Porcelain Tile That Looks Like Slate Vs. Real Slate Tile
November 27, 2018
Slate is one of the most iconic natural stones used in the United States. It is often used to create gorgeous outdoor living spaces, wandering paths, warm kitchens, and inviting foyers. And now, that same striking look of real slate is replicated in porcelain tile.
It is often said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Is it any wonder that new printing technologies have allowed for the creation of realistic natural stone looks to be created in porcelain tile? It isn’t that natural slate tile is passé—it’s just that for some projects, a slate-look porcelain tile may be more suitable than natural slate.
Both slate and slate-look porcelain tile can be suitable for indoor projects and outdoor projects. Take for example our Arterra collection, which was designed to bring the rustic look and character of real slate to a durable porcelain paver. In this charming outdoor space, Bluestone Arterra Pavers blend in with the natural landscape perfectly. The deep blue-grey hue are the hallmark of a real slate paver, but unlike natural slate, this poolside patio will never need sealing.
Mystique Multicolor Arterra Pavers
One of the things designers and homeowners alike love about real slate is the wide range of colors found in every tile. Real slate is character-rich, each piece having its own personality. And, as you can see here, our Mystique Multicolor Arterra Porcelain Pavers replicate the look of nature’s touch perfectly. For larger patios, another benefit of using a porcelain paver over natural slate is the price point—porcelain is a budget-friendly option that may allow you to create a larger and more grand space for less out-of-pocket.
Beton Antracite Arterra Pavers
Even more modern colors are available, including the on-trend Beton Antracite Arterra Porcelain Paver, with its clean lines and subtle inflections. This tile creates an appealing and stunning contrast to the softness of the landscape in this backyard with a view. The slate-look porcelain paver would also be a perfect choice for creating a harmonious, modern indoor/outdoor living area.
Now that we’ve covered slate-look porcelain tiles let’s take a closer look at natural slate tiles and their applications. Slate in an outdoor seating area gives instant texture, warmth, and character. In this chic patio, the designer chose classic Multi Classic Slate Tile. And, if you are concerned about cleaning slate tile flooring, don’t be. Keep it sealed properly, and cleanup is a breeze.
The most inviting designs seem to marry colors, textures, and patterns together effortlessly. Open format lofts can sometimes tend to feel a bit sterile and impersonal. A great counterbalance to that is our San Rio Rustic Slate Tile, which is quite at home among the contemporary finishes of this kitchen. The charm of the floor tile is accentuated by laying it in a diamond pattern.
Both real slate and slate-look porcelain tiles share the colors, textures, and overall appeal. They can both be used indoors, or outdoors, for flooring projects, patios, retaining walls, and more. The big differences between them are the price point and maintenance. Porcelain tiles never need sealing, and they are resistant to staining, and they are generally a more budget-friendly option than natural slate tiles.
Are porcelain or slate pavers right for you? Let's explore your options! Visit an MSI showroom, chat with us online, or contact an authorized MSI retailer in your area.
READ MORE ABOUT THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PORCELAIN AND CERAMIC TILE
Porcelain Tile Or Ceramic Tile: Which Is Best For Floor Tile?
What's The Difference? Porcelain Tile vs. Ceramic Tile
Porcelain Tile Vs. Ceramic Tile For Heavy Traffic Walkways
SHARE
PIN
TWEET
