Slate Surfaces / Cladding, Flooring and Worktops
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Slate Properties and Applications
Slate is a fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock used for a range of natural stone surfaces. Its characteristic appearance and layered structure make it suitable for selected worktop, flooring and fireplace applications.
The performance of slate depends on the particular stone, its finish and the intended use. We can help you assess the available material and discuss its suitability for your project. Slate is also used for flooring and fireplace hearths. Explore our stone flooring and fireplace hearths and surrounds pages for more information about these applications.
- Natural stone with a fine-grained appearance.
- Characteristic layered structure, known as foliation.
- May scratch or chip, depending on the stone and finish.
- Some varieties can split along natural planes.
- Sealing requirements vary by material.
- Use chopping boards and trivets on worktops.
Slate Worktop Colours
Slate is available in a range of natural colours, including black, grey, green and brown. The examples below are indicative; availability, colour and surface character can vary between slabs and batches.
NOTE: 100% Natural Stone Slate - Images are Indicative and materials subject to availability. Colour and designs may differ by batch.
Slate Worktop Suitability and Care
Slate has a distinctive matt appearance, but it is generally softer and less scratch-resistant than many common worktop stones. Its suitability for everyday use depends on the particular material, finish and fabrication.
Caring for Slate Worktops
Use chopping boards when preparing food and trivets for hot cookware. Wipe up spills promptly and clean the surface with warm water and a suitable stone cleaner. Avoid abrasive products and unapproved treatments.
Sealing requirements and maintenance intervals depend on the particular slate and the product used to treat it. Follow the care instructions supplied for your worktop rather than applying a universal sealing schedule.
What Is Slate?
Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock usually formed when shale or mudstone undergoes low-grade metamorphism. Heat and pressure alter its original minerals and align fine mineral grains, creating the layered structure known as foliation.
This structure gives slate its characteristic tendency to split along relatively flat planes. The strength, finish and tendency to split can vary between types of slate, so the specific material needs to be assessed for its intended application.
Composition and Foliation
Foliation is also found in other metamorphic rocks, including quartzite. In slate, the alignment of fine mineral grains creates its characteristic layered structure and tendency to split along relatively flat planes. These properties vary between types of slate.