SKU: NST-Slate

Slate Tiles

Slate is an appealing natural stone for blacks, grays, and mineral greens.  It is a versatile stone that can be used for kitchens, bathrooms, interior floors and walls, and exterior applications.  We carefully curate a selection of slate tiles and slabs that are technically more durable than other slates.  We carry in stock the slates shown here, but other slate items are available by special order.

Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock from a shale-type sedimentary rock composed of clay or volcanic ash, depending on the area of origin and the subsoil there.  It can contain quartz, calcite, feldspar, hematite, pyrite, and other minerals.  Slate is a durable stone with an attractive appearance.

Slate is known for its slaty cleavage.  Foliation in slate is caused by the parallel orientation of platy minerals in the rock.  These parallel mineral grain alignments give slate the ability to break smoothly along planes of foliation.  This allows slate to be produced in thin sheets used in construction.

Slate is commonly used for exterior applications, as it absorbs minimal moisture, and stands up well to freezing conditions.  Slate is also used for interior flooring and walls.

Most slates are gray, ranges from light to dark gray.  Slate also occurs in green, red, black, purple, and brown.  The color is often determined by the amount and type of iron and organic material found in the rock.

We hand select our slate to assure the best look and texture.  Because stone is a product of nature, no two pieces are alike.  Slate from different locations can result in different looks.  Stop by or order a sample to confirm the look you want.  When the right stone is chosen, and composed in the right way, lava stone can be one of the most unique stones for interior and exterior surfaces.

 

Product Type

Field Tile, Slab

Material

Stone

Usage

Exterior Wall, Interior Floor, Interior Wall, Shower Floor, Shower Wall

Collection

Earth

Color

Black, Gray, Green

Material Surface Size

Over 24", Slab, Up to 24"

Finish

Brushed, Honed, Light Brush, Naturally Aged, Rustic, Satin, Textured

Style

Contemporary

Tile Thickness

1/2", 1/4"

bring your Interior to life with unique surfaces:

The finish materials you use for your interior surfaces can become some of the most important focal points.  Using a carefully selected stone for  interior floors and walls, and other surfaces, can add the unique tactile effect that exudes beauty, sophistication, and luxury.  Take advantage of our carefully curated stone options to introduce a new standard.

USES:

Slate can be used for flooring and wall surfaces, both for indoor and outdoor applications.

Color Range

Slate is a natural stone with colors based on the location it comes from and the minerals available.  Slate is often dark black to medium gray, but greens and light grays are also available.  Some tiles show contrasting colors, creating a more rustic aesthetic.

Slate can exhibit mild color variation from slab to slab and tile to tile, so selecting specific stones is important.

Grain & Visual Pattern:

Slate’s visual variations allow for a range of aesthetics.  It can be smooth and refined, or textured with a rugged appearance.

Carefully selecting the pattern on the slate for your project is recommended to achieve a tailored look.

Texture and Finish:

Slate has a naturally rough texture due to its “slaty cleavage.”  Therefore, it is suitable for:

  • a natural finish
  • a rustic finish with a rough texture

The texture of slate can also be reduced, providing a smooth and even texture, making it great for:

  • a satin finish
  • a light brush finish
  • a smooth, mechanically sanded finish

Due to the different colors and patterns found in different stones, the right finish will depend on the specific stones you choose.

Environmental

We believe when the building industry sources and manufactures building materials with sustainability in mind, we all live in a healthier world, and we want to do our part.  Slate tiles are ecologically friendly.  They do not contain any VOCs, and are better than their non eco-friendly counterparts.

abrasion resistance: LOW

Slate has low abrasion resistance.  It rates 1-3 on the Mohs hardness scale.  Light scratching will occur with exposure to sand and other abrasives. The finish will dull or patina over time as a result of this scratching.

Absorption: Moderate

Slate has a low to moderate absorption rate.  Always seal slate prior to use.  Oil and highly pigmented liquids can penetrate and stain slate.  To reduce the appearance of stains, wipe up spills immediately.

Acid Sensitivity: Minimal

Slate is minimally sensitive to acids.  It will not acid etch or lose its surface sheen when exposed to acidic liquids like tomatoes or lemons.

Freeze-thaw: resistant

Due to slate’s minimal absorption rating and robust tensile strength, it is suitable for all exterior applications where freeze-thaw cycles are a concern.  Consult an engineer for thickness requirements and fastening systems for your project.  Slate will patina over time.

Performance
TEST
U.S. Measurement
International measurement
Mohs Hardness: 3-4
Bulk Density 2,580 kg/m³
Water absorption at atmospheric pressure 1.48%
Breaking strength 990 N
Slip Resistance 33/35
Flammability A1fl/A1
Frost resistance 6.4 MPA
Resistance to thermal shock .03%/3.5%
Resistance to abrasion 15.9 MM
Uniaxial compressive strength 155 MPA
Flexural Strength 6.6 MPA
BULK Commercial Pricing

Because we have become known for our unique material selection, we do sell stone slabs and tiles to third parties.  If you are working on a large project and in need of large amounts, we can offer great pricing for bulk orders.  We can also finish the stone for your project.  However, all of our stone is hand selected for superior appearance and performance, so contact us to confirm availability and to receive a quote.

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