Slate Counters Make Beautiful Kitchen Worktops   by Russell Strider

in Home / Home Accessories    (submitted 2012-01-05)

Many people are finding that the look and feel of slate counters is exactly what they're seeking with regards to enhancing their kitchen or bathroom decorating projects. These worktops not only look good in almost any area of the house, but they also offer a solid surface that's antibacterial and stain resistant at the same time. It is certainly no surprise that slate is now such a well liked material for modern countertops as well as other home applications.

High quality slate counters will not delaminate, lose color or stain. This will make them the perfect option for use in bathrooms and kitchens. Moreover, slate provides a really resilient surface that will withstand the extremes of heat as well as the constant use and tough conditions typical in most kitchen and bathroom environments.

Many people are aware of the beauty stone counters can bring to a room, but distinct from some of the much more commonly known natural stone materials, such as granite or marble, slate gives its own unique advantages. For one, slate is a non-porous material which is really hard and compact; it does not have the same porous nature present in marble and granite. That means that it does not need sealing on a regular basis. In actual fact, all natural slate won't ever need a sealant, leaving it entirely natural and free of chemicals.

Although the porous nature of marble and granite make them much easier to stain and absorb moisture, food particles and chemicals, this is in no way a problem with slate counters which keeps them naturally anti-bacterial and also mold and mildew free. In addition, some natural stones are a lot more susceptible to harm from chipping or scratching, particularly when used in the kitchen; however, the nature of slate makes it easy to simply rub away any kind of marks that may arise.

Slate is a naturally occurring stone and as a result of that, it does have its own special and distinct qualities. No two pieces will be identical; however, it in addition has a much more random or subtle differentiation than other kinds of stone utilized for countertops. For example, cutting into a slab of granite or marble will expose really pronounced and unique striations or markings. Although these veins of color can certainly be interesting, it can sometimes be difficult to match them with other pieces or the decor of your room.

Slate, on the other hand, features a much more even appearance. Its subtle variations from piece to piece are a lot less of a hindrance when matching pieces or decorating. Actually, it is the natural and very subtle qualities of this material that make it incredibly appealing for usage in residential applications.

About the Author

Are you looking for worktops to remodel your kitchen? Be sure the visit The Worktop Factory for Granite Worktops North East or Granite Worktops North West.