More and more slate tile flooring is being used in many residential as well as commercial interiors and exteriors simply because it is extremely adaptable and has a great aesthetic quality to it once laid.
The great thing about slate tile flooring is that it is extremely workable, is easy to install and comes in a wide range of beautiful color variations, as well as having that distinctive look and feel to its surface. It also comes with its own built-in natural slip resistance, which makes it the practical choice for such areas as the kitchen or bathroom in a home.
Most of the slate quarried today can be found in large concentrations in coastal regions around Europe. This is because the silt and mineral elements have collected here over the centuries once the oceans have receded and have then become exposed to tremendous pressure and heat. This pressure and heat then forges all the elements together in order to form this naturally durable but very rugged stone.
When you are looking to lay slate tile flooring in your home there are a number of things which need to be considered in order to select the right kind of slate.
1. Location. It is important that you look at the room where it is going to be installed. Consider the color theme and decorative style of the room, as well as the amount of traffic that is likely to pass over it. Another important factor to look at is the likelihood of spills, for example in the bathroom or kitchen.
2. Substrate. Check what the flooring underneath where you are going to lay it is like. It is important to do this check before you make your purchase so you can inform the sales staff at the flooring store and they will be able to tell you what type of slate is a good match for your substrate.
3. Sealant. You should choose a slate tile sealant depending on what type of look you want your slate flooring to have. You can choose one which provides a wet or lustrous look to the final floor or one that has a low sheen or no sheen at all.
4. Installation. Before you actually start to install the slate tile flooring, it is good to carry out a dry run first. This is where you lay the slate tiles on the floor without any adhesive below and look at the way the colors vary across each slate and place them in such a way that they look good together. It also provides you with a chance to work out the overall spacing of each tile and the exact number of slates you will need in order to complete the task.
