Your selection of a worktop determines how useful and how good looking your kitchen is. People seem to love slate worktops because unlike granite and marble, they offer good functionality and seem attractive.  

 Customers of slate worktops seem to appreciate the low maintenance needed to take care of them. This reflects the modern feel of home decor, yet still showcases nature’s beauty. It radiates an inviting charm and warmth that complements the kitchen’s decor.  But slate, like any other material, has its pros and cons.  You will need to weigh both sides carefully.  

 Why homeowners love slate worktops  

 1. Fading elegance and beauty  

 Complementary to both rustic and modern styled kitchens, slate’s rich grey color coupled with earthy undertones give off a timeless charm. With slate, the worktop will acquire a beautiful matte finish alongside soft touch. Unlike strong marble and granite slabs which tend to overpower spaces with their bulkiness, slate is harmonious and offers refined elegance. Depending on the region from which the stone originates, it may also possess more greens, browns, and blues.

2. Resilient and heat resistant  

The durability of slate is unique among natural materials because it does not get scratched, dented, chipped or damaged through regular use. Slate kitchen worktop is also heat resistant. Although it is safe to place hot pots on a slate work surface, it's best to use trivets.  

3. Low Maintenance  

Slate does not require a great deal of attention, which is one of its best features. Because slate is less porous than other stones, like marble, it is less likely to be stained. Most spills can be wiped away with a moist cloth. Unlike many other natural stones, slate does not require frequent sealing. In fact, it can go untreated for years if the owner prefers it to look weathered.  

4. Hygiene  

As such, it serves as an effective natural barrier to bacteria. This is particularly beneficial in kitchen sinks and areas where food is handled. Slate worktops is also easy to clean since it will not absorb oil or wine instantly, making wine or oil spill cleanup effortless.  

5. Environmentally Friendly Material  

Two of the best things about slate is that it has a long lifespan and it's environmentally friendly.

Slate can be trusted for decades because it does not require any processing and is locally sourced. Choosing slate is a small but stylish alteration that contributes towards protective efforts for nature.  

Things to Consider Before Choosing Slate  

1. Narrow Selection of Colors  

 Slate works best when paired with neutrals because its colors are more subdued. While dark colors can make things appear neat and tidy, they do not appeal to individuals who are looking for something vibrant.  

2. Brittle and sharp edges  

 Rough edges can cause the surfaces of slate to chip easily. The corners may feel sharp to touch. Discussing soft edges with your installer can help prevent these issues.  

3. Gradual Change in Size  

 Some types of slates, particularly those with rough surfaces, can exhibit slow flaking because they are layered. Though it may not perform well, it affects appearance if maintenance is neglected.

4. Cool and hard to touch

 As much as the sharp contrasts in slate make it elegant, its coolness is perfect for baking but not ideal in colder months. It wood or laminate, slate’s rough texture is far more unyielding.  

Final Thoughts  

Slate displays ageless, effortless sophistication. It is a timeless investment for a kitchen worktop as it requires minimal maintenance, and work surfaces are well crafted, they provide a classic timeless appeal and need very little care.