WELSH SLATE
Welsh slate is quarried exclusively in the principality of Wales. It has been quarried here for hundreds, maybe thousands of years. Widely used as both a stuctural stone and for decorative purposes, welsh slate is hard, durable and versatile.
HONED OR RIVEN FINISH: Welsh slate is available as both honed and riven, each finish has its charm and uses.
RIVEN OR NATURAL FACED WELSH SLATE: As described in previous articles slate is a layered or bedded stone. Riven welsh slate has been split along its natural bed. The resultant finish is rough enough to give a slip resistant surface but still smooth enough to walk upon in comfort and safety.
HONED OR POLISHED WELSH SLATE: Has been sawn into slabs and then machine honed to a flat even finish. This surface will show off the subtle variations in the stone. Can be sealed or oiled to preserve or restore the finish.
WELSH SLATE OUTSIDE: Welsh slate is probably the best slate to use for applications exposed to the weather, it is a hard and durable material, and unlike some other slates is not prone to colour fade in sunlight.
WELSH SLATE FOR INTERIOR USE: Welsh slate is widely used on fireplace flooring and kitchen worktops. Though this is a hard slate, it will scratch and scuff under hard use, but the finish can be mostly restored by sealing with slate oil. If you want a natural and rustic feel in your home welsh slate may be the ideal answer.
COLOURS OF WELSH SLATE: Most widely available colours are light to dark grey, but a really lovely purple slate is also available.