sedimentary rock, shale (“mud stone”). Like its precursor, slate is a very fine-
grained rock consisting of microscopic clay minerals combined with
microscopic quartz and calcite. Some slates also contain a few of the
minerals found in granite, resulting in iridescent or hard surfaces. The
alteration of shale by heat and pressure produces the pronounced partings
(cleavage) that give slate its layered characteristics.
Slate’s color originates from trace metals present during its formation. The
colors visible in most slates are the result of splitting the stone along natural
layers, exposing the metals to the atmosphere and allowing them to oxidize
(rust). The natural color variations in slate enhance the beautiful details that
make each installation a unique showpiece.
USES
• Interior and exterior flooring
• Walls
• Roofing materials
• other special applications
TYPES
• Natural Cleft (ungauged / uncalibrated): Cutting along the natural layers
creates an uneven, undulating surface.
• Calibrated (gauged): Cutting each piece to a relatively uniform thickness.
• Tumbled: Rounding edges and corners achieves an antique look.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
• Natural shade variations are inherent in slate. Be sure to inspect multiple
samples of the stone before selection to ensure satisfaction with colors and
patterns.
• Shaling (material splitting from the surface) is possible. This will cease
over time.
MAINTENANCE
~Do clean slate with a dust mop and neutral cleaner to remove most dirt.
~Do use a penetrating sealer to prevent staining. Because slate is quite
porous, excessive water may cause reactions such as oxidation (rust),
spalling, deterioration of dry veins, etc. “Special Impregnating” sealers are
recommended to avoid these problems.
~ Do clean natural stones with “special stone cleaners”, “pH balanced
cleaners” or “neutral base cleaners.”
~Do not clean any natural stone with acidic cleaners, including (but not
limited to) vinegar or cleaners with “lemon” or “lime” on the label. These
products will abrade the polish from the stone. Sealers DO NOT protect
polished surfaces from these types of cleaners.
AVAILABLE
