How to Choose a Slate Tile

Installing tile in your home gives you durable surfaces for floors, walls and counters. Slate tile is often more durable than other types, such as porcelain or ceramic. When choosing tile for your home, you have to consider size, shape, texture and color. Because slate tile is more natural than other tile types, the colors may vary more and be more difficult to match in a standard pattern. Visit local flooring stores to determine what types of slate tile your area has.

Instructions

- 1
  Pick a slate tile size appropriate for the room where you plan to install it. For example, larger tiles --- such as 12-by-12-inch --- will make a small room look larger. Small tile sizes --- 4-by-4-inch or 8-by-8-inch --- work best for walls, counters, bathtubs and showers.
- 2
  Select an appropriate shape for the tile. Slate tile often comes in squares or rectangles. Avoid mixing the shapes unless you are creating a specific design in your space.
- 3
  Test the texture of each slate tile you review. Run your hand over it to determine how smooth it feels. Rougher tiles are necessary for wet surfaces, such as showers and bathroom floors.
- 4
  Match slate color tiles to those already in the area where you will install the tile. Slate tile colors are typically red, green, gray, purple or black, with some variations. Take a small color swatch to compare with the different tiles to determine the look you desire.

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