A patio is your private haven where you can relax and read your favorite book or spend time with your loved ones to have get-togethers and barbecues over the weekend. So, it is an integral outdoor space, and you should not ignore the flooring as it is what makes a patio a patio!
Today, homeowners are tilting toward modern-looking patios and one of the best ways to achieve it is with black slate paving slabs. These slabs are made from natural stones and are highly resilient. The beauty of the black slate is magnified when you use it outdoors, on the patio and it gives this space a plush and elegant appearance.
If you are wondering why you should opt for black slate paving slabs, here are some compelling reasons to convince you:
Durability
Slate is one of the strongest natural stones and it is resistant to chips, cracks, breaks, and scratches. If you maintain your black slate slabs properly, the flooring will last for decades and look great. You don’t have to worry about the black getting dull or insipid over the years.
Stylish
Black has always been a stylish color. When you install black slate paving slabs on your patio, it will make the space look more elegant. Above all, your patio will have a unique look and you don’t have to worry about your neighbors having a similar patio. This is because each strain is unique and you will have a one-of-a-kind patio that looks fresh and exclusive.
Upscale Patio Flooring: Slate is considered a high-end flooring material. While you may spend a little more compared to other flooring materials, once the black slate slabs are installed, you will realize that it not only enhances the outdoor living space but also adds value to your property.
Resistant to Water: High-quality slate slabs are resistant to water. You don’t have to worry about the slabs getting slippery. So, if you have elderly people or kids, there is no risk of them slipping and sustaining injuries.
Slate is also resistant to fire and installing it in your patio will ensure you don’t have to worry if you host a barbecue.
Sealing Black Slate Paving Slabs
For many homeowners, one of the biggest worries is the staining and scuffing of slate slabs, especially if they don’t opt for premium-grade slabs. This can easily be taken care of with the help of sealers. However, some worry that the beauty of contemporary black slate will reduce due to the sealer. This is not the case if you use a water-based clear sealer. Such a sealer will penetrate the pores of the slate forming a film to seal it. Of course, you may need multiple coats to ensure that the sealing is done right. On application, the slate will look wet and dark, but once the sealer dries, the slabs will regain their original color.
Taking Care of Your Modern Patio
While black slate slabs look stunning and make a statement, they can make dirt and dust stand out. Make sure you sweep the patio daily to prevent the original color from being masked. Sweeping also takes care of spalling, where small pieces of the slate flake off from the surface of the slate. However, this flaking ceases once the slate slabs settle in.
Do not use an abrasive or acidic cleanser. Avoid cleansers with lemon and vinegar. Instead, use a pH-neutral cleanser to gently mop the Black Granite Paving Slabs. Allow the damp flooring to air dry.
If you notice a scratch on one of the slabs, just apply some mineral oil. Usually, if the slate slabs are properly sealed, you don’t have to worry about staining. Nonetheless, if you don’t clean up spills immediately, the black slate makes a stain. You can get rid of the stain by making a paste of flour and hydrogen peroxide. Apply this paste on the stain and leave overnight. The following day remove the dried paste with a damp cloth.
The Bottom Line
Black slate paving slabs are unique and chic. It is time to transform your patio into a modern and contemporary outdoor living space, and black slate allows you to achieve this without a lot of hassle.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q- 1 How does the cost of black slate paving slabs compare to other types of patio materials like concrete or natural stone?
Ans- The cost of black slate paving slabs can vary depending on factors such as quality, thickness, size, and supplier. Generally, black slate paving slabs can be more expensive compared to concrete but may be comparable to or slightly less expensive than some natural stone options like granite or sandstone. Concrete tends to be the most budget-friendly option, while natural stone can vary widely in price depending on the type and quality.
Q- 2 What is the expected lifespan of black slate paving slabs, especially in outdoor settings subjected to various weather conditions?
Ans- Black slate paving slabs are known for their durability and can last for many years when properly installed and maintained. In outdoor settings subjected to various weather conditions, black slate paving slabs can be expected to have a lifespan of 10-30 years or even longer, depending on factors such as climate, maintenance, and installation quality.
Q-3 How eco-friendly are black slate paving slabs compared to other materials?
Ans- In terms of eco-friendliness, black slate paving slabs generally have a lower environmental impact compared to concrete, as slate is a natural stone that is quarried and cut into slabs. However, the environmental impact of slate mining and transportation should also be considered. Compared to some other natural stone options, such as sandstone or limestone, slate is often considered more eco-friendly because it requires less processing and energy during manufacturing. However, it’s important to source slate from responsible quarries and suppliers to minimize environmental impact. Overall, black slate paving slabs can be considered a relatively eco-friendly option for outdoor paving compared to materials like concrete, especially when sourced responsibly and used efficiently.
