Slate stone: properties and sphere of application

Among the huge number of newfangled finishing materials, the leading position in popularity has always been occupied by natural stone. It is appreciated for its reliability, durability, presentable and ability to emphasize the prosperity and exquisite taste of the owner. Natural materials have many varieties, but the most popular is the stone slate. In this article we will consider what kind of species it is, what are its advantages and features, and what properties it has.

What is shale

Slate stone (in other words, flagstone) is a sedimentary rock of volcanic origin, consisting of clay minerals, which is characterized by a wide variety of colors and reliefs. It is formed during the compaction and crystallization of clays at great depths.

The color of the stone depends on the presence in it of minerals and impurities of various chemicals. Most often in nature there is a flagstone of golden, yellow, brown, purple, gray, green and black.

Slate differs from other stones in a layered structure that allows it to be easily broken down into thin layers and plates. Often large blocks and slabs are used in a natural way.

Kinds

This material has several varieties, which differ in composition and origin, but are called a common name - shale. Stone, whose photo allows you to admire its beauty, is divided into the following groups:

• Clay materials. They include hard rocks from dark gray to black. Occasionally you can find copies of red and green tones. The blocks very easily split into the finest particles, which is why they are actively used in the manufacture of finishing materials.

• Siliceous flagstone. This granular rock is formed in the form of thin plates or sheets of crystalline quartz formations. Minerals, depending on the environment of origin and the amount of foreign impurities, can be gray, green, red, purple and black. Sometimes a stone slate of this kind is used instead of flint.

• Mica plate. It consists of quartz mica and is found in white, brown and black colors.

• Oil shale. This group includes stones, which in appearance are very similar to the fossilized clay. A feature of this type is the rapid inflammability. It occurs in gray and yellow tones.

• Chlorite materials. This includes a shale of green color, which is characterized by transfusion and bright shine. Its basis is chlorite.

Properties of slate

If you are looking for a spectacular, durable, practical and safe material for finishing, choose the slate. Stone, whose properties allow it to be used in absolutely all areas of construction, is endowed with the following qualities:

• ecological compatibility;

• high strength;

• low degree of water absorption;

• resistance to temperature fluctuations;

• excellent sound and heat insulation capabilities;

• absence of deformation and loss of color under the influence of external factors;

• frost resistance;

• hardness;

• Hygiene;

• Simplicity of processing and installation;

• durability.

Sphere of application of the limestone

Slate stone has excellent physical and aesthetic characteristics, therefore it is actively used for both external and internal repair work. Due to its flexibility and flexibility, the material is actively used in landscape design.

Tiles made of slate, suitable for facing facades, arbors, flower beds, stairs and other external surfaces. Thicker products are used for paving garden paths and as a pavement lining.

It should also be mentioned that the ideal stone slate for interior decoration of premises. From its slabs a luxurious floor covering is laid, decoration of doorways, arches, walls, bar counters and other surfaces is performed. Also produced countertops, window sills, plumbing and a lot of other interior items.

Mineral crystal type is characterized by high strength and does not absorb moisture, so it has found wide application as a roof. This coating of roofs for a long time does not lose its original appearance, since its special structure contributes to the self-cleaning of the surface.

Refractory options are used for making stoves and fireplaces. Combustible grades are an excellent fuel for heating the housing.

Especially popular is the dish made of slate. It has a spectacular appearance, resistance to damage and hygiene.

In crushed form, stone particles are used to fill concrete, to produce wall blocks and to apply a reinforcing layer to the surface of the roofing material.

Cost

Despite the abundance of positive qualities, not every real estate owner decides to use slate as a finishing. The stone, the photo of which you saw in this article, is considered an elite material, so it has a fairly high price.

The cost of the simplest facing slab starts from 600 rubles per 1 m ² . Rare varieties will cost several times more.

The minimum cost of roofing tiles, measuring 40 x 40 cm, is 200 rubles per 1 piece. Although if you consider that such a coating can last more than 200 years, we can conclude that this investment will be justified.

In conclusion, I want to note that, in addition to all the above advantages, slate has a curative effect on a person. It helps to relieve stress, promotes relaxation and normalizes sleep. Therefore, by purchasing this material, you can not only decorate your interior, but also take care of the health of the whole family.