The Basics of Slate Tile

• Attractive and increasingly popular, slate tile covers bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor spaces providing a unique solution to flooring. Slate tile is a natural stone. It is porous, and requires periodic conditioning and sealing. Slate is extremely strong, however it is still prone to damage if abused. One defining characteristic of slate tile is the uneven appearance it gives. These tiles are cut with the specific intention that they do not form a flat even surface, but rather they provide a more organic and rustic ambiance. Finding a suitable replacement tile should an existing tile become damaged, is a simple process. Slate floors are not meant to appear similar from tile to tile. Instead, these floors celebrate the differences in color and texture. Simply choose another tile to replace the old one, in the same basic color family. No need to worry about matching a specific type or color of tile. Natural stone like slate is more difficult to install. Wet saws are necessary to cut natural stone, as the mineral deposits can cause cracking and breaking if a scoring tool is used.
  
  

The Basics of Ceramic Tile

• Ceramic tile is a cost effective alternative to natural stone tile. This type of tile is man made, and each tile in a batch is very similar to the color and texture of the next tile. Ceramic creates a very smooth, even floor, and is simple to install. Man made tile like ceramic tile is subject to breakage more easily than natural stone, and replacing damaged tiles could be difficult if the type of tile you need has been discontinued. As ceramic is man made, this type of tile can be cut with a simple scoring tool rather than an expensive wet saw, which is necessary for natural stone.
  
  

Slate versus Ceramic

• On the whole, slate is a more pricey albeit more high end finish in flooring. It is more difficult to install, but is also more durable. Slate creates an intentionally uneven flooring surface, and makes a great choice for outdoors, and damaged tiles are easily replaced. Ceramic tile is the more economical tile, and is simpler to install. Ceramic creates a smooth surface that may be more conducive to indoor living areas, however replacing damaged tiles could be problematic. One other factor to take note of is your location. If you are choosing tile for your home, whether indoors or outdoors, be careful not to over improve. You may not see a return on the expense of slate tile in some areas.