How would it compare with porcelin or ceramic tile on an outdoor patio...I am going to be laying over an existing concrete pad, what other things do I need to consider?
2007-05-20 13:53:38 · 1 answers · asked by Tx2 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
I too have been installing all manner of tile and flooring for many years, and certainly the others who have,,,have valid suggestions. My questions to you might be is this a manufactured slate? IE: with a bottom surface like tile? or is this pieces of field stone you want to lay over a slab?
The difference is important.
If it's been manufactured/milled to have a "flat" underside then it installs like any other tile, and a 1/4 or 3/8 knife will work. If it's as textured and uneven on the underside as the top, I'd go with the heavier mortar, work in small areas at a time, try to use pieces that have the largest FLATS face up and use a level or a level on a 2x4. The end result, textured/natural looking or not, should not end up being a "trip" hazzard.
Actually when/if I install natural slate, I lay down as much mortar as I can, press the pieces into it, often just 4 at a time, so that the mortar squeezes up into the joints and run my finger to smooth it. Slate is very porous and Grout better match if you choose grout, and in the sponging/wiping up excess process the grout can stain the slate. If you use to much of a wet sponge you'll also degrade the bonding agents in the grout, Plus shred the sponges.
I do suggest a test, as I do often
"Waste" 4 pieces of slate on a sheet of plywood, trying any methods you choose, before the effort of the major install, perhaps finding answers/the best way/ and avoid dissapointment during and after the fact.
Steven Wolf
2007-05-20 15:04:51 · answer #1 · answered by DIY Doc 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Slate tile will be alot better on your floor outside than inside, just know it will still flake from time to time. Remember to use a 3/8 x 3/8 inch notch trowel when installing your slate, you want to have plenty of thinset under your flooring no matter what tile your installing. When grouting slate, don't treat it as if you were grouting a porcelain or ceramic tile. By this I mean, don't smear the grout over the entire tile/stone but, just along the grout joints because, with the slate being so dry and textured the grout will stick to slate and is hard to remove. Sealing the slate will help with this but, it is the more expensive way to go. Anyways good luck.
2007-05-20 14:40:48 · answer #2 · answered by El Toro Malo 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Outdoor Slate Tiles
2016-11-07 06:30:34 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That's actually a funny question. Slate is from the outside. Yes it holds up great.
2007-05-20 15:40:05 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It will hold up just fine. Seal it before you install it, that will make it easier for grouting. The slate will be better than porcelin because it will have more texture for better grip since it will be outside.
2007-05-20 14:16:06 · answer #5 · answered by soonerwes21 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
seal the tile and use the right mortar and you will be fine, its a natural stone in its natural environment.
2007-05-20 14:08:44 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋