The stain and burn resistance, appearance, and usable life of the material are top among those qualities homeowners consider. Natural stone materials rank high in each of these categories, making them a top choice for those looking for the best the market has to offer.

When considering natural stone countertops, homeowners have options for finishes, thicknesses and textures, and appearances. One of the finest design benefits of utilizing natural stone for countertops is the creation of a truly unique kitchen for each and every home.  No two stones in nature are alike, and therefore no two stone countertops will be alike.

Various stone materials are available from which to choose, but the top choices are marble, limestone, granite, and slate. Of the varieties available, slate ranks highest in all of the categories previously mentioned as essentials in selecting the right countertops.  When selecting slate kitchen countertops, you’ll need to know a few things. Here are some of the slate countertops pros and cons.

Many varieties of slate do not require any sealing to prevent staining. High quality slate is nonporous and therefore stain resistant. Even those varieties which need to be sealed need not be resealed with the same frequency as other natural stone surfaces. In fact, once they are properly sealed, they don’t require any additional maintenance for the life of the countertop.

Slate countertops are scratch resistant. Slight scrapes and scratches can be removed with a damp cloth, while deeper scratches can be sanded away using steel wool. No damage is done to slate by the presence of acidic substances, another reason they are stain resistant.

Slate countertops are available in a variety of shades of green, gray, purple and black. These shades include unique variations, with each stone being a creation in and of itself, and no other kitchen countertop will ever look exactly like it.

An additional sealer or color enhancer can be used with slate to enhance or bring out deeper tones and shades within the color of the stone. These topcoat sealers come in low sheen, high glass, and matt finishes. Those homeowners who wish to maintain the most natural appearance possible of their natural slate countertop should employ the use of matt fishing for slate.

The cut of the stone and the rounding of the edges can add variety to the appearance of slate, creating a unique feel for each kitchen in which it is utilize. Slate stone is available in different types and shapes, with formats including standard square tiles, guillotine cut, random flagging, mosaic, and tumbled.

Slate tile countertops can range from tiny mosaics to two square foot tiles, leaving homeowners with numerous design options from which to choose. The introduction of slate tiles to a kitchen décor can add an elegant simplicity that does not detract from other design elements, and often compliments most design schemes quite well.

Slate countertops fall in the median range for natural stone countertop materials, making them an affordable option for most homeowners. That being said, one of the cons is that for some homeowners, getting a slate kitchen countertop can be expensive. However, the durability of slate far exceeds the initial cost, as the expense of the countertop can be a once in a lifetime venture. Slate countertops look wonderful in any home, and can offer homeowners the benefits of lifelong durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and affordable cost.

Slate countertops have many distinct advantages over other materials. First is its appearance. Slate itself is formed by natural, inconsistent processes; therefore, it varies in composition, texture, and color. Used in countertops, this variety becomes a benefit in finding and creating a balance with the overall house design. Colors associated with slate are red, purple, gray, black, and various shades of earthy colors.

Countertops made with this material can be polished with a color enhancer to produce a glossy, sleek look, or rendered with a soft, smooth finish that is not as shiny but more natural looking. Slate kitchen countertops present no difficulties in cleaning. Most of the time soap and water will be sufficient, although it is also recommended to use mineral oil to help maintain its characteristics. They are strong enough to withstand extreme heat and constant exposure to liquids. This quality makes them very practical in the kitchen for preparing and serving food.

There is a variation to all this, and that is to install slate tile kitchen countertops. Slate tiles can be obtained at lower costs, which is the big advantage. The same durability and beauty in the slate sheets or slabs will still be found in the tiles. However, some care should be devoted in selecting the right thickness, shape, and color among the numerous tiles needed for installation in the kitchen to ensure consistency in style and construction.

Slate may not usually be associated with countertops, but it possesses material properties such as low liquid absorption rate, attractive colors, durability, and strength. These qualities are excellent for constructing countertops. As a result, slate kitchen countertops are now quickly gaining acceptance and prominence as building materials, alongside more conventional materials such as granite or marble. Slate countertops can be a great addition to your kitchen. Although you can find and buy these online, if this is your first time, you might want to take a trip down to your local hardware store to check these out in person just to get a real idea of how these will look and feel.