Using Slate Tile in Your Bathroom
Although slate tile has been used in homes for centuries, most people associate it with outdoor projects like patios and roofing. While it is certainly true that slate can be used outdoors in home building and renovation projects, it can also be incorporated into bathrooms for an unusual and elegant look.
Since it exudes the natural beauty of stone but costs far less than granite or marble, slate is a great choice for bathroom remodeling projects. If you are planning to tile parts of your bathroom but aren’t sure how to best incorporate slate, use this guide to learn more about the material and how to use it in the home.
The Many Advantages of Slate in Bathrooms
Even though slate may not be a typical bathroom material, it is still a wonderful choice for the space. It resists fading well and won’t be affected by direct sunlight if you have an open bathroom with several windows. It is also a very strong and durable material. Unlike more fragile tiles that will need to be fixed and replaced often, slate can last for decades without breaking or denting.
Even though bathrooms are often the site of stains, spills and heavy duty cleaning products, slate resists these substances and won’t decay or lose its color. Although it is a beautiful natural stone much like marble, granite or travertine, slate is surprisingly affordable and starts at just two dollars per square foot.
How to Incorporate Slate into Your Bathroom
It is possible to use slate in several different ways throughout the bathroom. If you want to incorporate it in a small area for added interest, consider tiling your bathroom backsplash with textured slate. This will draw the eye in and create a real focal point in the space. Slate is incredible versatile as a building material and can be used on bathroom floors, in showers and even on the walls. Wherever you want to use tile, slate will work beautifully.
Installing Slate in the Home
If you have already installed tiles in the home, you will have no trouble working with slate. It is installed just like any other tile and involves grout, mortar and a trowel. The only difference between working with slate and working with any other tile materials is that slate is not always uniform in thickness. Along the floor, this can be a hazard for people who are walking. Simply pay attention to the thicknesses and level the floor or use tile adhesives to thicken the thinner tiles if necessary.
Care and Maintenance
Slate in its natural state cannot be used in a room where there is lots of water and humidity. It is a naturally porous material that will absorb water and can decay unless it is sealed properly. However, it is still possible to use slate in the bathroom. You simply need to seal the tiles before they are installed. Try to seal the tiles once a year if possible. Cleaning slate is simple and requires frequent vacuuming and occasional mopping.
The Drawbacks of Slate
Although it is clear to see the many wonderful benefits of using slate in the bathroom, it is important to be aware of the drawbacks as well. Custom ordering slate can be expensive, and the varied look of each piece may not provide you with the cohesive look you desire. It also requires more maintenance that comparably priced ceramic or porcelain tiles.
If you want to create an elegant and classic look in your bathroom, consider using tiles made of slate. Their attractive appearance is affordable and easy to install, but it creates an environment that is anything but ordinary.
DirectBuy has a wide selection of tile, including slate. Go to www.directhomediscount.com for more info. You will discover what you need to know in order to get home products without ever paying retail markup.