Slate

Slate is a homogeneous, metamorphic rock formed by low pressure and temperature compared to some other metamorphic rocks, originally formed from a shale type sedimentary rock composed of volcanic ash or clay. Common uses for slate tiles are for both interior and exterior and are most commonly used in roofing applications although just as commonly now, for wall cladding, flooring and fire surrounds, sealants can be used after application to increase stain resistance, durability and to reduce effloresce. Tiles can be split very consistently to give a uniform thickness but this tends to be more expensive. Slate, like marble, is a metamorphic rock quarried in mountain regions all over the world. It comes in a range of beautifully dramatic colours, dark green, blue, blue-grey, red, purple and black, and tends to have a slick, wet look due to the high proportion of mica crystals layered through the stone.