A Guide to Buying Slate Tiles

What Is a Slate Tile?

Slate tiles are crafted from metamorphic rock that has naturally formed into sheets of sediment, clay and, volcanic materials. The sheets are cleaved into slabs of rock, which form stunning, durable, and long-lasting tiles. Slate comes in a huge variety of colors, styles, and finishes. It is a naturally porous stone and will need occasional resealing to protect it against moisture and staining.

What Are Slate Tiles Best Used For?

Slate tiles lend an earthy and organic look to your interior decor. Choose a rich black slate with a natural cleft finish to give your kitchen floor a timeless and traditional feel, or a classic cleft face multi-color slate for a stylish and durable backsplash. 

Which Finishes Are Available for Slate Tiles?

Stone & Tile Shoppe stocks slate tiles in a variety of different finishes to suit your design aesthetic, including:

  • Honed: A silky smooth honed finish is created by grinding down the stone to remove its top layer, revealing a satin, matte finish. Honed tiles are slip resistant and durable enough for kitchen and bathroom flooring
  • Natural cleft face: A natural cleft face occurs when the stone is split into shape, creating a rough and uneven finish with unique pits, bumps, and grooves. This finish is ideal for driveways and backyards due to its texture and slip resistance
  • Split Face: Strips of sandstone are cut to different heights, widths, and depths, and arranged to create a staggered and multi-leveled face
  • Brushed: A matte, naturally worn-down effect is created by sweeping the stone with a wire brush. This provides you with a low-maintenance tile that is easy to clean and fairly slip resistant, making it ideal for use in kitchens or hallways.

How Do I Choose the Right Slate Tile for My Project?

Available in a huge variety of colors, textures, and finishes; slate tiles are a versatile and durable choice that blends beautifully with many home design applications. If you aren’t sure which tile is right for your project, give our experts a call and we’ll be happy to help. Call us on 877-426-1500 or email sales@stoneandtileshoppe.com.

1 We place your order directly with the manufacturer using our wholesale account so you get fantastic pricing!
2 We put your name as the pickup person and email you as soon as your order is ready to be picked up.
3 Upon arrival at the store, give your order number and pick up your order hassle free - everything will already be paid for!

What if the warehouse closest to you doesn’t have the item you have selected in stock?

They can usually bring it in within a few days. If the manufacturer is willing to do this as a courtesy we will pass on that courtesy to you.  If there are any fees for this we will let you know so you can decide.  We always find out the exact timeline and email you to confirm if that is okay. If that doesn’t work for you then you will get a 100% refund. If it does, we proceed and email you when it is ready for pickup.



Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any pickup questions toll free at
1-877-426-1500 or email us at sales@stoneandtileshoppe.com