The beauty of natural materials – slate countertops for your kitchen

There is no more talented designer than Mother Nature and interior designers and architects know that. Natural materials are gradually becoming more and more popular. We shall make a quick review on one of the most popular of them – slate countertops. Whether you are planning a kitchen renovation or designing a completely new contemporary kitchen, look at the images and be inspired to invite Nature to your home.

Slate countertops have a lot of qualities including beauty, great durability and a non-porous surface that makes them easy to clean and requires less maintenance than granite, marble or concrete. This is a versatile countertop material and works perfectly in a variety of applications such as kitchens, bathrooms, wet bars and can also be used for backsplashes and sinks. Natural slate can be found in shades of red, purple, turquoise, gray or black. One of the most popular types are Brazilian slates. They are quite well known for their superior quality and are used throughout the world for this reason. It is an excellent choice for kitchen and vanity tops.

Slate countertop designs are maintained just like any other natural stone, for example – marble or granite. You need to seal it twice or three times per year, and cleaning can be done with the common household cleaners that you use. If you ask yourself how to remove scratches from slate countertops – well, it is very easy. A light sanding will do the trick. Note that some darker shades of slate slabs are treated with mineral oil. If you noticed scratches on a surface which is treated with mineral oil – you do not need to panic, as they are easily covered with a dab of mineral oil.

• Slate is more affordable than other natural stones.
• the slabs are more monochromatic, which many people find appealing and designers use that quality to underline the simplicity of the interior.
• the material have extremely low water absorption which means they are resistant to water damage and stains
• it is fireproof and chemically inert.