Slate Worktops

Slate worktops are made from volcanic ash and sedimentary clay that undergo metamorphosis in the earth’s layers and further convert into slate. The layers on the surface are visible whenever you turn this stone into slabs. It gives unique characteristics and cleft texture to the worktop.

The smooth surface of this fine-grained metamorphic stone is used in kitchen worktops, roofing and flooring. Since designing a home or office is a long-term investment, many designers and homeowners prefer slate surfaces for their mechanical strength and cost-effectiveness. Although they are formed naturally, the worktop material is non-porous and maintenance-free and hence, suitable for even the busiest areas of any given space.

Colours of Slate

Many people have a misconception that slate kitchen worktops are just grey or black. But the fact is that slate also comes in a variety of other colours – from green to burgundy. The dark coloured slate surfaces are usually sourced from Spain, Italy or Brazil. However, the bright coloured varieties are sourced from other countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, China and Africa. Instead, Africa is homeland to some of the bright coloured types of slate.

Finishes of Slate Worktops

Unlike different natural stone worktops, slate worktops in London are available in different finishes. Granite or marble worktops are always polished and must be kept in a unique way to keep their surfaces non-absorbent. But slate is non-porous because they can be left unpolished. Here are the three popular slate worktop finishes:

Honed: This finish is subtle and finished. Its surface is flat with a soft lustre. Since this material does not have a lot of texture in itself, one can add any desired texture to it without even making its surface appear too busy.

Cascade: This surface boasts slight ripples. It is not as flat as the honed finish but not very busy too.

Cleft: It is one of the most naturally formed textures on the slate’s surface. That helps the surface of the slate to display all its layers in full glory. Furthermore, the rough texture of this finish is ideal for creating a rustic kitchen theme. It also adds a unique character to the given space. However, it’s quite challenging to maintain. So, it needs constant cleaning, as grime and dust may settle in its edges.

Applications of Slate worktops

Slate worktops in the UK give endless application options to homeowners – from ceiling to flooring – for an elegant balcony, patio or terrace. They even complement a washbasin of a shower room or can be used in sauna or wall cladding.

Some other ideas for this application include kitchen worktops, fireplace surrounds, swimming pool coping and staircases. With slate surfaces, one can even create an outstanding statement in any home or office, including bar, facade, bar, hallways, reception desk and utility rooms.

Revamp Kitchen Interior with Slate Worktops

Slate worktops are unique and can add exquisite character and depth to any kitchen space. The subtle striations on slate worktops are not as distracting as the veining pattern on granite and marble. So, they will not overpower any element in a kitchen interior. If there are wooden cabinets, flooring or textured cabinets that need to be the focal point of a kitchen, the subtle slate kitchen worktops are the best option.

MKW Surfaces offers slate worktops in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses in green, black, dark grey and other classic colours. All luxurious colours available in slate worktops are great for creating a modern visual impact while matching the decor with any desired interior theme – be it minimalist, vibrant, industrial or dramatic.

Slate Maintenance

Slate worktops are non-porous and hygienic. This hard surface can resist heat, impact and scratches. Therefore, this worktop material is ideal for vulnerable areas like bathroom and kitchen spaces where bacterial proliferation often takes place.

But if everything is kept intact and maintained adequately, the slate worktops can easily last for several years. For protecting the worktop surface, you may easily keep everything clean using pH neutral cleaner, especially on wet areas or surfaces exposed to the weather. However, the weather changes don’t impact the surface of the slate. So, even if you live in humid or cold regions, slate is perfectly designed for you. The high-quality worktop surfaces can last for a lifetime.

Conclusion

All the advantages of slate worktops hold if homeowners invest in high-quality material. It can be ensured if the worktop is purchased from the trustworthy worktop surfaces. With decades of experience, MKW Surfaces supplies the premium quality slate countertops in various designs and colours to match any interior design.