beauty isn’t reflected in the price; it is cheap in comparison with many other products and you can be sure slate will probably outlast them.

When thinking about the design of your slate flooring consider using a variety of colors. No matter what color slate tiles are they blend together to form brilliant patterns. Imagination is the key to an attractive elegant slate floor.

Remember, you don’t have to just use slate for roofing and flooring. Slate tiling works equally well on kitchen worktops. They don’t stain, they’re easy to clean and no matter how hot something is, it won’t burn or leave any mark.

Externally, use slate to build a fountain or water feature. Build a bench using slate near your pool or pond, so you can sit and relax.

You want your slate flooring to last a long time, so it’s essential you get it laid professionally. While the slate itself will last a lifetime, if it’s not professionally laid then cracks will appear between the tiles. Water then seeps inside the cracks and the tiles move making the surface uneven and potentially dangerous.

We recommend Virginia Slate which carries the largest slate inventory on the East Coast.

We recommend http://www.virginiaslate.com which carries the largest slate inventory on the East Coast. http://www.virginiaslate.com/inventory/flooring.html

Author Bio: We recommend Virginia Slate which carries the largest slate inventory on the East Coast.

Category: Advice
Keywords: Home, Repair, Environment, Construction, Advise, Tips