Slate kitchen worktops are one of the finest traditional natural stone countertops that have been used in kitchens for hundreds of years. It is very attractive, has a surprisingly modern look, is very durable and non-porous, and is now highly desired as kitchen worktops and bathroom counter surfaces.
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| The handsome and elegant look of natural stone makes this slate kitchen worktop look stunning - A modern look using a classic material. |
Reasons Why Slate Kitchen Countertops Are Popular
- Slate worktops have a distinctly handsome appearance with its elegant and classic look.
- The natural stone which comes in hues of blue-black, grey, and muted black blends beautifully with any style of decor - traditional, contemporary, or ultra-modern. Slate also comes in a variety of shades of red, brown, deep purple, blue, and dark green.
- Slate is known to be non-porous, which makes it resistant to oils, food stains, and juices. Its surface is impermeable.
- It is estimated to have a life-span of close to a century.
- This material does not encourage the growth of bacteria. This quality makes it an excellent anti-bacterial kitchen worktop material.
- It is a much better alternative to marble kitchen counters because it does not absorb stains and does not dull with age.
- Slate can’t be shined or polished to a glazed finish like marble or granite. Rather, its beauty really lies in its unique natural rustic look.
- Slate is a hardy material and will not easily chip or get scratches.
- If you use soft-slate as opposed to the hard-slate, scratches may occur but if or when they do, it can be rubbed out easily with a smooth hard-surfaced implement.
- It a dream choice of architects, interior designers and many homeowners for high-end kitchen designs.
- It is very easy to maintain and only requires cleaning like you will for other natural stone worktops. There isn't any need to use special cleaners (mild soap and a damp cloth are best used).
- It stands up very well to heat, so you can place your hot pans on its surface without worrying about marring your countertop.
- Compared to granite and marble kitchen worktops, slate countertops are much less expensive.
- If you don't particularly care for granite or marble worktops because of their bold (sometimes subtle) streaky patterns which can be overtly busy-looking, the slate stone with its stellar looks is a great alternative.
- It has a more uniform appearance than its close relatives - granite, marble, and quartz.
- It is now an on-trend kitchen material with its rising popularity. With slate installed as your kitchen countertop, you will find it becomes a conversational point when people walk into your kitchen.
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Blue-black shades of slate will transform any kitchen into a sophisticated food preparation cum family hub zone. |
Tips:
- There are numerous cheap slate materials on the market that not only stain fairly easily, they also tend to fade and de-laminate, especially if they are at cut-throat prices, so it is good to beware of the cheaper versions.
- To get the best quality slate kitchen worktop that will stand the test of time, it is best to buy natural slate that’s been smoothed with diamond-edged machines (using fine diamonds to abrade). These types come out in a beautiful matte finish.
- If you want to create that wet-glazy look that's typical of granite (slate has a soft matte sheen), you can rub the surface with lemon or coconut oil.
- Slate worktops can have slightly brittle and sharp edges so it is recommended that you have them rounded-off to avoid household hazards or injuries.
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