What is Slate? Slate is a grayish, green, blue Metamorphic rock that can be cut into very flat pieces. In the past it was common for Slate to be used in schools as a writing tablet. Slate is also used on roofs as well as floors. These days it's common for people to use Slate as their home's bathroom flooring, walls and in some cases the ceiling. This is commonly found in Asian inspired decor, where there's no separation between the bathtub/shower and the rest of the bathroom. Slate is especially good for bathrooms because it's moisture, bacteria and stain resistant.

Slate flooring can be added to every room of the home. It is very classy and adds a certain level of sophistication to any environment. The advantages of using Slate Flooring in your home definitely out weigh the disadvantages. Slate Floors can easily last the life of a home if they are cared for properly. Once a Slate Floor is installed you won't have to worry about much more than keeping it clean. If you desire to change the look of a Slate Floor, or want to be sure your protecting it from the elements, than all you have to do it seal it. (This can be done before or after installation. The ladder is recommended) I would suggest doing this with a penetrating water-based slate tile sealer. This may change the look a bit by bringing out different textures and colors, but it shouldn't be a huge difference.

Some of the disadvantages of having a Slate Floor installed is the cost. It is much more expensive than some of the other popular flooring materials, such as vinyl, laminate, ceramic and porcelain. You could save on labor costs if you installed it yourself. Slate is fairly easy to work with in comparison to other high end flooring such as marble and granite. But if you are a novice then I would suggest paying for the installation. Another disadvantage of having a Slate Floor has to be their feel. Slate is cold and hard to the touch. It can also fade and chip if not taken care of. It can easily be scratched, so adding the proper padding to any furniture resting on your Slate Floors would be recommended.