I am planning to put slate tiles 916 by 16) in about 600 sq feet arae on my patio over a concrete slab. 1. Is this the best stone to use for such an application/ patio area as I like the look of slate but I am concerened about maintenenace and deterioration. 2. Any other type of stone you would recommend? 3. Also, if slate tiles are installed, should any type of sealer be applied. 4. Also, it is better to use thin-set mortar or Versa Bond Flex (a flexible adhesive) to attach the slate tiles to the concrete slab. Thanks Arjun

 

Dear Arjun:

By saying slate you're saying very little – if anything at all. There are many different (and I do mean different) kinds of slate that span from dense and acceptable rocks, to slate that will actually fall apart under running water or turn into mud, and everything in between.

So which slate do you have in mind? More importantly, is your dealer be knowledgeable enough to advise you properly?...

If you decide to go with slate (or any natural stone) sealing is not only not advisable, but downright wrong altogether: even a slate that may be suitable for the application may end up developing problems because of the presence of the sealer. Outdoors installations should never be sealed.

That said, if you don't trust completely the stone knowledge of your dealer, there are porcelain tiles look-alike slate that you may want to consider.

Those are bullet proof.

As for your last question, my experience in installation of outdoors projects is limited.

 

May I ask you now to please read and e-sign our Statement of Purpose at: http://www.marblecleaning.org/purpose.htm?   :-)

Ciao and good luck,

Mauri z io Bertoli

 

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