Are you looking for a timeless, durable material to elevate your next DIY or home improvement project? If so, slate might be your perfect match! In fact, The RE Store currently has a stunning collection of reclaimed slate from school chalkboards and pool tables—all available for just $10 per square foot.
These unique pieces of history are in stock and ready to be reimagined in your home. Whether you’re building a custom countertop, crafting a new tabletop, or adding a touch of sophistication to your backsplash, slate is a beautiful and sustainable choice!
Why Choose Slate?
If you think granite and marble are your only options for tiling or countertops, think again. Compared to other materials, slate offers the perfect combination of elegance and practicality.
- Durable: Naturally waterproof and resistant to wear and damage.
- Sustainable: Salvaged slate reduces waste and adds unique character to your home.
- Versatile: Ideal for countertops, tabletops, backsplash tiles, and more.
Did you know? Slate is a metamorphic rock formed from shale under intense heat and pressure. Its unique grain makes it easy to split into sheets, perfect for cutting and shaping to suit your project.tense heat and pressure. Its distinct grain makes it easy to split into sheets, perfect for cutting and shaping for various DIY projects.
DIY: How to Cut Slate Like a Pro
If you want to save money and make the most of your reclaimed slate, you’re in luck. With just a few tools and a little guidance, you can cut slate yourself!
What You’ll Need:
- Circular saw
- Diamond-bit blade (find one in our tool department for under $20!)
- Safety gear: goggles, ear protection, HEPA dust mask
- Spray bottle with water
- A sturdy, mess-friendly workspace
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep Your Workspace: To begin, ensure your work area can handle the weight of slate and is okay to get wet and dirty.
- Gear Up: Next, safety first! Put on your goggles, mask, and ear protection. Cutting slate creates dust and noise, so don’t skip this step.
- Start Cutting: Once your workspace is ready, mount a diamond-bit blade to your circular saw. As you begin, have a helper spray water on the cutting edge of the blade to keep it cool and minimize dust. For best results, cut slowly and steadily, don’t worry, slate cuts like butter!
Tips for a Perfect Sanded Finish
- Sanding: To achieve smooth surfaces, start with coarse sandpaper (#40 grit) and gradually work your way up to fine grit (#100). Alternatively, wet sanding with a polishing stone is a great option to reduce dust.
- Rounding Edges: Round exposed edges to prevent chipping and create a polished look—ideal for countertops or tabletops that see heavy use.
Want a sleek, polished shine? Rub on lemon oil for a non-toxic, budget-friendly finish. It enhances slate’s deep black color and builds up a protective layer over time.
Installation Made Easy
When it comes to installation, working with slate is very similar to working with tile:
- Lay down a base of concrete board.
- Spread mortar with a trowel and set your slate pieces.
- After 24 hours, apply grout to fill the gaps.
When the dust settles you’ll have a durable, one-of-a-kind piece that will stand the test of time!
Act Fast – Limited Slate Inventory Available!
Our reclaimed slate is a hot item, so swing by The RE Store today at 2309 Meridian St., Bellingham, WA to grab yours for just $10 per square foot!