what is slate used for

1 year ago 47
Nature

Slate is a natural stone that has been used for various purposes throughout history. Its color depends on the mineral structure and size of the mineral grains that define its composition. Slate is mainly used for:

  • Roofing: Most of the extracted slate is transformed for use as roofing material. The low rate of water absorption (less than 0.4%) as well as its great durability make this rock one of the most valued products for covering roofs.

  • Facade cladding: Slate tiles are often used for interior and exterior wall cladding.

  • Flooring: Slate is used for both indoor and outdoor flooring.

  • Decorative aggregate: Slate is used for garden decoration and wall cladding.

  • Other uses: Slate has been used for laboratory bench tops, billiard table tops, and as table coasters. It is also used for tombstones and commemorative tablets. In some cases, slate was used by the ancient Maya civilization to fashion stelae. Crushed slate is used on composition roofing, in aggregates, and as a filler.

Slate is a versatile material that offers a long-lasting, pollutant-resistant, fireproof, and waterproof option for various applications.