Slate Counters: An Easy-Going Granite

Whenever people mention the words natural stone surfaces, many people immediately conjure up images of granite or marble. These materials are certainly great when it comes to kitchen installations since they're beautiful, tough, and unique, but to save a bit of money and to make your space even more distinctive, you may want to think about slate countertops. This metamorphic rock is naturally constructed from clay and silt sediment compacted over millions of years. The heat and compression of their creation actually forms new minerals, such as mica and quartz. And, due to this intense formation, slate has become a very tough material that can be used in several areas around the house.

The Right Resistance
Slate countertops are like granite's obscure cousin. They're both constructed in nature, are shaped from giant stone slabs, and are elegant additions to any home. Plus, they're both hard and heat-resistant, which makes them great in kitchens since they can take some abuse, won't dent, and can hold hot pans without sustaining damage. However, granite is fairly porous and will therefore absorb stains, water, chemicals, and food substances into its surface unless annually sealed. Slate counters, on the other hand, are naturally stain-resistant. Also, they're completely non-porous, which makes them exceptionally anti-bacterial. They can't absorb acidic liquids, food, fats, or chemicals, and therefore they are also mold and mildew resistant without any maintenance.

Uniquely Uniform
Since it's created by Mother Nature, natural stone is unpredictable. Marble and granite both come with strong striations and veining, which makes them irreplaceable and extremely unique. However, when you cut into the slab you never know what you're going to get and sometimes it won't match your kitchen décor. Slate counters on the other hand, have a more uniform look. Though they're still naturally one-of-a-kind and come in all sorts of designs, their patterns are more subtle and restrained, making them distinct yet subdued. In fact, many synthetic products (Formica, engineered stone, Silestone) attempt to imitate the look of slate surfaces because of their delicate boldness. It's this uniformity that makes it so popular: it can fit any style (modern or traditional) and it can be used in any part of a room (flooring, backsplash, bar tops). In fact, since it's non-porous, it's a great material for wall paneling (especially in bathrooms and shower stalls) or even sinks (farmhouse sinks have become a very trendy slate installation).

Discount Chic
Granite makes a bold statement, but it also has a bold price tag, often ranging from $70-150 a square foot. Slate counters aren't cheap by any means, but often they're priced around $50 a square foot depending upon the selection (black and red are a bit more expensive). However, one of the benefits of this metamorphic rock is that it isn't overwhelming. Unlike granite, most slate countertops come in a simple, black matte, giving it a more laid-black look. However, when people picture it they only see in shades of black and grey, but it can actually come in all kinds of colors and finishes. It can range from green, brown, blue, red, and even yellow or purple; plus, it can be honed with a satin sheen or polished to a bright shine depending upon your own sense of style. As you shop around, it may be a good idea to bring a design sample from your kitchen to the contractor so they can help you select a model that'll work best for you.

Slate Counter Maintenance
It's strong and durable, but like all natural stone products, it needs help from time to time. Though you don't need to seal it every year, if you want the surface to shine you'll need to polish it occasionally with mineral oil. Plus, since it's not invulnerable to chips or cracks, you may want to think about a rounded edge to reduce the chances of fracture. It may scratch over time, especially if you're doing some hardcore vegetable chopping with sharp knives. Luckily, most scratches can be removed with a damp cloth, but deep scrapes may need to be buffed with steel wool. Since it is an investment and needs proper care, if any major repairs or restorations are needed, it's always a good idea to consult the professionals who installed the product before doing it yourself.