Slate Countertops Pros And Cons

Since many years, slate has been used for the purpose of flooring and roofing. In olden days, stone was the material used for the countertops instead of slate. If at all it was used, it was used as kitchen countertops. But, these days it is also used in countertops in all the rooms of the home. Quarts cultured stone was used and is still used for the countertops. Slate is designed especially for kitchen use, thus making your kitchen cabinet look classy. It comes in variety of colors. Along with these properties, it is resistant to stains. Since slate is inexpensive, thick sheets of slate can be used in the outdoors like benches or tables in a garden or the one around fireplace mantels and hearths. Lets take a look at the pros and cons of slate countertops in brief.

Brief-Up on Slate Countertops Pros and Cons

Slate Countertops Pros
It gives a classy look to the place thus bringing in beauty. Since it is inexpensive, the slate countertops are available at a reasonable price as compared to that of granite countertops. Slate is available in different colors like brown, red, dark matte black, green, blue, somber gray, plum, etc. These slates are highly resistant to chemicals like vinegar because of its chemical composition. If there are any kind of scratches present on the slate surface, then they can be patched up easily with matching tone polymer. After sealing the countertop, you can use it without any hassle. The slate material is extremely strong and dense, hence after sealing the material, acidic substances cannot cause a harm and the slate will remain maintenance free. It is resistant to heat and etching. Read more on comparison of kitchen countertops.

Slate Countertops Cons
Compared to the slate countertop pros, its cons are less. Lets take a look at a few slate coutertop cons. Slate does not give a glossy finish to the countertops. In order to make the coutertops glossy, you will have to use an additional material. For bringing out deeper tones of the stone, you will have to use a color enhancer. Traditional natural clefts gives rise to uneven surface. Squared corners of the slate can chip easily hence, this point should be considered while designing the kitchen and hence, rounded corners should be opted. Since slate countertops are soft, rounded edge is the best option. This material being brittle, cracks easily. Read more on best method to paint laminate countertops.

Cleaning of Slate Countertops
It does not require much cleaning. You can clean it once in a week with a damp cloth and pH neutral stone cleaner. Abrasive cleaners can cause a damage to this material and hence, they should be avoided. Even though the material is resistant to acid and stains, it is recommended to seal the countertops. If you splash some water on the surface of the countertop and it does not form beads, then it indicates that the countertop has to be resealed. This was in brief about slate countertop care and slate countertop maintenance. Read more on kitchen countertop ideas.

The price varies according to the quality and color. Black being most expensive followed by the red slate. This was some information about slate countertops pros and cons. You can definitely opt for these inexpensive slate countertops and give an elegant look to your house.