STONE TYPES
Slate – Natural, full of character and versatile
Slate is a natural stone known for its warm appearance, layered structure and excellent durability. Thanks to its many colours and textures, slate is suitable for both modern and classic interiors and outdoor spaces.
Origin
Slate is formed by compressing clay and sediment layers under high pressure and temperature. It is found worldwide, with popular varieties from Norway, India, China and South America.
Popular types of slate
- Norwegian slate – Dark grey to nearly black, very strong and frost-resistant, often used for patios and façades.
- Desert Black – Dark, uniform slate with a calm texture, ideal for modern floors and walls.
- Mustang – Popular for its deep anthracite colour and even surface, often used in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Jaddish – Slate with lively colour nuances, ranging from brown to rust tones.
- Indian slate – Colourful and full of character, available in grey, green and more earthy tones.
Applications of slate
Slate is widely applicable, both indoors and outdoors:
- Indoors – Floors, wall cladding, bathrooms, fireplaces.
- Outdoors – Terraces, garden paths, façade cladding and roof slates.
- Decorative – Tables, skirting boards and other custom-made projects.
Properties of slate
- Hardness - Moderately hard, stronger than limestone but softer than granite.
- Scratch resistance - Reasonably resistant, but may show scratches with intensive use.
- Porosity - Moderately porous; sealing is recommended in damp areas.
- Structure - Layered composition, creating a natural and lively appearance.
- Frost-resistant - Very suitable for outdoor use (depending on the type).
Pros and cons of slate
Pros
- Warm, natural look.
- Lots of variation in colour and texture.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Frost-resistant and durable.
Cons
- Can be sensitive to scratches and stains.
- Requires regular maintenance (impregnation, cleaning).
- Not as hard as granite or quartzite.
Treatment & maintenance tips for slate
- Impregnation – Recommended to prevent stains and moisture penetration.
- Cleaning – Use a neutral cleaning agent; avoid aggressive or acidic products.
- Periodic maintenance – Clean regularly and re-impregnate periodically.
- Outdoor - Keep in mind natural weathering, which actually creates a characterful patina.
Do you want to discover the unique look of slate?
Feel free to contact us and get inspired by Norwegian Slate, Mustang, Desert Black, Jaddish and Indian slate.