Slate is a stone that is created by the link of clay and silt particles through high pressure and temperatures. The material that results from this is a stone that is long lasting and virtually impassable by liquids.
Available in many colors, slate tile is also obtainable in a vast selection of greens, grays, red, rust and deep charcoal. Not only that, but slate is a slip resistant stone which makes it ideal for flooring.
When you want to purchase your slate tile floors, it is important that you purchase as many as possible at one time. This way you can maintain a consistent look. You will find that when you are purchasing your slate, colors and patterns that may look the same, in fact vary.
Before installing slate floor tiles, it is important that you remove all of the old floor tiles. If you simply place your new slate floor tiles over the old one you may experience movement, which could cause cracking and shifting in your new tiles.
Play close attention to your floor area and make sure that before you install your new slate tile that it will all be resting on the same level. If you have any cracks to repair use mortar.
When you are ready to begin putting down your slate tile floors, grab a tape measure and also a piece of chalk, which you will use to draw an “X” in the middle of your room.
Next, you will need to begin placing the slate tiles along those lines. Purchase spacers and permit 3/8 of an inch that will be between the tiles. This will allow for any expansion so your slate tiles will not crack.
However, the grout between the tiles will be different from the mortar that was used to reinforce the tile to the floor. Grout is subsequently made from a latex material that provides a rubbery reliability for tiny amounts of movement.
One of the advantages about slate tile floors is the fact that they are especially easy to look after. There is no need to wax it or to place a sealant on it, as it looks wonderful naturally and does not stain.
However if you do decide to cover your slate tile with sealer, make sure that you let 24 hours pass before stepping on your new slate flooring.