Slate paving is a style that is commonly used for outside decor settings. More specifically, Welsh slate paving is one of the finest stones in the world, both structurally and in terms of its aesthetics. It encompasses a wide range of different colours, textures and finishes. Not only is it strong and resilient, it boasts immense amounts of beauty. Nowadays, Welsh slate is focussed on conducting its usefulness in a sensitive and responsible manner by maximising environmental benefits whilst minimising environmental impacts. It promotes sustainable development within all of its operations which makes Welsh slate one of the most sought after resources across the globe. With this in mind, this blog article will discuss:

  • Properties of Welsh slate paving 
  • Welsh Slate maintenance procedures 
  • Final consideration

Properties Of Welsh Slate Paving: 

  • Multifunctional 

As much as Welsh slate paving is useful for garden decor, it is probably better known as a roofing material. As such, its application for paving and hard-landscaping means it is highly multifunctional. Similarly, while Welsh slate has been used for roofing for hundreds of years, further uses for this type of paving includes cladding, walling and flooring with its aesthetic qualities being recognised by many designers across the world. The style possibilities are endless which is what makes this type of paving so demanded in today's modern day society.  

  • Easy Installation

Welsh slate is relatively easy material to lay as paving or patios. However, it is worth noting that Welsh slate can have some peculiar characteristics which should never be neglected to ensure a long-lasting and trouble-free installation. Such characteristics means that it can be difficult for water based mortar to get a good grip on the underside of the slate when it’s put down as paving. To combat this Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR) can be an easy solution to help stick the paving to the mortar so that you can have that deserted patio style you are looking for.

  • Dominating Aesthetic

As previously mentioned, Welsh slate slabs are a powerful and aesthetically pleasing stone with a fascinating colour palette. However, because of its commanding nature, when there are larger products that require a large quantity of slate paving, some of the more minute  details of a project can be lost by the scale. However, to combat this, try to use a contrasting yet complementary stone that focuses attention without distracting from the main stone material.

  • Water Resistant 

One of the other major key properties of Welsh slate slabs is its impressive levels of impermeability. The resistance to water renders slate as a popular roofing material and results in it keeping itself cleaner than many similar paving materials out there in today's market. However, this can present a challenge when attempting to have the slate fixed down firmly, securely and permanently to the ground with water based mortar as we have previously discussed. 

  • Stainless And Dirty Friendly 

Welsh slate paving is also ideal for dealing with any potential scratches or stains. Due to its immense levels of durability, it can withstand continued wear and tear. This is particularly useful for households that have larger family sizes and will have constant use from the welsh slate slabs. Not to mention, because of its beautiful colour variations, it can be manufactured in darkened shades so that any dirt from your garden doesn't stand out and become a focal point for your patio aesthetics.

  • Maintenance

As already mentioned, the impermeability characteristic of Welsh slate means that it’s much harder for dirt and grime to establish itself on a slate surface. All of which means that relatively minimal maintenance is required for properly installed slate paving for tour paving or patio designs. Generally, regular sweeping to remove accumulated litter will be sufficient enough to maintain the slate for lengthend periods of time. Similarly, any spills can be easily wiped with a simple damp cloth. This is of course that the paving is well laid and has good quality joints. Finally, another easy maintenance procedure is that an annual wash down with a garden hose should be sufficient enough to upkeep these tactile slabs.  

  • Safe With Pond Life 

A final property of Welsh slate is that it's safe to use with pond life and will not alter the PH value of your soil. This means that you can achieve a truly beautiful style that will not harm the wildlife within your pond as well as the additional benefit of not affecting the health of your soil so your plants can truly thrive in your garden.

Final Consideration

As we have discussed, slate is a great choice for constructing your patio and paving designs. Its impressive colour palette shades and historic uses has meant that this stone is one of the most popular materials in today's current market. It's easy to clean nature, hard wearing and water resistant properties also mean that this material is especially useful if you live in the UK. As such, homeowners across the country love this material as it makes their gardens vibrant and aesthetically pleasing.