The Advantages of Slate Flooring

Homeowners are always looking for the latest in floor trends and technology, especially as floors serve as the building blocks of any home. It can be hard to invest a lot of money in quality flooring, but the money put forth is well worth it. Not only will you end up with beautiful floors that will stand the test of time, but also floors that will complement your lifestyle and not need to be replaced in a few short years. There are many types of flooring that get a lot of attention such as laminate, hardwood and ceramic tile. But there are many exotic styles to choose from that can make your home look just as lovely, while providing you with a sound floor. One of these options is slate. Slate floors do not get the recognition they deserve, mainly because they can be quite costly and some versions require regular sealing. This should not deter you from slate floors however, as they offer many wonderful benefits that you will enjoy for years to come. The more you know about slate, the better decision you can make regarding whether these floors are right for your home. Slate is a type of stone floor and falls under this category along with granite, marble and limestone. Slate is more affordable than granite and marble and offers the same natural beauty. What makes slate so attractive is that each piece offers its own unique details. No two pieces are the same and when the slate tiles are put together, the floor looks like a giant piece of artwork. Slate is perfect for all types of homes, whether you have a contemporary dwelling or more traditional décor. Its versatility allows it to be an ideal choice for any family. The only factor to keep in mind is that slate is hard and glossy finishes can be slippery when wet. Let’s take a look at the advantages you can expect from slate. Since it’s a natural stone product, it’s resistant to bacteria and doesn’t harbor allergens. It’s beautiful in its natural form, which means you don’t need to wax the floor. Some styles do need to be sealed however, depending on the version of slate. For a more rugged appearance, you can install slate tiles that will not need to be waxed or sealed, thus making them easier and inexpensive to care for. However, if you need added stain and water resistance, sealants will be necessary. Slate can be installed just about anywhere and is ideal in heavy traffic areas such as kitchens, hallways and entryways. These are also the areas where the flooring is most commonly installed, as these are spaces that do best with hard floors. Although the surface appears to be rugged and textured, it actually has a smooth surface. With it being moisture and stain resistant, it can also be installed in rooms that are prone to spills and moisture such as bathrooms. Once installed, slate will last a lifetime. This is why many people enjoy slate, as the high front-end cost is offset by the savings of not having to replace the floor. With little maintenance, slate will continue to look beautiful and can be complemented by any type of furniture or décor. There is a wide range of patterns and colors to choose from, and with each piece being different than the next, slate does an excellent job of blending hues together. Although some people worry about the floor being cold on the feet, a radiant heating system installed underneath will keep the floors warm during those cold winter days. The biggest drawbacks to slate flooring are that it is expensive and cannot be installed on your own. Unless you are an experienced DIY-er or professional, this job is better left to an outside person. This is because slate is quite heavy and can break or chip easily. And, the tiles need to be carefully laid with precision. If you start by installing one “off” piece, the whole floor will be distorted. The good news is that you can play a big role in how the overall floor should look, as there are a variety of shapes to choose from. If you prefer a rugged look, opt for irregular pieces that fit together in a variety of ways. With proper care and maintenance, you’ll love that your new slate floor will last forever.