slate: stone tile fired in the earth’s kiln
by clé tile | published: Feb 26, 2019
elemental, tactile and endlessly variable, slate is the product of the geologic forces that build mountains. as the tectonic plates buckle and fold, heat and pressure beneath the earth’s crust turn mineral clay and volcanic dust into solid stone. it forms in broad, strong, layered sheets that allow it to be cut in a range of shapes and thicknesses. because it’s not very porous, it sheds water and resists damage from freezing, and in its unpolished state, it has a naturally slip-resistant texture.
all of these advantages have made slate a traditional material for roofing tile, sidewalk pavers and other outdoor applications throughout history. and of course, we love it for terraces and garden paths, where its soft blue-gray shades are a welcoming balance to forest greens, fall foliage and the browns of bark and earth. but those same qualities make slate tile a fantastic choice indoors, as well, in bathrooms, kitchens, entryways and mudrooms, on walls and floors, counters and hearths.
split along the natural grain to yield a cleft texture, our slate tile will age in place beautifully. initially, bits of loose shale will wear away, leaving a durable surface that catches light differently from tile to tile. not only is this to be expected, it’s considered part of the beauty of this layered stone. organic yet geometric, our planks parlay beautifully into patterns of herringbone, chevron and long, staggered runs. the larger formatted squares and rectangles bring quiet drama to small and large spaces, on their own or combined into elegant ashlar patterns. and slate’s natural variations of shade and texture turn even standard subway tiles into something uniquely, timelessly beautiful.
shop slate by size. choose from 3″x6″, 4″x12″, 6″x24″, 12″x24″, 12″x12″ and 16″x16″.
