Slate tiles are an impressive feature that will bring texture and character to a shower and bathroom. These tiles are relatively inexpensive in comparison to other natural stone finishes, such as Granite and Marble, and the range of color tones and styles that are available will accommodate any interior design scheme. These tiles can be found online, or by visiting tile showrooms, and building material centers.
Slate tiles are manufactured in various sizes, as well as numerous configurations. Square tiles are available in standard 12” x 12”, as well as custom sizes that can be cut to suit any layout pattern. Many shower designs will include a rectangular liner course at mid-wall, to offset the grout lines. In addition, some shower floors and liner courses will be installed on the diagonal, or in a complimentary color, to add further interest to the design.
There are numerous accent concepts that can be implemented when upgrading an existing slate shower, or as accent features in a new shower. Leaded glass panels will provide additional light in a smaller shower. A full, glass shower enclosure, installed on a slate shower base, will add dimension, as well as contrast in a master bedroom or a luxury suite.
Slate tiles are durable and will not chip, as some have suggested. In addition, these tiles are not subject to surface scratches, or breakage under any normal conditions. The finished tiles need only to be sealed, in order to protect the surface from water spots, and to allow easy cleaning of any deposits and soap residue.
Installing a slate tile shower requires expertise, as well as specific tools, and ample manpower to off-load and stock the materials at the job site. Installing slate, or any stone type tiles calls for a keen layout, in order to avoid consuming additional materials, or remaining with unusable pieces. The tools required to size, and fit slate tiles have additional, built-in durability, since the materials are not easy to penetrate. With regard to manpower, standard slate tiles are packaged in boxes of five pieces, which are known to weigh upward of 25 pounds per box.
In order to avoid undue expenditures, a homeowner or property owner should consult with a reliable tile, or masonry contractor, prior to purchasing or attempting any installation of slate tiles. In many instances, the material supplier, or architect, will recommend a preferred contractor that can coordinate the purchase and delivery of materials.
A slate shower is a centerpiece that will add style and value to an existing bathroom, and complete the most dynamic design scheme in a new home or condominium. The reliability of this material, along with the texture and finishes that are available, make a slate tile shower one of the most desirable installation options.